What was the Vermont Republic, and what were its operational years?

The Vermont Republic, officially known as the State of Vermont during its existence, was an independent state located in New England. It operated from January 15, 1777, to March 4, 1791. This period marks its existence as a self-governing entity before its admission into the United States.

When and how was the Vermont Republic founded?

The Vermont Republic was founded on January 15, 1777, when delegates from 28 towns convened to declare independence. They asserted their separation from the land claims and jurisdictions of the British colonies of Quebec, New Hampshire, and New York. This declaration established the foundation for an independent state.

Did the Vermont Republic receive diplomatic recognition from any foreign powers?

No, the Vermont Republic did not receive diplomatic recognition from any foreign power during its fourteen years of existence. Despite its claims to sovereignty, it operated without formal acknowledgment from other nations.

What was the Vermont Republic's policy regarding slavery?

The Vermont Republic's constitution explicitly forbade adult slavery. However, it did permit the enslavement of men under the age of 21 and women under the age of 18. This policy represented an early, albeit incomplete, step towards abolition in the region.

How did the Vermont Republic engage with the American Revolution?

Many citizens of the Vermont Republic actively participated in the American Revolution on the side of the Revolutionaries. Despite this involvement, the Continental Congress did not officially recognize Vermont's independence, largely due to conflicting land claims from New York.

Why did the Continental Congress withhold recognition of Vermont's independence?

The Continental Congress did not recognize the independence of Vermont, then known as the New Hampshire Grants, primarily because of objections raised by New York. New York held conflicting property claims over the territory, which complicated any formal recognition by the Continental Congress.

What was the Haldimand Affair, and what did it involve?

The Haldimand Affair refers to secret negotiations conducted by representatives of Vermont with Frederick Haldimand, the Governor General of the Province of Quebec. These discussions, occurring after the 1781 Siege of Yorktown, explored the possibility of Vermont returning to British rule, offering generous terms for reunion. However, as American independence became increasingly apparent, Vermont ended these negotiations.

What was Vermont's ultimate goal regarding its relationship with the United States?

While operating as an independent republic, many Vermonters favored political union with the United States rather than maintaining full independence. This sentiment ultimately led to negotiations and Vermont's eventual admission into the Union.

When was Vermont admitted to the United States, and what happened to its existing laws and constitution?

Vermont was admitted into the United States as the State of Vermont on March 4, 1791. Upon admission, the constitution and laws of the independent Vermont Republic continued in effect, signifying a smooth transition of governance.

What was the official name of the Vermont Republic according to its founding documents?

The constitution and other official documents of the republic referred to the entity as the "State of Vermont." For instance, the preamble of the 1777 constitution mentions "the State of Vermont" and also refers to itself as the "Constitution of the Commonwealth."

What Latin inscription was found on Vermont's coinage, and what did it signify?

The currency used by the Vermont Republic, known as the Vermont copper, featured the Latin legend "Vermontis. Res. Publica." This inscription translates from Latin to "Republic of Vermont," clearly indicating the sovereign status claimed by the state.

What were some alternative names for the Vermont Republic prior to June 1777?

Before June 2, 1777, the territory was also known by other names. It was referred to as the Republic of New Connecticut and colloquially as the Republic of the Green Mountains.

What historical land disputes contributed to the formation of the Vermont Republic?

The formation of the Vermont Republic was influenced by overlapping land grants made by the Province of New Hampshire and the Province of New York. After 1763, settlement increased, exacerbating these disputes, which were ultimately decided by the King in favor of New York in 1764, though the area remained popularly known as the New Hampshire Grants.

Who led the Green Mountain Boys, and what was their role?

The Green Mountain Boys were a militia force from Vermont led by Ethan Allen. They supported the New Hampshire land claims and played a significant role in fighting against the British during the American Revolution, while also suppressing Loyalists within the territory.

What was Benning Wentworth's role in the settlement of the region?

Benning Wentworth, the Royal Governor of New Hampshire, initiated a land-granting scheme after 1749. He granted land to individuals as part of a plan designed to enrich himself and his family, which contributed to the complex land ownership issues in the territory.

How did the end of the French and Indian Wars impact settlement in the Vermont region?

Following the conclusion of the French and Indian Wars after 1763, security concerns eased. This led to an increase in settlement in the region, further intensifying the existing land grant disputes between New York and New Hampshire.

What was the outcome of the land grant disputes between New York and New Hampshire?

