The Secession of 1861

What a party it must have been one hundred and fifty-seven years ago! On January 26, 1861, the Secession Convention voted 113 to 17 leave the United States. The various websites I checked could not conclusively establish the new name of Louisiana. Some called it a republic while others called it a state. They do agree their independent status was short-lived, although it varies as well. Some say only nine days later they joined the Confederate States of America. Others report the CSA didn’t welcome the Cajuns in until March. A good example where history doesn’t write itself.

Regardless of how long it took Louisiana to become a fully recognized Confederate state, a sheer amount of confusion must have ensued. Changing of the flags at all government outposts must have been a daunting task. The assets of the United States were seized and either packed up shipped above the Mason-Dixon line, or procured for the new state’s use. They erased one country’s name and it replaced it with another. A delegation was sent west to Texas to convince their neighbors to join this new country. What an incredible time all this must have been.

Could another secession happen? Any state considering this would have an overwhelming task. The border to secure, and the more interstate highways exiting and entering the state would be a priority. Not only that, but the US highways that cross the former state’s borders would need to be addressed. Followed by state highways and then normal roads. Immigration offices would need to be built at each airport and rail station. New flags, currency, and documents would be needed. A massive undertaking. It would be a historic event.

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What I’m Reading – Many readers I know like to inquire what their favorite author is reading. At the end of each blog post, I’ll let you know what book I have my nose in. I may not be a published author yet, but I hope my choice of reading material inspires you to read. I’m currently reading Striptease by Carl Hiaasen. I encourage you to read a variety of topics.

One thought on “The Secession of 1861”

  1. still in Natchez—in the Mississippi most planters voted against seceding the Piney wood folks (who owned few slaves) voted for secession. During the American Civil War, the Mississippian city of Natchez remained largely undamaged. The city surrendered to Flag-Officer David G. Farragut after the fall of New Orleans in May 1862.[16] One civilian, an elderly man, was killed during the war, when in September 1863, a Union ironclad shelled the town from the river and he promptly died of a heart attack. Union soldiers sent by Ulysses S. Grant from Vicksburg occupied Natchez in 1863.

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