The American Civil War, fought from 1861 to 1865, was a defining period in U.S. history, deeply intertwined with the issue of slavery. A crucial element in understanding the conflict is recognizing the significance of the “Border States.” These were states that bordered both the Union (the North) and the Confederacy (the South) and, crucially, permitted slavery. Understanding their geographical location and divided loyalties offers key insights into the war’s complexities.
The Border States generally include Delaware, Maryland, Kentucky, and Missouri. While West Virginia, which seceded from Virginia in 1863, is sometimes also included. Each state faced its own unique internal divisions and pressures. Delaware, though technically a slave state, had a relatively small enslaved population and remained firmly in the Union. Maryland’s strategic location, bordering Washington D.C., made it vital to the Union cause. President Lincoln took decisive action, including arresting pro-Confederate leaders, to prevent Maryland from seceding.
Kentucky declared neutrality at the outset of the war, hoping to avoid involvement. However, both Union and Confederate forces violated this neutrality, leading to its gradual alignment with the Union. The state was deeply divided, and both sides recruited soldiers from Kentucky. Missouri was also sharply divided, with significant pro-Union and pro-Confederate factions. Intense fighting occurred within the state, and a pro-Confederate government-in-exile was eventually formed. Despite these divisions, Missouri remained under Union control, although guerilla warfare persisted throughout the war.
West Virginia’s story is unique. Predominantly Unionist, the western counties of Virginia opposed secession and formed their own state, which was admitted to the Union in 1863. This showcased the fracturing effects of the war even within individual states.
The strategic importance of the Border States was immense. Losing these states would have severely hampered the Union’s war effort. They controlled crucial transportation routes, including rivers and railroads, and were important agricultural and industrial centers. More significantly, the Border States provided manpower to both sides. While many men from these states fought for the Confederacy, a substantial number joined the Union army. Had these states joined the Confederacy, the Union cause would have faced a significantly greater challenge.
Lincoln’s approach to the Border States was cautious. He initially avoided making the war solely about slavery, understanding that pushing the issue too aggressively could alienate these states and push them toward secession. His focus was on preserving the Union, and he recognized the delicate balance required to keep the Border States loyal. The Emancipation Proclamation, issued in 1863, explicitly exempted the Border States, further demonstrating Lincoln’s strategic approach.
In conclusion, the map of the Border States during the Civil War reveals a complex and nuanced picture of a nation deeply divided. These states were not simply bystanders; they were active participants in the conflict, wrestling with internal divisions and playing a crucial role in shaping the war’s outcome. Understanding their geographical location, political allegiances, and the strategic considerations surrounding them is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the American Civil War.