In 1764, the King decided the land grant disputes between New York and New Hampshire. The ruling granted the territory to New York, but the area continued to be popularly referred to as the New Hampshire Grants, indicating lingering regional identity and conflict.

What was the significance of the Royalton Raid in 1780?

The Royalton Raid in 1780 involved a combined British and Mohawk force attacking several Vermont settlements. This event prompted Ethan Allen and other Vermont politicians to engage in secret discussions with the British regarding a potential return to British rule.

What event officially marked the founding of the Vermont Republic?

The Vermont Republic was officially founded on January 15, 1777, when a convention of representatives from various towns within the territory declared the region independent.

What was the initial name of the republic, and when was it changed to Vermont?

Initially, upon its declaration of independence on January 15, 1777, the republic was named the Republic of New Connecticut. On June 2, 1777, the name was officially changed to "Vermont" at the suggestion of Thomas Young.

Who suggested the name "Vermont," and what is its origin?

The name "Vermont" was suggested by Thomas Young, a member of the Sons of Liberty. The name is derived from the French phrase "les verts monts," meaning "the Green Mountains."

What role did Thomas Young play in the founding of Vermont?

Thomas Young, a member of the Sons of Liberty and a figure associated with the Boston Tea Party, played a key role in the founding of Vermont. He suggested the name "Vermont" and was involved in drafting the state's constitution, which was modeled after Pennsylvania's.

What is the significance of John Greenleaf Whittier's poem 'The Song of the Vermonters, 1779'?

John Greenleaf Whittier's poem 'The Song of the Vermonters, 1779' captures the spirit of the period in ballad form. Initially published anonymously, its style was so similar to Ethan Allen's writing that it was attributed to him for nearly 60 years, highlighting the strong regional identity and defiance of the time.

What conditions did the Confederation Congress impose in 1781 regarding Vermont's admission?

In August 1781, the Confederation Congress resolved that Vermont would not be considered for admission into the Union unless it renounced its claims to territory east of the Connecticut River and west of Lake Champlain. This was a significant hurdle for Vermont's aspirations to join the United States.

When and where was the Constitution of Vermont drafted and ratified?

The Constitution of Vermont was drafted and ratified in 1777 at Elijah West's Windsor Tavern in Windsor, Vermont. This document laid the groundwork for the governance of the newly declared independent state.

On what fundamental principle was Vermont's constitution justified?

The settlers in Vermont justified their constitution on the principle that governmental authority is derived from the people. They viewed themselves as a distinct population, or "a people," entitled to the same rights of self-government as other recognized entities within the American confederacy.

Which state's constitution served as a model for Vermont's 1777 constitution?

Vermont's 1777 constitution was modeled after the radically democratic constitution of Pennsylvania. This was suggested by Thomas Young, who had collaborated with Thomas Paine and others on the 1776 Pennsylvania document.

What independent governmental functions did the Vermont Republic undertake?

During its time as an independent state, the Vermont Republic operated several key governmental functions. These included issuing its own coinage and currency, and operating its own postal service, demonstrating its capacity for self-governance.

Who operated the mint for Vermont's copper coinage, and during what years?

The mint for the Vermont copper coinage was operated by Reuben Harmon in East Rupert, Vermont. This operation took place from 1785 to 1788, producing the distinct currency of the independent republic.

What title was held by the chief executive of the Vermont Republic?

The chief executive of the Vermont Republic held the title of Governor. Thomas Chittenden served as governor for most of the republic's existence and later became the first governor of Vermont as a U.S. state.

With which foreign powers did the Vermont Republic engage in diplomatic negotiations?

The Vermont Republic engaged in diplomatic negotiations with several foreign powers, including the United States, the Netherlands, and France. These efforts aimed to secure recognition and establish international relations for the independent state.

What symbolism related to the number fourteen was present in the Vermont Republic?

The number fourteen held symbolic significance for the Vermont Republic, representing its aspiration to be the fourteenth state in the Union. This was expressed on coins minted in 1785 and 1786 with the Latin inscription "STELLA QUARTA DECIMA" (the fourteenth star), and also on the Great Seal of Vermont, designed by Ira Allen, which features a 14-branched pine tree.

When did New York's legislature consent to Vermont's statehood, and what was the condition?

The legislature of New York consented to Vermont's statehood on March 6, 1790. The condition was that a group of commissioners representing New York and a similar group representing Vermont must agree on the boundary between the two entities.

