Mississippi Becomes the 20th State

Historical Significance and Background

In 1817, Mississippi was admitted to the Union as the 20th state of the United States. The Mississippi Territory had aimed to achieve this status since its organization on April 7, 1798.

During that time, the United States was expanding westward through its expansionist policies. These policies aimed to expand the borders of America and incorporate new territories into the Union. Mississippi's admission to the Union was a result of these expansionist policies.

Before Mississippi's admission to the Union, significant developments took place in the region. The region had been under the control of the Spanish Empire and then the French Empire. With the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the United States acquired the territories west of the Mississippi River. This acquisition brought the region under the influence of the United States and paved the way for Mississippi's admission to the Union.

Development of the Event

Organization and Administration of the Region

The Mississippi Territory was organized in 1798 and began to be governed by a territorial governor. During this period, the region became an area where U.S. laws were applied, although it was not yet a part of the United States.

Desire for Independence and Internal Struggles

The Mississippi Territory desired to be admitted to the Union as an independent state. However, this desire led to conflicts among different groups within the region. Some groups wanted to expedite the process of independence, while others advocated for more time to be given.

Admission and Statehood Process

In 1817, Mississippi was admitted to the Union and elevated to the status of a state. This admission process required the establishment of the state's political, legal, and administrative structures. Mississippi gained official statehood by preparing a democratic constitution during this process.

Consequences and Effects

Short-Term Effects

Mississippi's admission to the Union enabled the region to have more political and economic opportunities. Statehood allowed Mississippi to have a closer relationship with the federal government. The state's representatives obtained the right to vote in Congress and started working to defend the state's interests.

Long-Term Effects

Mississippi's admission to the Union became an example of the United States' territorial expansion policies as part of westward expansion. This expansion increased America's power and influence. Additionally, Mississippi's admission to the Union became intertwined with the debates on slavery. The state gained importance as a region that supported the institution of slavery.

Social and Political Changes

Mississippi's admission to the Union brought about changes in the region's social and political structure. The state adopted a democratic constitution and promoted political participation. Furthermore, Mississippi's admission to the Union accelerated the region's economic development, with the agricultural sector gaining significant importance.

Historical Significance and Relevance to the Present Day

Impacts on the Modern World

Mississippi's admission to the Union is an example of the United States' expansionist policies in its history. These expansionist policies were a strategy used to increase America's power and influence. Mississippi's admission to the Union can be seen as a result of this strategy.

Current Importance

Mississippi is now a powerful and significant state within the United States. The state plays a crucial role in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and energy. Additionally, Mississippi is recognized as a symbol of the expansionist policies in American history.

Lessons Learned

Mississippi's admission to the Union is historically a consequence of expansionist policies. This event helps us understand the United States' historical goals of expansion and territorial acquisition. Moreover, the internal struggles and conflicts during this period serve as an example of political struggles in historical processes.