What financial agreement was made between Vermont and New York to resolve land disputes?

To resolve land patent disputes, Vermont's negotiators insisted on settling real-estate issues along with the boundary. An agreement was reached where Vermont would pay $30,000 to New York, to be distributed among New Yorkers who held land claims under New York patents.

Where and when did the convention meet to consider Vermont's application for admission to the United States?

The convention to consider Vermont's application for admission to the United States met at Bennington, Vermont, on January 6, 1791. This meeting was a crucial step towards Vermont becoming the fourteenth state.

What was the vote count for Vermont's application to join the United States?

The convention held in Bennington on January 10, 1791, approved a resolution to apply for admission to the United States with a decisive vote of 105 in favor and only 2 against.

On what date was Vermont officially admitted to the Union?

Vermont was officially admitted to the Union on March 4, 1791. This date marked the end of its period as an independent republic and its incorporation into the United States.

What is unique about Vermont's admission act into the United States?

Vermont's admission act is notable for being the shortest of all state admissions. Furthermore, Vermont is the only state admitted without any conditions, either those prescribed by Congress or those imposed by the state from which it was carved (New York).

What is celebrated in Vermont on March 4th?

March 4th is celebrated in Vermont as Vermont Day. This commemorates the date in 1791 when Vermont was admitted to the Union as the 14th state.

Which groups supported Vermont's admission to the Union?

Several groups supported Vermont's admission to the Union. These included the Northern states, the smaller states concerned about the influence of large land grants held by other states, and states that were themselves concerned about the impact of sea-to-sea grants.

How did the 1793 Vermont state constitution relate to earlier constitutions?

The 1793 Vermont state constitution made relatively few changes to the preceding 1786 constitution, which itself succeeded the 1777 constitution. It retained many of the original principles, including the separation of powers, and remains in force today with several amendments.

What was the role of William Samuel Johnson in representing Vermont's interests?

William Samuel Johnson, who represented Connecticut, was engaged by the Vermont General Assembly to promote Vermont's interests before the Continental Congress. In 1785, Vermont's General Assembly granted Johnson title to the former King's College Tract as compensation for his representation.

What was the meaning of 'les verts monts' in French?

'Les verts monts' is a French phrase that translates to 'the Green Mountains.' This is the origin of the name 'Vermont'.

What was the 'Vermont copper'?

The 'Vermont copper' was the currency issued by the independent Vermont Republic. Its mint, operated by Reuben Harmon in East Rupert, produced these coins between 1785 and 1788.

What does the Great Seal of Vermont, designed by Ira Allen, feature?

The Great Seal of Vermont, designed by Ira Allen, centrally features a pine tree with 14 branches. This symbolism relates to the state's aspiration to be the fourteenth state in the Union.

What historical era is associated with the Vermont Republic?

The Vermont Republic is associated with the Early Modern period of history.

What was the common demonym for inhabitants of the Vermont Republic?

The common demonym for inhabitants of the Vermont Republic was "Vermonter."

What languages were commonly spoken in the Vermont Republic?

The common languages spoken in the Vermont Republic were English and French.

What were the capitals of the Vermont Republic at different times?

The capital of the Vermont Republic changed over time. It was Westminster in 1777, then Windsor from 1777 to 1784, and finally Castleton from 1784 to 1791.

What was the form of government in the Vermont Republic?

The Vermont Republic was a republic with an executive governor, indicating a representative form of government with a distinct executive branch.

What historical entities bordered the Vermont Republic, according to the map reference?

According to the map reference, the Republic of Vermont bordered New York, New Hampshire, and Quebec.

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The Vermont Republic

Sovereign Entity

The Vermont Republic, officially known as the State of Vermont, was an independent state in New England that existed from January 15, 1777, to March 4, 1791. It declared independence from the land claims and jurisdictions of the British colonies of New York, New Hampshire, and Quebec.

Unrecognized Independence

Despite its de facto independence and participation in the American Revolution, the Republic never received formal diplomatic recognition from any foreign power. The Continental Congress also withheld recognition due to conflicting property claims from New York.

Abolitionist Stance

A significant aspect of the Republic's constitution was the prohibition of adult slavery. While allowances were made for the enslavement of men under 21 and women under 18, this marked an early step towards abolition in the region.

Historical Context

Land Claims and Settlement

Following the French and Indian Wars, settlement in the region, known as the New Hampshire Grants, increased. Disputes arose when New York asserted its jurisdiction, leading to conflicts with settlers who favored New Hampshire's grants. The Green Mountain Boys, led by Ethan Allen, were instrumental in defending these claims and resisting New York authority.

Diplomatic Maneuvers

Facing a lack of recognition from the Continental Congress and territorial disputes, Vermont engaged in complex negotiations. These included secret discussions with British North America (Governor General Frederick Haldimand) regarding a potential return to British rule, as well as diplomatic overtures to France and the Netherlands.

Founding Principles

Declaration of Independence

On January 15, 1777, delegates from 28 towns convened to declare independence. Initially named the Republic of New Connecticut, the name was soon changed to Vermont, derived from the French "les verts monts" (the Green Mountains), a suggestion attributed to Thomas Young.

The 1777 Constitution

Modeled on Pennsylvania's radical constitution, Vermont's founding document established a unicameral legislature and a supreme executive council. It was ratified at Elijah West's Windsor Tavern, a site often referred to as the birthplace of Vermont.

Established a unicameral legislature (House of Representatives of the Freemen).
Created an executive council rather than a single governor initially, though Thomas Chittenden later served as governor.
Guaranteed freedom of speech, religion, and assembly.
Prohibited adult slavery.
Affirmed that governmental authority derives from the people.

Independent Governance

Distinctive Currency

During its period of independence, the Vermont Republic issued its own coinage, known as the Vermont copper. Minted from 1785 to 1788, these coins often featured the Latin inscription "VERMONTIS. RES. PUBLICA." (Republic of Vermont).

Public Services

The Republic operated its own postal service and maintained its own government structures, including a legislature and executive leadership. Thomas Chittenden served as governor for most of this period, later becoming the first governor of the state of Vermont.

Population Growth

The population of the Vermont Republic experienced significant growth during its existence, reflecting the ongoing settlement and expansion of the era.

Year	Population	% Change
1770	10,000	—
1780	47,620	+376.2%
1790	85,425	+79.4%

Source: Colonial and Pre-Federal Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau.

Symbols of Identity

The Great Seal

Designed by Ira Allen, the Great Seal of Vermont centrally features a 14-branched pine tree, symbolizing the state's aspirations and unity. The motto "Freedom and Unity" is also associated with the Republic.

"Stella Quarta Decima"

Coins minted in 1785 and 1786 bore the Latin inscription "STELLA QUARTA DECIMA," meaning "the fourteenth star." This symbolism reflected Vermont's desire to be recognized as the fourteenth state in the nascent United States.

Path to Statehood

Negotiating Admission

After years of independent governance, Vermont negotiated its admission into the United States. New York's legislature consented to Vermont's statehood in March 1790, contingent on boundary agreements and a payment of $30,000 to New York landowners with prior claims.

Joining the Union

On January 10, 1791, a Vermont convention approved an application for statehood. The United States Congress admitted Vermont into the Union on March 4, 1791, making it the 14th state. This admission was unique for its lack of conditions imposed by the federal government or New York.

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References

Left office to become US state governor.

Mello, Robert, Moses Robinson and the Founding of Vermont, Vermont Historical Society, 2014, page 264

Paul W. Gates, History of public land law development, p. 286. Public Land Law Review Commission, Washington D.C. 1968

A full list of references for this article are available at the Vermont Republic Wikipedia page

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The Green Mountain Republic

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The Vermont Republic 📜

🌍 Sovereign Entity

🚫 Unrecognized Independence

⚖️ Abolitionist Stance

Historical Context ⏳

🗺️ Land Claims and Settlement

🤝 Diplomatic Maneuvers

Founding Principles 🚩

✍️ Declaration of Independence

📜 The 1777 Constitution

Independent Governance 🏛️

💰 Distinctive Currency

✉️ Public Services

📊 Population Growth

Symbols of Identity ⭐

🌳 The Great Seal

🌟 "Stella Quarta Decima"

Path to Statehood 🔗

🇺🇸 Negotiating Admission

✅ Joining the Union

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The Vermont Republic

Sovereign Entity

Unrecognized Independence

Abolitionist Stance

Historical Context

Land Claims and Settlement

Diplomatic Maneuvers

Founding Principles

Declaration of Independence

The 1777 Constitution

Independent Governance

Distinctive Currency

Public Services

Population Growth

Symbols of Identity

The Great Seal

"Stella Quarta Decima"

Path to Statehood

Negotiating Admission

Joining the Union

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice