Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide

Changes from October 6, 2023 to December 5, 2023

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Admission of States to the Union:
~~October 6, 2023~~
~~A Historical~~ A Historical December 5, 2023 Reference Guide
Ben Leubsdorf
The Constitution allows Congress to admit “New States ... into this Union.” By ratifying the The Constitution allows Congress to admit “New States ... into this Union.” By ratifying the
Research Librarian Research Librarian
Constitution in 1787-1790, the 13 original states—which declared independence from Great Constitution in 1787-1790, the 13 original states—which declared independence from Great

Britain in 1776 and initially united under the Articles of Confederation—joined the new federal Britain in 1776 and initially united under the Articles of Confederation—joined the new federal
Kathleen E. Marchsteiner
government. An additional 37 states joined between 1791 (Vermont) and 1959 (Alaska and government. An additional 37 states joined between 1791 (Vermont) and 1959 (Alaska and
Senior Research Librarian Senior Research Librarian
Hawaii). Each star on the national flag represents one of the 50 states. Hawaii). Each star on the national flag represents one of the 50 states.

This report provides historical information about each state’s journey to statehood with a focus This report provides historical information about each state’s journey to statehood with a focus
Carol Wilson
on the role of Congress. A chronology describes selected events for each state such as the on the role of Congress. A chronology describes selected events for each state such as the
Senior Research Librarian Senior Research Librarian
formation of a territorial government; federal legislation that enabled residents to prepare for formation of a territorial government; federal legislation that enabled residents to prepare for

statehood; the drafting and adoption of a state constitution; and federal legislation that admitted statehood; the drafting and adoption of a state constitution; and federal legislation that admitted
the new state into the Union. Citations point, in general, to primary legislative sources such as the the new state into the Union. Citations point, in general, to primary legislative sources such as the

Congressional Record, , House Journal, and , and Senate Journal. .
The five tables in this report summarize key information across all 50 states: admission order and date, territorial law (if any), The five tables in this report summarize key information across all 50 states: admission order and date, territorial law (if any),
enabling law (if any), admission law, and the outcome of state-level ratification or referendum votes (if any). enabling law (if any), admission law, and the outcome of state-level ratification or referendum votes (if any).
This report does not address the history of a territory before its acquisition by the United States, policy or legal questions This report does not address the history of a territory before its acquisition by the United States, policy or legal questions
related to statehood, potential future action by Congress, the status of current U.S. territories, or statehood-related proposals related to statehood, potential future action by Congress, the status of current U.S. territories, or statehood-related proposals
that have not become law. that have not become law.
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Introduction
Overview
The Constitution allows Congress to admit “New States ... into this Union.”1 Congress has The Constitution allows Congress to admit “New States ... into this Union.”1 Congress has
exercised this power 37 times since 1791, most recently in 1959. exercised this power 37 times since 1791, most recently in 1959.
The 13 original colonies, which declared independence from Great Britain in 1776 and initially The 13 original colonies, which declared independence from Great Britain in 1776 and initially
united under the Articles of Confederation, joined the new federal government by ratifying the united under the Articles of Confederation, joined the new federal government by ratifying the
Constitution in 1787-1790. Vermont was the next state to join the Union, in 1791, followed by Constitution in 1787-1790. Vermont was the next state to join the Union, in 1791, followed by
Kentucky in 1792. Kentucky in 1792.
As the United States expanded across North America, many regions were organized as As the United States expanded across North America, many regions were organized as territories, ,
beginning with the Northwest Territory.2 Tennessee, in 1796, was the first state to join the Union beginning with the Northwest Territory.2 Tennessee, in 1796, was the first state to join the Union
following a period of territorial government (as the Southwest Territory). Six states joined the following a period of territorial government (as the Southwest Territory). Six states joined the
Union without first being organized as a territory: California, Kentucky, Maine, Texas, Vermont, Union without first being organized as a territory: California, Kentucky, Maine, Texas, Vermont,
and West Virginia. and West Virginia.
The 1912 admission of Arizona and New Mexico completed the The 1912 admission of Arizona and New Mexico completed the Lower 48 contiguous states contiguous states
stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west. Alaska and Hawaii stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west. Alaska and Hawaii
both achieved statehood in 1959, taking the nation to its current count of 50 states—each both achieved statehood in 1959, taking the nation to its current count of 50 states—each
represented by a star on the national flag.3 represented by a star on the national flag.3
About This Report
This report provides selected historical information about each state’s journey to statehood with a This report provides selected historical information about each state’s journey to statehood with a
focus on the role of Congress. focus on the role of Congress.
For each state, a chronology (in the form of a bulleted list) describes selected events in the history For each state, a chronology (in the form of a bulleted list) describes selected events in the history
of its admission (seeof its admission (see “Statehood Timelines”). These events may include acquisition of the region ). These events may include acquisition of the region
by the U.S. government, the creation of a territorial government,4 federal legislation that enabled by the U.S. government, the creation of a territorial government,4 federal legislation that enabled
residents to prepare for statehood, the drafting of a state constitution, any state-level referendum residents to prepare for statehood, the drafting of a state constitution, any state-level referendum
or ratification votes related to statehood, federal legislation to admit the new state into the Union, or ratification votes related to statehood, federal legislation to admit the new state into the Union,
and a presidential proclamation to make its admission official. A shaded box for each state and a presidential proclamation to make its admission official. A shaded box for each state
provides key dates and provides key dates and United States Statutes at Large citations, when applicable. citations, when applicable.
Some states took similar paths to admission, though, in general, those paths have varied Some states took similar paths to admission, though, in general, those paths have varied
considerably. Although this report focuses on Congress’s role in the admission of states, the considerably. Although this report focuses on Congress’s role in the admission of states, the
statehood timelines do not describe every legislative action taken during the admission process, statehood timelines do not describe every legislative action taken during the admission process,
and they generally omit proposals or bills that did not become law.and they generally omit proposals or bills that did not become law. 5 Moreover, the timelines do 5 Moreover, the timelines do
not typically discuss the details of legislative measures, such as conditions Congress may have not typically discuss the details of legislative measures, such as conditions Congress may have

1 Article IV, Section 3, Clause 1. 1 Article IV, Section 3, Clause 1.
2 Congress, operating under the Articles of Confederation, established the Territory of the United States North West of 2 Congress, operating under the Articles of Confederation, established the Territory of the United States North West of
the River Ohio in 1787. It included all or part of six future states: Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and the River Ohio in 1787. It included all or part of six future states: Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and
Wisconsin. See the Wisconsin. See the “Ohio” timeline for details. timeline for details.
3 4 U.S.C. §§1-2. 3 4 U.S.C. §§1-2.
4 Many territories were created out of existing territories, and territorial boundaries changed over time. Illinois 4 Many territories were created out of existing territories, and territorial boundaries changed over time. Illinois
Territory, for example, was initially part of the Northwest Territory and then part of Indiana Territory. For simplicity, Territory, for example, was initially part of the Northwest Territory and then part of Indiana Territory. For simplicity,
the timelines in this report generally omit territorial affiliations before legislation that created a separate and distinct the timelines in this report generally omit territorial affiliations before legislation that created a separate and distinct
territory that would later achieve statehood. territory that would later achieve statehood.
5 For example, the 5 For example, the “Hawaii” timeline does not include multiple attempts to achieve statehood before 1959. timeline does not include multiple attempts to achieve statehood before 1959.
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placed on a state’s admission; actions taken by territorial legislatures or governors; or the wording placed on a state’s admission; actions taken by territorial legislatures or governors; or the wording
of ballot questions related to statehood. of ballot questions related to statehood.
This report includes five tables summarizing key information from the individual timelines: This report includes five tables summarizing key information from the individual timelines:
• • Table 1 shows the dates and order of admission for each state. shows the dates and order of admission for each state.
• • Table 2 describes legislation that established territorial governments, if any. describes legislation that established territorial governments, if any.
• • Table 3 describes enabling legislation that allowed territories to prepare for describes enabling legislation that allowed territories to prepare for
statehood, if any. statehood, if any.
• • Table 4 describes legislation that admitted states to the Union, if any. describes legislation that admitted states to the Union, if any.
• • Table 5 describes popular or convention votes on statehood or related matters, describes popular or convention votes on statehood or related matters,
such as ratification of a state constitution in preparation for admission, if any. such as ratification of a state constitution in preparation for admission, if any.
With the exception of the information provided in With the exception of the information provided in Table 1, available information on the states ailable information on the states
varies according to the specific path to statehood for each state. The availability of this varies according to the specific path to statehood for each state. The availability of this
information for each state is noted in the tables. information for each state is noted in the tables.
In general, this report does not discuss the history or status of a territory before its acquisition by In general, this report does not discuss the history or status of a territory before its acquisition by
the United States, nor does it address policy or legal questions related to statehood, potential the United States, nor does it address policy or legal questions related to statehood, potential
future action by Congress, or the status of current U.S. territories and the District of Columbia.6 future action by Congress, or the status of current U.S. territories and the District of Columbia.6
Sources, Compilations, and Additional Resources
Many footnotes in this report point to primary legislative sources such as the Many footnotes in this report point to primary legislative sources such as the Journal of the
House of Representatives of the United States (the (the House Journal) and the ) and the Journal of the Senate
of the United States of America (the (the Senate Journal). Also cited are the ). Also cited are the Congressional Record and and
two of its predecessor publications: two of its predecessor publications: The Debates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United
States (the (the Annals of Congress) and the ) and the Congressional Globe.7 .7
Some citations point to multivolume compilations of historical documents, such as Some citations point to multivolume compilations of historical documents, such as The
Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution;8 ;8 The Territorial Papers of the United
States;9 and ;9 and The Federal and State Constitutions, Colonial Charters, and Other Organic Laws of
the States, Territories, and Colonies Now or Heretofore Forming the United States of America.10 .10
In addition, this report cites secondary sources such as scholarly books and journal articles, as In addition, this report cites secondary sources such as scholarly books and journal articles, as
well as reference materials such as encyclopedias and research guides. well as reference materials such as encyclopedias and research guides.
Almost all of the primary sources and compilations cited in this report are available online. The Almost all of the primary sources and compilations cited in this report are available online. The
Library of Congress’s Library of Congress’s A Century of Lawmaking for a New Nation collection contains collection contains
congressional and legal records for 1774 to 1875.11 Other freelycongressional and legal records for 1774 to 1875.11 Other freely- available repositories include the available repositories include the

6 Information about these subjects is available in other CRS products, including CRS In Focus IF11792, 6 Information about these subjects is available in other CRS products, including CRS In Focus IF11792, Statehood
Process and Political Status of U.S. Territories: Brief Policy Background, by R. Sam Garrett; CRS Report R44721, , by R. Sam Garrett; CRS Report R44721,
Political Status of Puerto Rico: Brief Background and Recent Developments for Congress, by R. Sam Garrett; CRS In , by R. Sam Garrett; CRS In
Focus IF11443, Focus IF11443, District of Columbia Statehood and Voting Representation, by Joseph V. Jaroscak; and CRS Report , by Joseph V. Jaroscak; and CRS Report
R47101, R47101, DC Statehood: Constitutional Considerations for Proposed Legislation, by Mainon A. Schwartz. , by Mainon A. Schwartz.
7 See CRS Report R43434, 7 See CRS Report R43434, Policy and Legislative Research for Congressional Staff: Finding Documents, Analysis,
News, and Training, by Sarah W. Caldwell, Ellen M. Lechman, and Michele L. Malloy. , by Sarah W. Caldwell, Ellen M. Lechman, and Michele L. Malloy.
8 Bibliographic information is available from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Center for the Study of the 8 Bibliographic information is available from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Center for the Study of the
American Constitution at https://csac.history.wisc.edu. American Constitution at https://csac.history.wisc.edu.
9 Twenty-eight volumes, printed by the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO), 1934-1975. 9 Twenty-eight volumes, printed by the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO), 1934-1975.
10 Seven volumes, edited by Francis Newton Thorpe and printed by GPO, 1909. 10 Seven volumes, edited by Francis Newton Thorpe and printed by GPO, 1909.
11 Available at https://www.loc.gov/collections/century-of-lawmaking. 11 Available at https://www.loc.gov/collections/century-of-lawmaking.
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Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide

American Presidency Project database, maintained by the University of California, Santa American Presidency Project database, maintained by the University of California, Santa
Barbara;12 the Government Publishing Office’s (GPO’s) GovInfo website;13 HathiTrust’s database Barbara;12 the Government Publishing Office’s (GPO’s) GovInfo website;13 HathiTrust’s database
of historical books and government publications;14 the Law Library of Congress website;15 LLMC of historical books and government publications;14 the Law Library of Congress website;15 LLMC
Digital’s collection of historical legal materials;16 and Yale Law School’s Avalon Project Digital’s collection of historical legal materials;16 and Yale Law School’s Avalon Project
collection.17 Subscription-only databases, such as ProQuest Congressional, also contain relevant collection.17 Subscription-only databases, such as ProQuest Congressional, also contain relevant
content such as legislative documents. content such as legislative documents.
Additional information about territories and statehood is available in reference resources such as Additional information about territories and statehood is available in reference resources such as
Prestatehood Legal Materials: A Fifty-State Research Guide, Including New York City and the
District of Columbia18 and 18 and The Uniting States: The Story of Statehood for the Fifty United
States.19 .19
Members and congressional staff can contact CRS for assistance locating research materials, Members and congressional staff can contact CRS for assistance locating research materials,
including materials about a specific state.including materials about a specific state.

~~12 Available at https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu.~~
~~13 Available at https://www.govinfo.gov.~~
~~14 Available at https://www.hathitrust.org.~~
~~15 Available at https://www.loc.gov/research-centers/law-library-of-congress.~~
~~16 Available at https://llmc.com.~~
~~17 Available at https://avalon.law.yale.edu.~~
~~18Two volumes, edited by Michael Chiorazzi and Marguerite Most (New York: The Haworth Information Press, 2005).~~
~~19 Three volumes, edited by Benjamin F. Shearer (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 2004).~~
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

Summary Tables
Table 1. Chronological List of State Admissions
Order
State
Admission Date
1 1
Delaware Delaware
December 7, 1787 December 7, 1787
2 2
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
December 12, 1787 December 12, 1787
3 3
New Jersey New Jersey
December 18, 1787 December 18, 1787
4 4
Georgia Georgia
January 2, 1788 January 2, 1788
5 5
Connecticut Connecticut
January 9, 1788 January 9, 1788
6 6
Massachusetts Massachusetts
February 6, 1788 February 6, 1788
7 7
Maryland Maryland
April 28, 1788 April 28, 1788
8 8
South Carolina South Carolina
May 23, 1788 May 23, 1788
9 9
New Hampshire New Hampshire
June 21, 1788 June 21, 1788
10 10
Virginia Virginia
June 25, 1788 June 25, 1788
11 11
New York New York
July 26, 1788 July 26, 1788
12 12
North Carolina North Carolina
November 21, 1789 November 21, 1789
13 13
Rhode Island Rhode Island
May 29, 1790 May 29, 1790
14 14
Vermont Vermont
March 4, 1791 March 4, 1791
15 15
Kentucky Kentucky
June 1, 1792 June 1, 1792
16 16
Tennessee Tennessee
June 1, 1796 June 1, 1796
17 17
Ohio Ohio
March 1, 1803 March 1, 1803
18 18
Louisiana Louisiana
April 30, 1812 April 30, 1812
19 19
Indiana Indiana
December 11, 1816 December 11, 1816
20 20
Mississippi Mississippi
December 10, 1817 December 10, 1817
21 21
Il inois Il inois
December 3, 1818 December 3, 1818
22 22
Alabama Alabama
December 14, 1819 December 14, 1819
23 23
Maine Maine
March 15, 1820 March 15, 1820
24 24
Missouri Missouri
August 10, 1821 August 10, 1821
25 25
Arkansas Arkansas
June 15, 1836 June 15, 1836
12 Available at https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu. 13 Available at https://www.govinfo.gov. 14 Available at https://www.hathitrust.org. 15 Available at https://www.loc.gov/research-centers/law-library-of-congress. 16 Available at https://llmc.com. 17 Available at https://avalon.law.yale.edu. 18Two volumes, edited by Michael Chiorazzi and Marguerite Most (New York: The Haworth Information Press, 2005). 19 Three volumes, edited by Benjamin F. Shearer (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 2004). Congressional Research Service 3 link to page 13 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Order State Admission Date 26 26
Michigan Michigan
January 26, 1837 January 26, 1837
27 27
Florida Florida
March 3, 1845 March 3, 1845
28 28
Texas Texas
December 29, 1845 December 29, 1845
29 29
Iowa Iowa
December 28, 1846 December 28, 1846
30 30
Wisconsin Wisconsin
May 29, 1848 May 29, 1848
31 31
California California
September 9, 1850 September 9, 1850
32 32
Minnesota Minnesota
May 11, 1858 May 11, 1858
33 33
Oregon Oregon
February 14, 1859 February 14, 1859
34 34
Kansas Kansas
January 29, 1861 January 29, 1861
35 35
West Virginia West Virginia
June 20, 1863 June 20, 1863
36 36
Nevada Nevada
October 31, 1864 October 31, 1864
37 37
Nebraska Nebraska
March 1, 1867 March 1, 1867
38 38
Colorado Colorado
August 1, 1876 August 1, 1876
39 39
North Dakota North Dakota
November 2, 1889 November 2, 1889
40 40
South Dakota South Dakota
November 2, 1889 November 2, 1889
41 41
Montana Montana
November 8, 1889 November 8, 1889
42 42
Washington Washington
November 11, 1889 November 11, 1889
43 43
Idaho Idaho
July 3, 1890 July 3, 1890
44 44
Wyoming Wyoming
July 10, 1890 July 10, 1890
45 45
Utah Utah
January 4, 1896 January 4, 1896
46 46
Oklahoma Oklahoma
November 16, 1907 November 16, 1907
47 47
New Mexico New Mexico
January 6, 1912 January 6, 1912
48 48
Arizona Arizona
February 14, 1912 February 14, 1912
49 49
Alaska Alaska
January 3, 1959 January 3, 1959
50 50
Hawaii Hawaii
August 21, 1959 August 21, 1959
Sources: Benjamin F. Shearer (ed.), Benjamin F. Shearer (ed.), The Uniting States: The Story of Statehood for the Fifty United States, 3 vols. , 3 vols.
(Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 2004); Michael Chiorazzi and Marguerite Most (eds.), (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 2004); Michael Chiorazzi and Marguerite Most (eds.), Prestatehood Legal
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Materials: A Fifty-State Research Guide, Including New York City and the District of Columbia, 2 vols. (New York: The , 2 vols. (New York: The
Haworth Information Press, 2005). Haworth Information Press, 2005).
Notes: Admission date for the 13 original states indicates the date states ratified the U.S. Constitution. For Admission date for the 13 original states indicates the date states ratified the U.S. Constitution. For
other states, admission date indicates the date that their admission became effective. In some cases, this differs other states, admission date indicates the date that their admission became effective. In some cases, this differs
from the date of presidential approval listed infrom the date of presidential approval listed in Table 4 (e.g., if admission was finalized by a presidential (e.g., if admission was finalized by a presidential
proclamation authorized by the admission law, or if the admission law specified a specific date to take effect). proclamation authorized by the admission law, or if the admission law specified a specific date to take effect).
Table 2. Territorial Acts
Enacted legislation that established a territorial government Enacted legislation that established a territorial government
State
(Territory, if
Presidential
Name Differs)
House Passage
Senate Passage
Approval
Citation(s)
Alabama Alabama
March 3, 1817 March 3, 1817
Feb. 21, 1817 Feb. 21, 1817
March 3, 1817 March 3, 1817
3 Stat. 371 3 Stat. 371
Alaska Alaska
Aug. 20, 1912 Aug. 20, 1912
Aug. 17, 1912 Aug. 17, 1912
Aug. 24, 1912 Aug. 24, 1912
37 Stat. 512 37 Stat. 512
62 H.R. 38 62 H.R. 38
Arizona Arizona
May 8, 1862 May 8, 1862
Feb. 20, 1863 Feb. 20, 1863
Feb. 24, 1863 Feb. 24, 1863
12 Stat. 664 12 Stat. 664
25-12 25-12
37 H.R. 357 37 H.R. 357
Arkansas Arkansas
Feb. 20, 1819 Feb. 20, 1819
March 1, 1819 March 1, 1819
March 2, 1819 March 2, 1819
3 Stat. 493 3 Stat. 493
California California
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Colorado Colorado
Feb. 18, 1861 Feb. 18, 1861
Feb. 26, 1861 Feb. 26, 1861
Feb. 28, 1861 Feb. 28, 1861
12 Stat. 172 12 Stat. 172
90-44 90-44
26-18 26-18
36 S. 366 36 S. 366
Connecticut Connecticut
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Delaware Delaware
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Congressional Research Service 4 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 11 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide State (Territory, if Presidential Name Differs) House Passage Senate Passage Approval Citation(s) Florida Florida
March 27, 1822 March 27, 1822
March 27, 1822 March 27, 1822
March 30, 1822 March 30, 1822
3 Stat. 654 3 Stat. 654
Unanimou Unanimousa
Georgia Georgia
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Hawaii Hawaii
Apr. 27, 1900 Apr. 27, 1900
Apr. 25, 1900 Apr. 25, 1900
Apr. 30, 1900 Apr. 30, 1900
31 Stat. 141 31 Stat. 141
138-54 138-54
56 S. 222 56 S. 222
Idaho Idaho
March 3, 1863 March 3, 1863
March 3, 1863 March 3, 1863
March 3, 1863 March 3, 1863
12 Stat. 808 12 Stat. 808
65- 65-33a
25-12 25-12
37 H.R. 738 37 H.R. 738
Il inois Il inois
Jan. 18, 1809 Jan. 18, 1809
Jan. 31, 1809 Jan. 31, 1809
Feb. 3, 1809 Feb. 3, 1809
2 Stat. 514 2 Stat. 514
69-37 69-37
Indiana Indiana
May 3, 1800 May 3, 1800
May 5, 1800 May 5, 1800
May 7, 1800 May 7, 1800
2 Stat. 58 2 Stat. 58
Iowa Iowa
June 6, 1838 June 6, 1838
June 6, 1838 June 6, 1838
June 12, 1838 June 12, 1838
5 Stat. 235 5 Stat. 235
118-51 118-51
25 S. 269 25 S. 269
Kansas Kansas
May 22, 1854 May 22, 1854
May 25, 1854 May 25, 1854
May 30, 1854 May 30, 1854
10 Stat. 277 10 Stat. 277
113-100 113-100
35-13 35-13
33 H.R. 236 33 H.R. 236
Kentucky Kentucky
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Louisiana Louisiana
March 23, 1804 March 23, 1804
March 23, 1804 March 23, 1804
March 26, 1804 March 26, 1804
2 Stat. 283 2 Stat. 283
(Orleans Territory) (Orleans Territory)
51-45 51-45
15-9 15-9
Maine Maine
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Maryland Maryland
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
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~~State~~
~~(Territory, if~~
~~Presidential~~
~~Name Differs)~~
~~House Passage~~
~~Senate Passage~~
~~Approval~~
~~Citation(s)~~
Massachusetts Massachusetts
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Michigan Michigan
Jan. 7, 1805 Jan. 7, 1805
Jan. 8, 1805 Jan. 8, 1805
Jan. 11, 1805 Jan. 11, 1805
2 Stat. 309 2 Stat. 309
Minnesota Minnesota
March 3, 1849 March 3, 1849
March 1, 1849 March 1, 1849
March 3, 1849 March 3, 1849
9 Stat. 403 9 Stat. 403
107-70 107-70
30-18 30-18
30 S. 152 30 S. 152
Mississippi Mississippi
March 27, 1798 March 27, 1798
March 29, 1798 March 29, 1798
Apr. 7, 1798 Apr. 7, 1798
1 Stat. 549 1 Stat. 549
Missouri Missouri
May 21, 1812 May 21, 1812
May 21, 1812 May 21, 1812
June 4, 1812 June 4, 1812
2 Stat. 743 2 Stat. 743
Montana Montana
May 20, 1864 May 20, 1864
May 19, 1864 May 19, 1864
May 26, 1864 May 26, 1864
13 Stat. 85 13 Stat. 85
102-26 102-26
26-13 26-13
38 H.R. 15 38 H.R. 15
Nebraska Nebraska
May 22, 1854 May 22, 1854
May 25, 1854 May 25, 1854
May 30, 1854 May 30, 1854
10 Stat. 277 10 Stat. 277
113-100 113-100
35-13 35-13
33 H.R. 236 33 H.R. 236
Nevada Nevada
March 1, 1861 March 1, 1861
Feb. 26, 1861 Feb. 26, 1861
March 2, 1861 March 2, 1861
12 Stat. 209 12 Stat. 209
92- 92-52b
36 S. 563 36 S. 563
New Hampshire New Hampshire
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
New Jersey New Jersey
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
New Mexico New Mexico
Sept. 6, 1850 Sept. 6, 1850
Sept. 9, 1850 Sept. 9, 1850
Sept. 9, 1850 Sept. 9, 1850
9 Stat. 446 9 Stat. 446
108-97 108-97
31-10 31-10
31 S. 307 31 S. 307
New York New York
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
North Carolina North Carolina
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Congressional Research Service 5 link to page 11 link to page 11 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide State (Territory, if Presidential Name Differs) House Passage Senate Passage Approval Citation(s) North Dakota North Dakota
March 1, 1861 March 1, 1861
Feb. 26, 1861 Feb. 26, 1861
March 2, 1861 March 2, 1861
12 Stat. 239 12 Stat. 239
(Dakota Territory) (Dakota Territory)
36 S. 562 36 S. 562
Ohio Ohio
Aug. 5, 1789 Aug. 5, 1789
Aug. 4, 1789 Aug. 4, 1789
Aug. 7, 1789 Aug. 7, 1789
1 Stat. 50 1 Stat. 50
(Northwest (Northwest
Territory) Territory)
Oklahoma Oklahoma
Apr. 21, 1890 Apr. 21, 1890
Apr. 23, 1890 Apr. 23, 1890
May 2, 1890 May 2, 1890
26 Stat. 81 26 Stat. 81
50-5 50-5
51 S. 895 51 S. 895
Oregon Oregon
Aug. 2, 1848 Aug. 2, 1848
Aug. 12, 1848 Aug. 12, 1848
Aug. 14, 1848 Aug. 14, 1848
9 Stat. 323 9 Stat. 323
128- 128-71b
31-23 and 29-25 31-23 and 29-25
30 H.R. 201 30 H.R. 201
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Rhode Island Rhode Island
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
South Carolina South Carolina
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
South Dakota South Dakota
March 1, 1861 March 1, 1861
Feb. 26, 1861 Feb. 26, 1861
March 2, 1861 March 2, 1861
12 Stat. 239 12 Stat. 239
(Dakota Territory) (Dakota Territory)
36 S. 562 36 S. 562
Tennessee Tennessee
May 5, 1790 May 5, 1790
Apr. 27, 1790 Apr. 27, 1790
May 26, 1790 May 26, 1790
1 Stat. 123 1 Stat. 123
(Southwest (Southwest
Territory) Territory)
Texas Texas
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Utah Utah
Sept. 7, 1850 Sept. 7, 1850
Aug. 1, 1850 Aug. 1, 1850
Sept. 9, 1850 Sept. 9, 1850
9 Stat. 453 9 Stat. 453
97-85 97-85
31 S. 225 31 S. 225
Vermont Vermont
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
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~~State~~
~~(Territory, if~~
~~Presidential~~
~~Name Differs)~~
~~House Passage~~
~~Senate Passage~~
~~Approval~~
~~Citation(s)~~
Virginia Virginia
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Washington Washington
Feb. 10, 1853 Feb. 10, 1853
March 2, 1853 March 2, 1853
March 2, 1853 March 2, 1853
10 Stat. 172 10 Stat. 172
129- 129-29b29b
32 H.R. 348 32 H.R. 348
West Virginia West Virginia
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Wisconsin Wisconsin
Apr. 14, 1836 Apr. 14, 1836
Apr. 18, 1836 Apr. 18, 1836
Apr. 20, 1836 Apr. 20, 1836
5 Stat. 10 5 Stat. 10
24 S. 92 24 S. 92
Wyoming Wyoming
July 22, 1868 July 22, 1868
June 3, 1868 June 3, 1868
July 25, 1868 July 25, 1868
15 Stat. 178 15 Stat. 178
106-50 106-50
40 S. 357 40 S. 357
Sources: Annals of Congress, , Congressional Globe, , Congressional Record, , House Journal, , Senate Journal, , U.S. Statutes at
Large.
Notes: N/A means no territorial legislation was enacted (i.e., the 13 original states plus six states moved directly N/A means no territorial legislation was enacted (i.e., the 13 original states plus six states moved directly
to statehood without an intervening period of territorial government). Final votes on passage are listed. Two to statehood without an intervening period of territorial government). Final votes on passage are listed. Two
vote tallies are listed if the question was divided.vote tallies are listed if the question was divided. No vote count is listed when a vote tally was not recorded No vote count is listed when a vote tally was not recorded
(e.g., a measure was passed by voice vote). The effective date of legislation may differ from its date of presidential (e.g., a measure was passed by voice vote). The effective date of legislation may differ from its date of presidential
approval. Bil s and resolutions are presented with the Congress number preceeding the bil citation (e.g., H.R. 1 approval. Bil s and resolutions are presented with the Congress number preceeding the bil citation (e.g., H.R. 1
during the 50th Congress would appear as 50 H.R. 1). No bil or resolution number is listed for legislation that during the 50th Congress would appear as 50 H.R. 1). No bil or resolution number is listed for legislation that
was not identified in the record by number. The names of territories are noted in parentheses if they differ from was not identified in the record by number. The names of territories are noted in parentheses if they differ from
the eventual name of the state. Many territories were created out of existing territories, so territorial the eventual name of the state. Many territories were created out of existing territories, so territorial
boundaries differed at times from future state boundaries. boundaries differed at times from future state boundaries.
a. Votes marked with “a” are based on the vote tally in the a. Votes marked with “a” are based on the vote tally in the Congressional Record or predecessor publication, or predecessor publication,
with no vote count listed in the with no vote count listed in the House Journal or or Senate Journal. .
Congressional Research Service 6 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide b. Votes marked with “b” are based on the vote tally in the b. Votes marked with “b” are based on the vote tally in the House Journal or or Senate Journal, with the , with the
Congressional Record or predecessor publication listing a different vote count. or predecessor publication listing a different vote count.
Table 3. Enabling Acts
Enacted legislation that allowed residents to prepare for statehood Enacted legislation that allowed residents to prepare for statehood
Presidential
State
House Passage
Senate Passage
Approval
Citation(s)
Alabama Alabama
Feb. 19, 1819 Feb. 19, 1819
Feb. 23, 1819 Feb. 23, 1819
March 2, 1819 March 2, 1819
3 Stat. 489 3 Stat. 489
Alaska Alaska
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Arizona Arizona
June 18, 1910 June 18, 1910
June 16, 1910 June 16, 1910
June 20, 1910 June 20, 1910
36 Stat. 557 36 Stat. 557
65-0 65-0
61 H.R. 18166 61 H.R. 18166
Arkansas Arkansas
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
California California
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Colorado Colorado
March 3, 1875 March 3, 1875
Feb. 24, 1875 Feb. 24, 1875
March 3, 1875 March 3, 1875
18 Stat. 47 18 Stat. 474c
164- 164-7676a
43- 43-13b
43 H.R. 43 43 H.R. 435c
Connecticut Connecticut
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Delaware Delaware
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Florida Florida
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Georgia Georgia
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Hawaii Hawaii
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
~~Congressional Research Service~~

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~~Presidential~~
~~State~~
~~House Passage~~
~~Senate Passage~~
~~Approval~~
~~Citation(s)~~
Idaho Idaho
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Il inois Il inois
Apr. 15, 1818 Apr. 15, 1818
Apr. 14, 1818 Apr. 14, 1818
Apr. 18, 1818 Apr. 18, 1818
3 Stat. 428 3 Stat. 428
Indiana Indiana
Apr. 15, 1816 Apr. 15, 1816
Apr. 13, 1816 Apr. 13, 1816
Apr. 19, 1816 Apr. 19, 1816
3 Stat. 289 3 Stat. 289
Iowa Iowa
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Kansas Kansas
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Kentucky Kentucky
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Louisiana Louisiana
Feb. 13, 1811 Feb. 13, 1811
Feb. 7, 1811 Feb. 7, 1811
Feb. 20, 1811 Feb. 20, 1811
2 Stat. 641 2 Stat. 641
69-45 69-45
22-10 22-10
Maine Maine
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Maryland Maryland
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Massachusetts Massachusetts
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Michigan Michigan
June 13, 1836 June 13, 1836
Apr. 2, 1836 Apr. 2, 1836
June 15, 1836 June 15, 1836
5 Stat. 49 5 Stat. 49
24-18 24-18
24 S. 177 24 S. 177
Minnesota Minnesota
Jan. 31, 1857 Jan. 31, 1857
Feb. 25, 1857 Feb. 25, 1857
Feb. 26, 1857 Feb. 26, 1857
11 Stat. 166 11 Stat. 166
97-75 97-75
31-22 31-22
34 H.R. 642 34 H.R. 642
Mississippi Mississippi
Feb. 26, 1817 Feb. 26, 1817
Feb. 27, 1817 Feb. 27, 1817
March 1, 1817 March 1, 1817
3 Stat. 348 3 Stat. 348
Missouri Missouri
March 2, 1820 March 2, 1820
March 2, 1820 March 2, 1820
March 6, 1820 March 6, 1820
3 Stat. 545 3 Stat. 545
90-87 and 134-42 90-87 and 134-42
Montana Montana
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 22, 1889 Feb. 22, 1889
25 Stat. 67 25 Stat. 676c
50 S. 18 50 S. 185c
Congressional Research Service 7 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 link to page 13 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Presidential State House Passage Senate Passage Approval Citation(s) Nebraska Nebraska
March 17, 1864 March 17, 1864
Apr. 14, 1864 Apr. 14, 1864
Apr. 19, 1864 Apr. 19, 1864
13 Stat. 47 13 Stat. 47
38 H.R. 14½ 38 H.R. 14½
Nevada Nevada
March 17, 1864 March 17, 1864
Feb. 24, 1864 Feb. 24, 1864
March 21, 1864 March 21, 1864
13 Stat. 3 13 Stat. 30c
38 S. 9 38 S. 96c
New Hampshire New Hampshire
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
New Jersey New Jersey
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
New Mexico New Mexico
June 18, 1910 June 18, 1910
June 16, 1910 June 16, 1910
June 20, 1910 June 20, 1910
36 Stat. 557 36 Stat. 557
65-0 65-0
61 H.R. 18166 61 H.R. 18166
New York New York
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
North Carolina North Carolina
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
North Dakota North Dakota
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 22, 1889 Feb. 22, 1889
25 Stat. 67 25 Stat. 676c
50 S. 18 50 S. 185c
Ohio Ohio
Apr. 29, 1802 Apr. 29, 1802
Apr. 28, 1802 Apr. 28, 1802
Apr. 30, 1802 Apr. 30, 1802
2 Stat. 173 2 Stat. 173
16-6 16-6
Oklahoma Oklahoma
June 14, 1906 June 14, 1906
June 13, 1906 June 13, 1906
June 16, 1906 June 16, 1906
34 Stat. 26 34 Stat. 267c
59 H.R. 1270 59 H.R. 12707c
Oregon Oregon
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
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~~Presidential~~
~~State~~
~~House Passage~~
~~Senate Passage~~
~~Approval~~
~~Citation(s)~~
Rhode Island Rhode Island
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
South Carolina South Carolina
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
South Dakota South Dakota
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 22, 1889 Feb. 22, 1889
25 Stat. 67 25 Stat. 676c
50 S. 18 50 S. 185c
Tennessee Tennessee
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Texas Texas
Feb. 28, 1845 Feb. 28, 1845
Feb. 27, 1845 Feb. 27, 1845
March 1, 1845 March 1, 1845
5 Stat. 797 5 Stat. 797
134- 134-77b
27-25 27-25
28 H.J.Res. 46 28 H.J.Res. 46
Utah Utah
Dec. 13, 1893 Dec. 13, 1893
July 10, 1894 July 10, 1894
July 16, 1894 July 16, 1894
28 Stat. 10 28 Stat. 107c
53 H.R. 3553 H.R. 352c
Vermont Vermont
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Virginia Virginia
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Washington Washington
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 22, 1889 Feb. 22, 1889
25 Stat. 67 25 Stat. 676c
50 S. 18 50 S. 185c
West Virginia West Virginia
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Wisconsin Wisconsin
June 10, 1846 June 10, 1846
Aug. 5, 1846 Aug. 5, 1846
Aug. 6, 1846 Aug. 6, 1846
9 Stat. 56 9 Stat. 56
29 H.R. 105 29 H.R. 105
Wyoming Wyoming
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Sources: Annals of Congress, Congressional Globe, Congressional Record, House Journal, Senate Journal, U.S. Statutes at
Large. .
Notes: N/A means no enabling legislation was enacted ahead of final legislation to admit the state to the Union. N/A means no enabling legislation was enacted ahead of final legislation to admit the state to the Union.
Some enabling acts involved multiple future states. Only final votes on passage are listed.Some enabling acts involved multiple future states. Only final votes on passage are listed. Two vote tallies are Two vote tallies are
Congressional Research Service 8 link to page 11 link to page 13 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide listed if the question was divided.listed if the question was divided. No vote count is listed when a a measure was passed by voice vote. The No vote count is listed when a a measure was passed by voice vote. The
effective date of legislation may differ from the date of presidential approval. Bil s and resolutions are presented effective date of legislation may differ from the date of presidential approval. Bil s and resolutions are presented
with the Congress number preceeding the bil citation (e.g., H.R. 1 during the 50th Congress would appear as 50 with the Congress number preceeding the bil citation (e.g., H.R. 1 during the 50th Congress would appear as 50
H.R. 1). No bil or resolution number is listed for legislation not identified in the record by number. H.R. 1). No bil or resolution number is listed for legislation not identified in the record by number.
a. Votes marked with “a” are based on the vote tally in the a. Votes marked with “a” are based on the vote tally in the Congressional Record or predecessor publication, or predecessor publication,
with no vote count listed in the with no vote count listed in the House Journal or or Senate Journal. .
b. Votes marked with “b” are based on the vote tally in the b. Votes marked with “b” are based on the vote tally in the House Journal or or Senate Journal, with the , with the
Congressional Record or predecessor publication listing a different vote count. or predecessor publication listing a different vote count.
c. Citations marked with “c” are combined enabling and admission acts, and appear in both c. Citations marked with “c” are combined enabling and admission acts, and appear in both Table 3 and and
Table 4.
Table 4. Admission Acts
Enacted legislation that admitted a state into the Union Enacted legislation that admitted a state into the Union
Presidential
State
House Passage
Senate Passage
Approval
Citation(s)
Alabama Alabama
Dec. 8, 1819 Dec. 8, 1819
Dec. 8, 1819 Dec. 8, 1819
Dec. 14, 1819 Dec. 14, 1819
3 Stat. 608 3 Stat. 608
Alaska Alaska
May 28, 1958 May 28, 1958
June 30, 1958 June 30, 1958
July 7, 1958 July 7, 1958
72 Stat. 339 72 Stat. 339
210-166 210-166
64-20 64-20
85 H.R. 7999 85 H.R. 7999
Arizona Arizona
Aug. 19, 1911 Aug. 19, 1911
Aug. 18, 1911 Aug. 18, 1911
Aug. 21, 1911 Aug. 21, 1911
37 Stat. 39 37 Stat. 39
53-9 53-9
62 S.J.Res. 57 62 S.J.Res. 57
Arkansas Arkansas
June 13, 1836 June 13, 1836
Apr. 4, 1836 Apr. 4, 1836
June 15, 1836 June 15, 1836
5 Stat. 50 5 Stat. 50
143-50 143-50
31-6 31-6
24 S. 178 24 S. 178
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~~Presidential~~
~~State~~
~~House Passage~~
~~Senate Passage~~
~~Approval~~
~~Citation(s)~~
California California
Sept. 7, 1850 Sept. 7, 1850
Aug. 13, 1850 Aug. 13, 1850
Sept. 9, 1850 Sept. 9, 1850
9 Stat. 452 9 Stat. 452
150-56 150-56
34-18 34-18
31 S. 169 31 S. 169
Colorado Colorado
March 3, 1875 March 3, 1875
Feb. 24, 1875 Feb. 24, 1875
March 3, 1875 March 3, 1875
18 Stat. 47 18 Stat. 474c4b
164-76 164-76
43- 43-~~13b~~13a
43 H.R. 43 43 H.R. 435c5b
Connecticut Connecticut
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Delaware Delaware
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Florida Florida
Feb. 13, 1845 Feb. 13, 1845
March 1, 1845 March 1, 1845
March 3, 1845 March 3, 1845
5 Stat. 742 5 Stat. 742
144- 144-~~48b~~48a
36-9 36-9
28 H.R. 497 28 H.R. 497
Georgia Georgia
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Hawaii Hawaii
March 12, 1959 March 12, 1959
March 11, 1959 March 11, 1959
March 18, 1959 March 18, 1959
73 Stat. 4 73 Stat. 4
323-89 323-89
76-15 76-15
86 S. 50 86 S. 50
Idaho Idaho
Apr. 3, 1890 Apr. 3, 1890
July 1, 1890 July 1, 1890
July 3, 1890 July 3, 1890
26 Stat. 215 26 Stat. 215
129-1 129-1
51 H.R. 4562 51 H.R. 4562
Il inois Il inois
Nov. 23, 1818 Nov. 23, 1818
Dec. 1, 1818 Dec. 1, 1818
Dec. 3, 1818 Dec. 3, 1818
3 Stat. 536 3 Stat. 536
117-34 117-34
Indiana Indiana
Dec. 9, 1816 Dec. 9, 1816
Dec. 6, 1816 Dec. 6, 1816
Dec. 11, 1816 Dec. 11, 1816
3 Stat. 399 3 Stat. 399
Unanimou Unanimousasc
Iowa Iowa
Dec. 21, 1846 Dec. 21, 1846
Dec. 24, 1846 Dec. 24, 1846
Dec. 28, 1846 Dec. 28, 1846
9 Stat. 117 9 Stat. 117
29 H.R. 557 29 H.R. 557
Kansas Kansas
Jan. 28, 1861 Jan. 28, 1861
Jan. 21, 1861 Jan. 21, 1861
Jan. 29, 1861 Jan. 29, 1861
12 Stat. 126 12 Stat. 126
36-16 36-16
36 H.R. 23 36 H.R. 23
Kentucky Kentucky
Jan. 28, 1791 Jan. 28, 1791
Jan. 12, 1791 Jan. 12, 1791
Feb. 4, 1791 Feb. 4, 1791
1 Stat. 189 1 Stat. 189
Louisiana Louisiana
Apr. 6, 1812 Apr. 6, 1812
Apr. 1, 1812 Apr. 1, 1812
Apr. 8, 1812 Apr. 8, 1812
2 Stat. 701 2 Stat. 701
Maine Maine
March 3, 1820 March 3, 1820
March 3, 1820 March 3, 1820
March 3, 1820 March 3, 1820
3 Stat. 544 3 Stat. 544
Congressional Research Service 9 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 15 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Presidential State House Passage Senate Passage Approval Citation(s) Maryland Maryland
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Massachusetts Massachusetts
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Michigan Michigan
Jan. 25, 1837 Jan. 25, 1837
Jan. 5, 1837 Jan. 5, 1837
Jan. 26, 1837 Jan. 26, 1837
5 Stat. 144 5 Stat. 144
132-43 132-43
25-10 25-10
24 S. 81 24 S. 81
Minnesota Minnesota
May 11, 1858 May 11, 1858
Apr. 7, 1858 Apr. 7, 1858
May 11, 1858 May 11, 1858
11 Stat. 285 11 Stat. 285
157- 157-~~39b~~39a
49-3 49-3
35 S. 86 35 S. 86
Mississippi Mississippi
Dec. 8, 1817 Dec. 8, 1817
Dec. 3, 1817 Dec. 3, 1817
Dec. 10, 1817 Dec. 10, 1817
3 Stat. 472 3 Stat. 472
Missouri Missouri
Feb. 26, 1821 Feb. 26, 1821
Feb. 28, 1821 Feb. 28, 1821
March 2, 1821 March 2, 1821
3 Stat. 645 3 Stat. 645
87-81 87-81
28-14 28-14
Montana Montana
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 22, 1889 Feb. 22, 1889
25 Stat. 67 25 Stat. 676c6b
50 S. 18 50 S. 185c5b
Nebraska Nebraska
Jan. 15, 1867 Jan. 15, 1867
Jan. 16, 1867 Jan. 16, 1867
Veto (Jan. 30, 1867) Veto (Jan. 30, 1867)
14 Stat. 391 14 Stat. 391
103-55 103-55
28-14 28-14
overridden by overridden by
39 S. 456 39 S. 456
Senate (Feb. 8, Senate (Feb. 8,
1867, 31-9) and 1867, 31-9) and
House (Feb. 9, House (Feb. 9,
1867, 120-44) 1867, 120-44)
Nevada Nevada
March 17, 1864 March 17, 1864
Feb. 24, 1864 Feb. 24, 1864
March 21, 1864 March 21, 1864
13 Stat. 3 13 Stat. 30c0b 38 S. 96b
~~38 S. 96c~~
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~~Presidential~~
~~State~~
~~House Passage~~
~~Senate Passage~~
~~Approval~~
~~Citation(s)~~
New Hampshire New Hampshire
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
New Jersey New Jersey
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
New Mexico New Mexico
Aug. 19, 1911 Aug. 19, 1911
Aug. 18, 1911 Aug. 18, 1911
Aug. 21, 1911 Aug. 21, 1911
37 Stat. 39 37 Stat. 39
53-9 53-9
62 S.J.Res. 57 62 S.J.Res. 57
New York New York
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
North Carolina North Carolina
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
North Dakota North Dakota
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 22, 1889 Feb. 22, 1889
25 Stat. 67 25 Stat. 676c6b
50 S. 18 50 S. 185c5b
Ohio Ohio
May 19, 1953 May 19, 1953
Aug. 1, 1953 Aug. 1, 1953
Aug. 7, 1953 Aug. 7, 1953
67 Stat. 407 67 Stat. 407
83 H.J.Res. 121 83 H.J.Res. 121
Oklahoma Oklahoma
June 14, 1906 June 14, 1906
June 13, 1906 June 13, 1906
June 16, 1906 June 16, 1906
34 Stat. 26 34 Stat. 267c7b
59 H.R. 1270 59 H.R. 12707c7b
Oregon Oregon
Feb. 12, 1859 Feb. 12, 1859
May 18, 1858 May 18, 1858
Feb. 14, 1859 Feb. 14, 1859
11 Stat. 383 11 Stat. 383
114-103 114-103
35-17 35-17
35 S. 239 35 S. 239
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Rhode Island Rhode Island
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
South Carolina South Carolina
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
South Dakota South Dakota
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 22, 1889 Feb. 22, 1889
25 Stat. 67 25 Stat. 676c6b
50 S. 18 50 S. 185c5b
Tennessee Tennessee
May 30, 1796 May 30, 1796
May 31, 1796 May 31, 1796
June 1, 1796 June 1, 1796
1 Stat. 491 1 Stat. 491
Texas Texas
Dec. 16, 1845 Dec. 16, 1845
Dec. 22, 1845 Dec. 22, 1845
Dec. 29, 1845 Dec. 29, 1845
9 Stat. 108 9 Stat. 108
141- 141-~~57b~~57a
31-14 31-14
29 H.J.Res. 2 29 H.J.Res. 2
Utah Utah
Dec. 13, 1893 Dec. 13, 1893
July 10, 1894 July 10, 1894
July 16, 1894 July 16, 1894
28 Stat. 10 28 Stat. 107c7b
53 H.R. 3553 H.R. 352c2b Congressional Research Service 10 link to page 15 link to page 15 link to page 7 link to page 11 link to page 13 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Presidential State House Passage Senate Passage Approval Citation(s)
Vermont Vermont
Feb. 14, 1791 Feb. 14, 1791
Feb. 12, 1791 Feb. 12, 1791
Feb. 18, 1791 Feb. 18, 1791
1 Stat. 191 1 Stat. 191
Virginia Virginia
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Washington Washington
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 20, 1889 Feb. 20, 1889
Feb. 22, 1889 Feb. 22, 1889
25 Stat. 67 25 Stat. 676c6b
50 S. 18 50 S. 185c5b
West Virginia West Virginia
Dec. 10, 1862 Dec. 10, 1862
July 14, 1862 July 14, 1862
Dec. 31, 1862 Dec. 31, 1862
12 Stat. 633 12 Stat. 633
96-55 96-55
23-17 23-17
37 S. 365 37 S. 365
Wisconsin Wisconsin
May 11, 1848 May 11, 1848
May 19, 1848 May 19, 1848
May 29, 1848 May 29, 1848
9 Stat. 233 9 Stat. 233
30 H.R. 397 30 H.R. 397
Wyoming Wyoming
July 8, 1890 July 8, 1890
June 27, 1890 June 27, 1890
July 10, 1890 July 10, 1890
26 Stat. 222 26 Stat. 222
29-18 29-18
51 H.R. 982 51 H.R. 982
Sources: Annals of Congress, Congressional Globe, Congressional Record, House Journal, Senate Journal, U.S. Statutes at
Large.
Notes: N/A means no admission act (i.e., one of the 13 original states). Some admission acts involved multiple N/A means no admission act (i.e., one of the 13 original states). Some admission acts involved multiple
states. An admission act may have preceded a presidential proclamation formally admitting the state, and/or the states. An admission act may have preceded a presidential proclamation formally admitting the state, and/or the
effective date of admission may have differed from the date of presidential approval; seeeffective date of admission may have differed from the date of presidential approval; see Table 1 for each state’s for each state’s
effective date of admission. Only final votes on passage are listed.effective date of admission. Only final votes on passage are listed. Two vote tallies are listed if the question was Two vote tallies are listed if the question was
divided.divided. No vote count is listed when a vote tally was not recorded (e.g., a measure was passed by voice vote). No vote count is listed when a vote tally was not recorded (e.g., a measure was passed by voice vote).
Bil s and resolutions are presented with the Congress number preceeding the bil citation (e.g., H.R. 1 during the Bil s and resolutions are presented with the Congress number preceeding the bil citation (e.g., H.R. 1 during the
50th Congress would appear as 50 H.R. 1). No bil or resolution number is listed for legislation not identified in 50th Congress would appear as 50 H.R. 1). No bil or resolution number is listed for legislation not identified in
the record by number. the record by number.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

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~~a. Votes marked with “a” are based on the vote tally in the Congressional Record or predecessor publication,~~
~~with no vote count listed in the House Journal or Senate Journal.~~
ba. Votes marked with “b” are based on the vote tally in the . Votes marked with “b” are based on the vote tally in the House Journal or or Senate Journal, with the , with the
Congressional Record or predecessor publication listing a different vote count. or predecessor publication listing a different vote count.
cb. Citations marked with “c” are combined enabling and admission acts, and appear in both. Citations marked with “c” are combined enabling and admission acts, and appear in both Table 3 and and
Table 4.
c. Votes marked with “a” are based on the vote tally in the Congressional Record or predecessor publication, with no vote count listed in the House Journal or Senate Journal. Table 5. Referendum Votes
State-level referendums, ratifications, and other statehood-related votes, including State-level referendums, ratifications, and other statehood-related votes, including both popular votes and both popular votes and
votes by delegates elected to a convention votes by delegates elected to a convention
Referendum
Vote
State
Question or Type
Date
(Yes-No)
Notes
Alabama Alabama
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Alaska Alaska
“Shall Alaska “Shall Alaska
Aug. 26, 1958 Aug. 26, 1958
40,452-8,010 40,452-8,010
Earlier statehood Earlier statehood
immediately be immediately be
referendum held referendum held
admitted into the admitted into the
Oct. 8, 1946; state Oct. 8, 1946; state
Union as a State?” Union as a State?”
constitution ratified constitution ratified
Apr. 24, 1956 Apr. 24, 1956
Arizona Arizona
Amendment to Amendment to
Dec. 12, 1911 Dec. 12, 1911
14,963-1,980 14,963-1,980
Congress required Congress required
state constitution state constitution
amendment as amendment as
condition for condition for
admission; state admission; state
constitution ratified constitution ratified
Feb. 9, 1911 Feb. 9, 1911
Congressional Research Service 11 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Referendum Vote State Question or Type Date (Yes-No) Notes Arkansas Arkansas
Opinion of Opinion of
Aug. 1, 1835 Aug. 1, 1835
1,942-908 1,942-908
Several counties Several counties
statehood statehood
allowed opinion on allowed opinion on
statehood to be statehood to be
recorded on recorded on
territorial election territorial election
ballot ballot
California California
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Nov. 13, 1849 Nov. 13, 1849
12,061-811 12,061-811

constitution constitution
Colorado Colorado
Ratification of state Ratification of state
July 1, 1876 July 1, 1876
15,443-4,062 15,443-4,062

constitution constitution
Connecticut Connecticut
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
Jan. 9, 1788 Jan. 9, 1788
128-40 128-40
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention
Delaware Delaware
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
Dec. 7, 1787 Dec. 7, 1787
30-0 30-0
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention
Florida Florida
Ratification of state Ratification of state
May 6, 1839 May 6, 1839
2,071-1,958 2,071-1,958
Earlier statehood Earlier statehood
constitution constitution
referendum held referendum held
May 1, 1837 May 1, 1837
Georgia Georgia
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
Dec. 31, 1787 Dec. 31, 1787
26-0 26-0
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention; state convention;
ratification ratification
formalized Jan. 2, formalized Jan. 2,
1788 1788
Hawaii Hawaii
“Shall Hawaii “Shall Hawaii
June 27, 1959 June 27, 1959
132,773-7,971 132,773-7,971
Earlier statehood Earlier statehood
immediately be immediately be
referendum held referendum held
admitted into the admitted into the
Nov. 5, 1940; state Nov. 5, 1940; state
Union as a State?” Union as a State?”
constitution ratified constitution ratified
Nov. 7, 1950 Nov. 7, 1950
~~Congressional Research Service~~

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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~Referendum~~
~~Vote~~
~~State~~
~~Question or Type~~
~~Date~~
~~(Yes-No)~~
~~Notes~~
Idaho Idaho
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Nov. 5, 1889 Nov. 5, 1889
12,398-1,773 12,398-1,773

constitution constitution
Il inois Il inois
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Indiana Indiana
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Iowa Iowa
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Aug. 3, 1846 Aug. 3, 1846
9,492-9,036 9,492-9,036
Earlier state Earlier state
constitution constitution
constitution constitution
rejected Apr. 7, rejected Apr. 7,
1845 and Aug. 4, 1845 and Aug. 4,
1845; earlier 1845; earlier
referendum Apr. 1, referendum Apr. 1,
1844 1844
Kansas Kansas
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Oct. 4, 1859 Oct. 4, 1859
10,421-5,530 10,421-5,530
Earlier state Earlier state
constitution constitution
constitution constitution
rejected Aug. 2, rejected Aug. 2,
1858 1858
Kentucky Kentucky
Opinion of Opinion of
July 28, 1790 July 28, 1790
24-18 24-18
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
statehood statehood
Ninth Kentucky Ninth Kentucky
Convention Convention
Louisiana Louisiana
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A

Congressional Research Service 12 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Referendum Vote State Question or Type Date (Yes-No) Notes Maine Maine
“Should Maine “Should Maine
July 26, 1819 July 26, 1819
17,091-7,132 17,091-7,132
Earlier votes on Earlier votes on
separate from separate from
separation held in separation held in
Massachusetts?” Massachusetts?”
1792, 1797, 1807, 1792, 1797, 1807,
and 1816 (twice) and 1816 (twice)
Maryland Maryland
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
Apr. 26, 1788 Apr. 26, 1788
63-11 63-11
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention; state convention;
ratification ratification
formalized Apr. 28, formalized Apr. 28,
1788 1788
Massachusetts Massachusetts
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
Feb. 6, 1788 Feb. 6, 1788
187-168 187-168
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention
Michigan Michigan
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Oct. 5-06, 1835 Oct. 5-06, 1835
6,752-1,374 6,752-1,374
Later, on Dec. 15, Later, on Dec. 15,
constitution constitution
1836, a second state 1836, a second state
convention known convention known
as the “Frostbitten as the “Frostbitten
Convention” Convention”
unanimously unanimously
approved the approved the
conditions of the conditions of the
enabling act enabling act
Minnesota Minnesota
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Oct. 13, 1857 Oct. 13, 1857
30,055-571 30,055-571

constitution constitution
Mississippi Mississippi
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Missouri Missouri
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Montana Montana
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Oct. 1, 1889 Oct. 1, 1889
24,676-2,274 24,676-2,274

constitution constitution
Nebraska Nebraska
Ratification of state Ratification of state
June 2, 1866 June 2, 1866
3,938-3,838 3,938-3,838

constitution constitution
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~~Referendum~~
~~Vote~~
~~State~~
~~Question or Type~~
~~Date~~
~~(Yes-No)~~
~~Notes~~
Nevada Nevada
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Sept. 7, 1864 Sept. 7, 1864
10,375-1,284 10,375-1,284

constitution constitution
New Hampshire New Hampshire
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
June 21, 1788 June 21, 1788
57-47 57-47
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention
New Jersey New Jersey
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
Dec. 18, 1787 Dec. 18, 1787
38-0 38-0
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention
New Mexico New Mexico
Amendment to Amendment to
Nov. 7, 1911 Nov. 7, 1911
34,897-22,831 34,897-22,831
Congress required Congress required
state constitution state constitution
amendment as amendment as
condition for condition for
admission; state admission; state
constitution ratified constitution ratified
Jan. 21, 1911 Jan. 21, 1911
New York New York
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
July 26, 1788 July 26, 1788
30-27 30-27
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention Congressional Research Service 13 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Referendum Vote State Question or Type Date (Yes-No) Notes
North Carolina North Carolina
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
Nov. 21, 1789 Nov. 21, 1789
194-77 194-77
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
second state second state
convention; first convention; first
convention voted convention voted
Aug. 2, 1788 to Aug. 2, 1788 to
demand demand
amendments amendments
North Dakota North Dakota
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Oct. 1, 1889 Oct. 1, 1889
27,441-8,107 27,441-8,107
Earlier referendum Earlier referendum
constitution constitution
on dividing Dakota on dividing Dakota
Territory held Nov. Territory held Nov.
8, 1887 8, 1887
Ohio Ohio
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
N/A N/A
Oklahoma Oklahoma
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Sept. 17, 1907 Sept. 17, 1907
180,333-73,059 180,333-73,059
Indian Territory Indian Territory
constitution constitution
voted Nov. 7, 1905 voted Nov. 7, 1905
on constitution for on constitution for
separate state of separate state of
Sequoyah Sequoyah
Oregon Oregon
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Nov. 9, 1857 Nov. 9, 1857
7,195-3,215 7,195-3,215
Earlier referendum Earlier referendum
constitution constitution
on statehood held on statehood held
June 1857 June 1857
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
Dec. 12, 1787 Dec. 12, 1787
46-23 46-23
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention
Rhode Island Rhode Island
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
May 29, 1790 May 29, 1790
34-32 34-32
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention
South Carolina South Carolina
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
May 23, 1788 May 23, 1788
149-73 149-73
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention
South Dakota South Dakota
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Oct. 1, 1889 Oct. 1, 1889
70,131-3,267 70,131-3,267
Earlier referendum Earlier referendum
constitution constitution
on dividing Dakota on dividing Dakota
Territory held Nov. Territory held Nov.
8, 1887 8, 1887
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~~Referendum~~
~~Vote~~
~~State~~
~~Question or Type~~
~~Date~~
~~(Yes-No)~~
~~Notes~~
Tennessee Tennessee
“Is it your wish if, “Is it your wish if,
Sept. 15, 1795 to Sept. 15, 1795 to
6,504-2,562 6,504-2,562

on taking the on taking the
Nov. 15, 1795 Nov. 15, 1795
enumeration, there enumeration, there
should prove to be should prove to be
less than sixty less than sixty
thousand thousand
inhabitants, that the inhabitants, that the
Territory shall be Territory shall be
admitted as a State admitted as a State
in to the Federal in to the Federal
Union with such Union with such
less number or less number or
not?” not?”
Texas Texas
Annexation and Annexation and
Oct. 13, 1845 Oct. 13, 1845
7,664-430 7,664-430

ratification of state ratification of state
(annexation), 7,527- (annexation), 7,527-
constitution constitution
536 (ratification) 536 (ratification)
Utah Utah
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Nov. 5, 1895 Nov. 5, 1895
31,305-7,607 31,305-7,607

constitution constitution
Vermont Vermont
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
Jan. 10, 1791 Jan. 10, 1791
105-4 105-4
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention Congressional Research Service 14 link to page 19 link to page 49 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Referendum Vote State Question or Type Date (Yes-No) Notes
Virginia Virginia
Ratification of U.S. Ratification of U.S.
June 25, 1788 June 25, 1788
89-79 89-79
Vote of delegates to Vote of delegates to
Constitution Constitution
state convention state convention
Washington Washington
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Oct. 1, 1889 Oct. 1, 1889
40,152-11,879 40,152-11,879

constitution constitution
West Virginia West Virginia
Ratification of state Ratification of state
March 26, 1863 March 26, 1863
28,321-572 28,321-572
Earlier vote on Earlier vote on
constitution constitution
statehood Oct. 24, statehood Oct. 24,
1861 1861
Wisconsin Wisconsin
Ratification of state Ratification of state
March 13, 1848 March 13, 1848
16,759-6,384 16,759-6,384
Earlier state Earlier state
constitution constitution
constitution constitution
rejected Apr. June rejected Apr. June
1847 1847
Wyoming Wyoming
Ratification of state Ratification of state
Nov. 5, 1889 Nov. 5, 1889
6,272-1,923 6,272-1,923

constitution constitution
Sources: Various; see citations in the Various; see citations in the “Statehood Timelines” ~~section~~section for details. for details.
Notes: N/A means no referendum or similar vote was located. In general, if multiple votes occurred as part of N/A means no referendum or similar vote was located. In general, if multiple votes occurred as part of
the statehood process (e.g., an initial referendum on whether to seek admission and a subsequent ratification the statehood process (e.g., an initial referendum on whether to seek admission and a subsequent ratification
vote on the state constitution), the final vote is described in the table (in this example, ratification of the state vote on the state constitution), the final vote is described in the table (in this example, ratification of the state
constitution) and the earlier vote (in this example, the initial referendum) is mentioned in the “Notes” column. constitution) and the earlier vote (in this example, the initial referendum) is mentioned in the “Notes” column.

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Statehood Timelines
Alabama
• • September 3, 1783: United States United States
acquires part of the future acquires part of the future
Alabama: 22nd State
Alabama from Great Britain in the Alabama from Great Britain in the
Alabama Territory created March 3, 1817 (3 Stat. 371) Alabama Territory created March 3, 1817 (3 Stat. 371)
Treaty of Paris. Additional Treaty of Paris. Additional
Enabling law enacted March 2, 1819 (3 Stat. 489) Enabling law enacted March 2, 1819 (3 Stat. 489)
territory is later acquired in the territory is later acquired in the
Alabama admitted December 14, 1819 (3 Stat. 608) Alabama admitted December 14, 1819 (3 Stat. 608)
Adams-Onís Treaty of 1819.20 Adams-Onís Treaty of 1819.20
• • January 17, 1817: Senator Charles Tait of Georgia reports, from a select Senator Charles Tait of Georgia reports, from a select
committee, a bill that would create a new territorial government in the eastern committee, a bill that would create a new territorial government in the eastern
part of the Mississippi Territory. He also reports a separate bill to prepare the part of the Mississippi Territory. He also reports a separate bill to prepare the
western part of the territory for statehood.21 western part of the territory for statehood.21
• • February 21, 1817: Senate passes the bill creating the Alabama Territory Senate passes the bill creating the Alabama Territory
without a recorded vote.22 without a recorded vote.22
20 Harriet E. Amos Doss, “The State of Alabama,” in The Uniting States: The Story of Statehood for the Fifty United States, vol. 1, ed. Benjamin F. Shearer (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 2004), pp. 24-53. 21 Journal of the Senate of the United States of America (Senate Journal), 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 17, 1817), p. 123; The Debates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United States (Annals of Congress), vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 17, 1817), p. 71. See the “Mississippi” timeline for information on the latter bill. 22 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 21, 1817), pp. 273-274; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 21, 1817), p. 139. Congressional Research Service 15 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • March 3, 1817: House passes the Alabama Territory bill without a recorded House passes the Alabama Territory bill without a recorded
vote.23 President James Madison signs “[a]n Act to establish a separate territorial vote.23 President James Madison signs “[a]n Act to establish a separate territorial
government for the eastern part of the Mississippi territory,” creating the government for the eastern part of the Mississippi territory,” creating the
Alabama Territory.24 Alabama Territory.24
• • December 11, 1818: Senate receives a petition from Alabama territorial officials Senate receives a petition from Alabama territorial officials
“praying admission into the Union” as a state and refers it to a select “praying admission into the Union” as a state and refers it to a select
committee.25 committee.25
• • December 18, 1818: Senator Tait reports from the select committee a bill Senator Tait reports from the select committee a bill
enabling Alabama to “form a constitution and state government” and join the enabling Alabama to “form a constitution and state government” and join the
Union.26 Union.26
• • January 12, 1819: Senate passes the Alabama statehood bill without a recorded Senate passes the Alabama statehood bill without a recorded
vote.27 vote.27

~~20 Harriet E. Amos Doss, “The State of Alabama,” in~~ ~~The Uniting States: The Story of Statehood for the Fifty United~~
~~States, vol. 1, ed. Benjamin F. Shearer (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 2004), pp. 24-53.~~
~~21 Journal of the Senate of the United States of America (Senate Journal), 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 17, 1817), p.~~
~~123; The Debates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United States (Annals of Congress), vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd~~
~~sess. (January 17, 1817), p. 71. See the “Mississippi” timeline for information on the latter bill.~~
~~22 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 21, 1817), pp. 273-274; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd~~
~~sess. (February 21, 1817), p. 139.~~
• February 19, 1819: House passes an amended version of the enabling act without a recorded vote.28 • February 23, 1819: Senate concurs in the House’s amendments to the enabling act without a recorded vote.29 • March 2, 1819: President James Monroe signs “[a]n Act to enable the people of the Alabama territory to form a constitution and state government, and for the admission of such state into the Union on an equal footing with the original states.”30 • July 5, 1819: Delegates gather in Huntsville to write a state constitution for Alabama.31 • August 2, 1819: Delegates at the Huntsville convention finalize and sign a state constitution for Alabama.32 23 23 Journal of the House of Representatives of the United States ( (House Journal), 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 3, 1817), ), 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 3, 1817),
p. 545; p. 545; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 3, 1817), p. 1066. , vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 3, 1817), p. 1066.
24 3 Stat. 371. 24 3 Stat. 371.
25 25 Senate Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 11, 1818), p. 70; , 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 11, 1818), p. 70; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 11, 1818), p. 66. (December 11, 1818), p. 66.
26 26 Senate Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 18, 1818), p. 86; , 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 18, 1818), p. 86; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 18, 1818), p. 75. (December 18, 1818), p. 75.
27 27 Senate Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 12, 1819), p. 143; , 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 12, 1819), p. 143; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess.
(January 12, 1819), p. 121. (January 12, 1819), p. 121.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• February 19, 1819: House passes an amended version of the enabling act~~
~~without a recorded vote.28~~
~~• February 23, 1819: Senate concurs in the House’s amendments to the enabling~~
~~act without a recorded vote.29~~
~~• March 2, 1819: President James Monroe signs “[a]n Act to enable the people of~~
~~the Alabama territory to form a constitution and state government, and for the~~
~~admission of such state into the Union on an equal footing with the original~~
~~states.”30~~
~~• July 5, 1819: Delegates gather in Huntsville to write a state constitution for~~
~~Alabama.31~~
~~• August 2, 1819: Delegates at the Huntsville convention finalize and sign a state~~
~~constitution for Alabama.32~~28 House Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 19, 1819), pp. 290-291; Annals of Congress, vol. 34, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 19, 1819), p. 1272. 29 Senate Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 23, 1819), p. 295; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 23, 1819), p. 253. 30 3 Stat. 489. 31 Journal of the Convention of the Alabama Territory Begun July 5, 1819 (Huntsville, AL: John Boardman, 1819), pp. 3-4. 32 Journal of the Convention of the Alabama Territory, pp. 38-39. Congressional Research Service 16 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • December 8, 1819: Senate adopts a joint resolution declaring Alabama admitted Senate adopts a joint resolution declaring Alabama admitted
into the Union, without a recorded vote.33 into the Union, without a recorded vote.33 House adopts the resolution without a House adopts the resolution without a
recorded vote.34 recorded vote.34
• • December 14, 1819: President Monroe signs the admission resolution into law, President Monroe signs the admission resolution into law,
establishing “[t]hat the state of Alabama shall be one, and is hereby declared to establishing “[t]hat the state of Alabama shall be one, and is hereby declared to
be one, of the United States of America.”35 be one, of the United States of America.”35
Alaska
• • October 18, 1867: United States United States
Alaska: 49th State
purchases Alaska from Russia.36 purchases Alaska from Russia.36
Alaska Territory created August 24, 1912 (37 Stat. 512) Alaska Territory created August 24, 1912 (37 Stat. 512)
• • May 17, 1884: President Chester A. President Chester A.
Statehood law enacted July 7, 1958 (72 Stat. 339) Statehood law enacted July 7, 1958 (72 Stat. 339)
Arthur signs “[a]n act providing a Arthur signs “[a]n act providing a
Alaska admitted January 3, 1959 (73 Stat. c16) Alaska admitted January 3, 1959 (73 Stat. c16)
civil government for Alaska,” which civil government for Alaska,” which
creates the District of Alaska.37 creates the District of Alaska.37

~~28 House Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 19, 1819), pp. 290-291; Annals of Congress, vol. 34, 15th Cong., 2nd~~
~~sess. (February 19, 1819), p. 1272.~~
~~29 Senate Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 23, 1819), p. 295; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(February 23, 1819), p. 253.~~
~~30 3 Stat. 489.~~
~~31 Journal of the Convention of the Alabama Territory Begun July 5, 1819 (Huntsville, AL: John Boardman, 1819), pp.~~
~~3-4.~~
~~32 Journal of the Convention of the Alabama Territory, pp. 38-39.~~
• April 4, 1911: Delegate James Wickersham of Alaska introduces 62 H.R. 38,38 which would grant territory status to Alaska.39 • April 24, 1912: House amends 62 H.R. 38 and passes it without a recorded vote.40 • July 24, 1912: Senate amends 62 H.R. 38 and passes it without a recorded vote.41 • August 17, 1912: Senate adopts conference report on 62 H.R. 38 without a recorded vote.42 • August 20, 1912: House agrees to conference report on 62 H.R. 38 without a recorded vote.43 33 33 Senate Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (December 8, 1819), p. 21; , 16th Cong., 1st sess. (December 8, 1819), p. 21; Annals of Congress, vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st sess.
(December 8, 1819), p. 20-21. (December 8, 1819), p. 20-21.
34 34 House Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (December 8, 1819), p. 22; , 16th Cong., 1st sess. (December 8, 1819), p. 22; Annals of Congress, vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st sess.
(December 8, 1819), p. 710. (December 8, 1819), p. 710.
35 3 Stat. 608. 35 3 Stat. 608.
36 William S. Hanable, “The State of Alaska,” in Shearer, 36 William S. Hanable, “The State of Alaska,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 54-78. , vol. 1, pp. 54-78.
37 23 Stat. 24. District status gave Alaska a governor and federal court, but no territorial legislature. See Jessica Van 37 23 Stat. 24. District status gave Alaska a governor and federal court, but no territorial legislature. See Jessica Van
Buren, “Alaska Prestatehood Legal Research Resources,” in Buren, “Alaska Prestatehood Legal Research Resources,” in Prestatehood Legal Materials: A Fifty-State Research
Guide, Including New York City and the District of Columbia, vol. 1, eds. Michael Chiorazzi and Marguerite Most , vol. 1, eds. Michael Chiorazzi and Marguerite Most
(New York: The Haworth Information Press, 2005), pp. 31-50. (New York: The Haworth Information Press, 2005), pp. 31-50.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

17

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• April 4, 1911: Delegate James Wickersham of Alaska introduces 62 H.R. 38,38~~
~~which would grant territory status to Alaska.39~~
~~• April 24, 1912: House amends 62 H.R. 38 and passes it without a recorded~~
~~vote.40~~
~~• July 24, 1912: Senate amends 62 H.R. 38 and passes it without a recorded vote.41~~
~~• August 17, 1912: Senate adopts conference report on 62 H.R. 38 without a~~
~~recorded vote.42~~
~~• August 20, 1912: House agrees to conference report on 62 H.R. 38 without a~~
~~recorded vote.43~~
~~• August 24, 1912: President William Howard Taft signs 62 H.R. 38 into law,~~
~~establishing a territorial government for Alaska.44~~
~~• October 8, 1946: Alaska voters back statehood, 9,630 to 6,822, in a~~
~~referendum.45~~
~~• November 8, 1955: A constitutional convention called by the Territorial~~
~~Legislature holds its first meeting at the University of Alaska, just outside~~
~~Fairbanks.46~~
~~• February 5, 1956: Delegates vote 54-0 to adopt a state constitution for Alaska.47~~
~~• April 24, 1956: Alaska residents vote 17,477 to 7,180 in favor of ratifying the~~
~~new state constitution.48~~
~~• June 7, 1957: Representative Leo W. O’Brien of New York introduces 85 H.R.~~
~~7999, a bill for “the admission of the State of Alaska into the Union.”49~~
~~• May 28, 1958: House votes 210-166 to pass 85 H.R. 7999.50~~

~~38 Throughout this report, bills and resolutions are presented with the Congress number preceeding the bill citation. In~~
~~this instance, 62 H.R. 38 is H.R. 38 during the 62nd Congress.~~
~~39 House Journal, 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (April 4, 1911), p. 15; Congressional Record, vol. 47, part 1 (April 4, 1911), p.~~
~~22.~~
~~40 House Journal, 62nd Cong., 2nd sess. (April 24, 1912), pp. 598-599; Congressional Record, vol. 48, part 6 (April 24,~~
~~1912), pp. 5260-5303.~~
~~41 Senate Journal, 62nd Cong., 2nd sess. (July 24, 1912), p. 479; Congressional Record, vol. 48, part 10 (July 24, 1912),~~
~~pp. 9535-9540.~~
~~42 Senate Journal, 62nd Cong., 2nd sess. (August 17, 1912), pp. 559-560; Congressional Record, vol. 48, part 11 (August~~
~~17, 1912), pp. 11164-11165.~~
~~43 House Journal, 62nd Cong., 2nd sess. (August 20, 1912), p. 994; Congressional Record, vol. 48, part 11 (August 20,~~
~~1912), pp. 11393-11394.~~
38 Throughout this report, bills and resolutions are presented with the Congress number preceeding the bill citation. In this instance, 62 H.R. 38 is H.R. 38 during the 62nd Congress. 39 House Journal, 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (April 4, 1911), p. 15; Congressional Record, vol. 47, part 1 (April 4, 1911), p. 22. 40 House Journal, 62nd Cong., 2nd sess. (April 24, 1912), pp. 598-599; Congressional Record, vol. 48, part 6 (April 24, 1912), pp. 5260-5303. 41 Senate Journal, 62nd Cong., 2nd sess. (July 24, 1912), p. 479; Congressional Record, vol. 48, part 10 (July 24, 1912), pp. 9535-9540. 42 Senate Journal, 62nd Cong., 2nd sess. (August 17, 1912), pp. 559-560; Congressional Record, vol. 48, part 11 (August 17, 1912), pp. 11164-11165. 43 House Journal, 62nd Cong., 2nd sess. (August 20, 1912), p. 994; Congressional Record, vol. 48, part 11 (August 20, 1912), pp. 11393-11394. Congressional Research Service 17 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • August 24, 1912: President William Howard Taft signs 62 H.R. 38 into law, establishing a territorial government for Alaska.44 • October 8, 1946: Alaska voters back statehood, 9,630 to 6,822, in a referendum.45 • November 8, 1955: A constitutional convention called by the Territorial Legislature holds its first meeting at the University of Alaska, just outside Fairbanks.46 • February 5, 1956: Delegates vote 54-0 to adopt a state constitution for Alaska.47 • April 24, 1956: Alaska residents vote 17,477 to 7,180 in favor of ratifying the new state constitution.48 • June 7, 1957: Representative Leo W. O’Brien of New York introduces 85 H.R. 7999, a bill for “the admission of the State of Alaska into the Union.”49 • May 28, 1958: House votes 210-166 to pass 85 H.R. 7999.50 • June 30, 1958: Senate votes 64-20 to pass 85 H.R. 7999.51 • July 7, 1958: President Dwight Eisenhower signs 85 H.R. 7999 into law, admitting Alaska as a state pending a referendum vote.52 • August 26, 1958: Alaskans approve statehood in a three-part referendum. On the question, “Shall Alaska immediately be admitted into the Union as a State?” the vote is 40,452 to 8,010.53 • January 3, 1959: President Eisenhower issues Proclamation No. 3269, “Admission of the State of Alaska into the Union,” concluding the statehood process.54 Arizona Arizona: 48th State 44 37 Stat. 512. 44 37 Stat. 512.
45 Ernest Gruening, 45 Ernest Gruening, Annual Report of the Governor of Alaska to the Secretary of the Interior (Washington: GPO, 1947), (Washington: GPO, 1947),
p. 1. p. 1.
46 46 Minutes of the Daily Proceedings, Alaska Constitutional Convention, vol. 1 (Juneau, AK: Alaska Legislative , vol. 1 (Juneau, AK: Alaska Legislative
Council, 1965), p. 1. Council, 1965), p. 1.
47 47 Minutes of the Daily Proceedings, Alaska Constitutional Convention, vol. 5, pp. 3938-3939. , vol. 5, pp. 3938-3939.
48 B. Frank Heintzleman, 48 B. Frank Heintzleman, 1956 Annual Report, Governor of Alaska to the Secretary of the Interior (Washington: GPO, (Washington: GPO,
1956), p. 1. 1956), p. 1.
49 49 House Journal, 85th Cong., 1st sess. (June 7, 1957), p. 512; , 85th Cong., 1st sess. (June 7, 1957), p. 512; Congressional Record, vol. 103, part 7 (June 7, 1957), p. , vol. 103, part 7 (June 7, 1957), p.
8564. 8564.
50 50 House Journal, 85th Cong., 2nd sess. (May 28, 1958), pp. 408-409; , 85th Cong., 2nd sess. (May 28, 1958), pp. 408-409; Congressional Record, vol. 104, part 7 (May 28, , vol. 104, part 7 (May 28,
1958), pp. 9756-9757. 1958), pp. 9756-9757.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

18

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• June 30, 1958: Senate votes 64-20 to pass 85 H.R. 7999.51~~
~~• July 7, 1958: President Dwight Eisenhower signs 85 H.R. 7999 into law,~~
~~admitting Alaska as a state pending a referendum vote.52~~
~~• August 26, 1958: Alaskans approve statehood in a three-part referendum. On the~~
~~question, “Shall Alaska immediately be admitted into the Union as a State?” the~~
~~vote is 40,452 to 8,010.53~~
~~• January 3, 1959: President Eisenhower issues Proclamation No. 3269,~~
~~“Admission of the State of Alaska into the Union,” concluding the statehood~~
~~process.54~~
~~Arizona~~51 Senate Journal, 85th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 30, 1958), p. 435; Congressional Record, vol. 104, part 10 (June 30, 1958), p. 12650. 52 72 Stat. 339. 53 Alaska Division of Elections, Statehood Election: Final Results of Special Referendum Election, at https://www.elections.alaska.gov/Core/Archive/58STATE/1958-statehood.pdf. 54 73 Stat. c16. Congressional Research Service 18 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • April 25, 1854: The United States
• April 25, 1854: ~~The United States~~ buys part of the land that will buys part of the land that will ~~become Arizona~~
~~from Mexico in the Gadsden~~
~~Purchase, adding to land acquired~~
~~Arizona: 48th State~~
~~in 1848 by the Treaty of~~
Arizona Territory created February 24, 1863 (12 Stat. 664) Arizona Territory created February 24, 1863 (12 Stat. 664)
~~Guadalupe Hidalgo.55~~become Arizona from Mexico in
Enabling law enacted June 20, 1910 (36 Stat. 557) Enabling law enacted June 20, 1910 (36 Stat. 557)
• March 12, 1862: ~~Representative~~the Gadsden Purchase, adding to
Admission law enacted August 21, 1911 (37 Stat. 39) Admission law enacted August 21, 1911 (37 Stat. 39)
~~James M. Ashley of Ohio reports~~land acquired in 1848 by the
Arizona admitted February 14, 1912 (37 Stat. 1728) Arizona admitted February 14, 1912 (37 Stat. 1728)
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.55 • March 12, 1862: Representative James M. Ashley of Ohio reports 37 H.R. 357, a ~~37 H.R. 357, a~~ bill to create a bill to create a
territorial government for Arizona, from the House Committee on Territories.56 territorial government for Arizona, from the House Committee on Territories.56
• • May 8, 1862: House passes 37 H.R. 357 without a recorded vote, after rejecting House passes 37 H.R. 357 without a recorded vote, after rejecting
a motion to table the bill.57 a motion to table the bill.57
• • February 20, 1863: Senates passes 37 H.R. 357 on a 25-12 vote.58 Senates passes 37 H.R. 357 on a 25-12 vote.58
• • February 24, 1863: President Abraham Lincoln signs 37 H.R. 357 into law, President Abraham Lincoln signs 37 H.R. 357 into law,
creating the Territory of Arizona.59 creating the Territory of Arizona.59
• • January 14, 1910: Representative Edward L. Hamilton of Michigan introduces Representative Edward L. Hamilton of Michigan introduces
61 H.R. 18166, which would enable Arizona and New Mexico to write 61 H.R. 18166, which would enable Arizona and New Mexico to write
constitutions in preparation for statehood.60 constitutions in preparation for statehood.60

~~51 Senate Journal, 85th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 30, 1958), p. 435; Congressional Record, vol. 104, part 10 (June 30,~~
~~1958), p. 12650.~~
~~52 72 Stat. 339.~~
~~53 Alaska Division of Elections, Statehood Election: Final Results of Special Referendum Election, at~~
~~https://www.elections.alaska.gov/Core/Archive/58STATE/1958-statehood.pdf.~~
~~54 73 Stat. c16.~~
• January 17, 1910: House suspends the rules and passes 61 H.R. 18166 without a recorded vote.61 • June 16, 1910: Senate amends 61 H.R. 18166, then passes it on a 65-0 vote.62 • June 18, 1910: House passes Senate-amended version of 61 H.R. 18166 without a recorded vote.63 • June 20, 1910: President William Howard Taft signs 61 H.R. 18166 into law, enabling Arizona and New Mexico to write constitutions and form state governments.64 • October 10, 1910: Delegates gather in Phoenix to write a state constitution for Arizona.65 55 Valerie L. Adams, “The State of Arizona,” in Shearer, 55 Valerie L. Adams, “The State of Arizona,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 79-105. , vol. 1, pp. 79-105.
56 56 House Journal, 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 12, 1862), p. 439; , 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 12, 1862), p. 439; Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 12, , 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 12,
1862), p. 1193. 1862), p. 1193.
57 The 57 The House Journal reported the vote on tabling the bill as 72-50, while the reported the vote on tabling the bill as 72-50, while the Congressional Globe reported the vote as reported the vote as
72-52. See 72-52. See House Journal, 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (May 8, 1862), pp. 657-659, and , 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (May 8, 1862), pp. 657-659, and Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 2nd , 37th Cong., 2nd
sess. (May 8, 1862), pp. 2023-2030. sess. (May 8, 1862), pp. 2023-2030.
58 58 Senate Journal, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 20, 1863), p. 300; , 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 20, 1863), p. 300; Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. , 37th Cong., 3rd sess.
(February 20, 1863), pp. 1125-1128. (February 20, 1863), pp. 1125-1128.
59 12 Stat. 664. 59 12 Stat. 664.
60 60 House Journal, 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (January 14, 1910), p. 168; , 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (January 14, 1910), p. 168; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 1 (January 14, , vol. 45, part 1 (January 14,
1910), p. 654. 1910), p. 654.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

19

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

• 61 House Journal, 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (January 17, 1910), pp. 175-176; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 1 (January 17, 1910), pp. 702-714. 62 Senate Journal 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (June 16, 1910), pp. 452-453; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 8 (June 16, 1910), pp. 8225-8237. 63 House Journal, 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (June 18, 1910), p. 803; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 8 (June 18, 1910), pp. 8485-8487. 64 36 Stat. 557. 65 Minutes of the Constitutional Convention of the Territory of Arizona (Phoenix, AZ: Press of Phoenix Printing Co., 1910), p. 5. Congressional Research Service 19 link to page 58 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide ~~17, 1910:~~ ~~House suspends the rules and passes 61 H.R. 18166 without a~~
~~recorded vote.61~~
~~• June 16, 1910: Senate amends 61 H.R. 18166, then passes it on a 65-0 vote.62~~
~~• June 18, 1910: House passes Senate-amended version of 61 H.R. 18166 without~~
~~a recorded vote.63~~
~~• June 20, 1910: President William Howard Taft signs 61 H.R. 18166 into law,~~
~~enabling Arizona and New Mexico to write constitutions and form state~~
~~governments.64~~
~~• October 10, 1910: Delegates gather in Phoenix to write a state constitution for~~
~~Arizona.65~~
• • December 9, 1910: Delegates vote 40-12 to adopt a state constitution for Delegates vote 40-12 to adopt a state constitution for
Arizona.66 Arizona.66
• • February 9, 1911: Arizona voters ratify the state constitution by a vote of 12,534 Arizona voters ratify the state constitution by a vote of 12,534
to 3,920.67 to 3,920.67
• • August 15, 1911: President Taft vetoes 62 H.J.Res. 14, a joint resolution to admit President Taft vetoes 62 H.J.Res. 14, a joint resolution to admit
Arizona and New Mexico as states, objecting to the provision of Arizona’s Arizona and New Mexico as states, objecting to the provision of Arizona’s
constitution that allows voters to recall judges.68 constitution that allows voters to recall judges.68
• • August 17, 1911: Senator William A. Smith of Michigan reports 62 S.J.Res. 57 Senator William A. Smith of Michigan reports 62 S.J.Res. 57
from the Senate Committee on Territories. This joint resolution would admit from the Senate Committee on Territories. This joint resolution would admit
Arizona and New Mexico as states, but it would first require Arizona to remove Arizona and New Mexico as states, but it would first require Arizona to remove
judicial recall from its state constitution.69 judicial recall from its state constitution.69
• • August 18, 1911: Senate debates and passes 62 S.J.Res. 57 on a 53-9 vote.70 Senate debates and passes 62 S.J.Res. 57 on a 53-9 vote.70
• • August 19, 1911: House debates and passes 62 S.J.Res. 57 without a recorded House debates and passes 62 S.J.Res. 57 without a recorded
vote.71 vote.71

~~61 House Journal, 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (January 17, 1910), pp. 175-176; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 1 (January~~
~~17, 1910), pp. 702-714.~~
~~62 Senate Journal 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (June 16, 1910), pp. 452-453; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 8 (June 16,~~
~~1910), pp. 8225-8237.~~
~~63 House Journal, 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (June 18, 1910), p. 803; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 8 (June 18, 1910),~~
~~pp. 8485-8487.~~
~~64 36 Stat. 557.~~
~~65 Minutes of the Constitutional Convention of the Territory of Arizona (Phoenix, AZ: Press of Phoenix Printing Co.,~~
~~1910), p. 5.~~
• August 21, 1911: President Taft signs 62 S.J.Res. 57 into law, admitting New Mexico and Arizona as states once certain conditions have been met, including the amending of Arizona’s constitution to exempt judicial officers from recall.72 • December 12, 1911: Arizona voters amend the state constitution to remove judicial recall, by a 14,963 to 1,980 vote, meeting President Taft’s demand.73 • February 14, 1912: President Taft issues a proclamation admitting Arizona as the 48th state.74 Arkansas • April 30, 1803: The United States Arkansas: 25th State acquires the land that will become Arkansas from France in the Arkansas Territory created July 4, 1819 (3 Stat. 493) Louisiana Purchase.75 Arkansas admitted June 15, 1836 (5 Stat. 50) • December 16, 1818: House convenes a select committee to consider whether to create a separate territorial 66 66 Minutes of the Constitutional Convention of the Territory of Arizona, pp. 433-434. , pp. 433-434.
67 Richard E. Sloan, 67 Richard E. Sloan, Report of the Governor of Arizona to the Secretary of the Interior For the Fiscal Year Ended June
30, 1911 (Washington: GPO, 1911), p. 5. (Washington: GPO, 1911), p. 5.
68 William Howard Taft, 68 William Howard Taft, Special Message of the President of the United States Returning Without Approval House
Joint Resolution No. 14, H. Doc. 62-106 (Washington: GPO, 1911). , H. Doc. 62-106 (Washington: GPO, 1911).
69 69 Senate Journal, 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 17, 1911), p. 178; , 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 17, 1911), p. 178; Congressional Record, vol. 47, part 4 (August 17, , vol. 47, part 4 (August 17,
1911), p. 4061. 1911), p. 4061.
70 70 Senate Journal, 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 18, 1911), p. 185; , 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 18, 1911), p. 185; Congressional Record, vol. 47, part 4 (August 18, , vol. 47, part 4 (August 18,
1911), pp. 4118-4141. 1911), pp. 4118-4141.
71 71 House Journal, 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 19, 1911), p. 390; , 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 19, 1911), p. 390; Congressional Record, vol. 47, part 5 (August 19, , vol. 47, part 5 (August 19,
1911), pp. 4217-4242. 1911), pp. 4217-4242.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

20

~~link to page 58~~ ~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• August 21, 1911: President Taft signs 62 S.J.Res. 57 into law, admitting New~~
~~Mexico and Arizona as states once certain conditions have been met, including~~
~~the amending of Arizona’s constitution to exempt judicial officers from recall.72~~
~~• December 12, 1911: Arizona voters amend the state constitution to remove~~
~~judicial recall, by a 14,963 to 1,980 vote, meeting President Taft’s demand.73~~
~~• February 14, 1912: President Taft issues a proclamation admitting Arizona as~~
~~the 48th state.74~~
~~Arkansas~~
~~• April 30, 1803: The United States~~
~~Arkansas: 25th State~~
~~acquires the land that will become~~
~~Arkansas from France in the~~
~~Arkansas Territory created July 4, 1819 (3 Stat. 493)~~
~~Louisiana Purchase.75~~
~~Arkansas admitted June 15, 1836 (5 Stat. 50)~~

~~• December 16, 1818: House~~
~~convenes a select committee to consider whether to create a separate territorial~~
72 37 Stat. 39. See “New Mexico” timeline for details on its admission. 73 Voters would restore the provision in November 1912. See David R. Berman, Arizona Politics and Government: The Quest for Autonomy, Democracy, and Development (Lincoln, NE: University of Nebraska Press, 1998), p. 35. 74 37 Stat. 1728. 75 William D. Baker, “The State of Arkansas,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 106-133. Congressional Research Service 20 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide government for the “Arkansaw Country” (also spelled “Arkansas Country”) government for the “Arkansaw Country” (also spelled “Arkansas Country”)
within the existing Missouri Territory.76 within the existing Missouri Territory.76
• • December 21, 1818: Representative George Robertson of Kentucky reports a bill Representative George Robertson of Kentucky reports a bill
from the select committee creating a new territory.77 from the select committee creating a new territory.77
• • February 20, 1819: House passes the bill to establish Arkansas Territory without House passes the bill to establish Arkansas Territory without
a recorded vote on final passage, following days of debate and several close votes a recorded vote on final passage, following days of debate and several close votes
on amendments and procedural motions related to slavery in the territory.78 on amendments and procedural motions related to slavery in the territory.78
• • March 1, 1819: Senate passes the Arkansas Territory bill without a recorded vote Senate passes the Arkansas Territory bill without a recorded vote
on final passage, following a 19-14 vote to defeat a motion to recommit with on final passage, following a 19-14 vote to defeat a motion to recommit with
instructions to report the bill back with an antislavery amendment.79 instructions to report the bill back with an antislavery amendment.79
• • March 2, 1819: President James Monroe signs the law “establishing a separate President James Monroe signs the law “establishing a separate
territorial government in the southern part of the territory of Missouri.” The new territorial government in the southern part of the territory of Missouri.” The new
territory, which will come into existence on July 4, 1819, is spelled “Arkansaw” territory, which will come into existence on July 4, 1819, is spelled “Arkansaw”
in the statute, though “Arkansas” becomes the standard spelling.80 in the statute, though “Arkansas” becomes the standard spelling.80

~~72 37 Stat. 39. See “New Mexico” timeline for details on its admission.~~
~~73 Voters would restore the provision in November 1912. See David R. Berman,~~ ~~Arizona Politics and Government: The~~
~~Quest for Autonomy, Democracy, and Development~~ ~~(Lincoln, NE: University of Nebraska Press, 1998), p. 35.~~
~~74 37 Stat. 1728.~~
~~75 William D. Baker, “The State of Arkansas,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 106-133.~~
• August 1, 1835: During territorial elections, several Arkansas counties allow voters to express an opinion of statehood on their ballots. The Arkansas Advocate newspaper reports the tally as 1,942 in favor and 908 opposed.81 • January 4, 1836: Delegates gather in Little Rock to write a new state constitution for Arkansas.82 • January 30, 1836: Delegates at the Little Rock convention vote 46-4 to adopt the Arkansas state constitution.83 • March 10, 1836: Senate votes 22-17 to refer the Arkansas state constitution to a select committee.84 • March 22, 1836: Senate select committee reports out 24 S. 178, a bill admitting Arkansas as a state.85 • April 4, 1836: Senate votes 31-6 to pass 24 S. 178.86 76 76 House Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 16, 1818), pp. 107-108; , 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 16, 1818), pp. 107-108; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd , vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd
sess. (December 16, 1818), p. 413-414. sess. (December 16, 1818), p. 413-414.
77 77 House Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 21, 1818), p. 119; , 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 21, 1818), p. 119; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 21, 1818), p. 422. (December 21, 1818), p. 422.
78 78 House Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 20, 1819), p. 296; , 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 20, 1819), p. 296; Annals of Congress, vol. 34, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. vol. 34, 15th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 20, 1819), p. 1283. (February 20, 1819), p. 1283.
79 79 Senate Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1819), pp. 324-325; , 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1819), pp. 324-325; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess.
(March 1, 1819), p. 274. (March 1, 1819), p. 274.
80 3 Stat. 493. 80 3 Stat. 493.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

21

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• August 1, 1835: During territorial elections, several Arkansas counties allow~~
voters to express an opinion of statehood on their ballots. The Arkansas Advocate
~~newspaper reports the tally as 1,942 in favor and 908 opposed.81~~
~~• January 4, 1836: Delegates gather in Little Rock to write a new state~~
~~constitution for Arkansas.82~~
~~• January 30, 1836: Delegates at the Little Rock convention vote 46-4 to adopt~~
~~the Arkansas state constitution.83~~
~~• March 10, 1836: Senate votes 22-17 to refer the Arkansas state constitution to a~~
~~select committee.84~~
~~• March 22, 1836: Senate select committee reports out 24 S. 178, a bill admitting~~
~~Arkansas as a state.85~~
~~• April 4, 1836: Senate votes 31-6 to pass 24 S. 178.86~~
81 D.A. Stokes Jr., “The First State Elections in 1836,” Arkansas Historical Quarterly 20, no. 2 (Summer 1961), 126-150. 82 Journal of the Proceedings of the Convention Met to Form a Constitution and System of State Government for the People of Arkansas (Little Rock, AR: Albert Pike, 1836), p. 3. 83 Journal of the Proceedings of the Convention Met to Form a Constitution ... for the People of Arkansas, p. 51. 84 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 10, 1836), pp. 210-211; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 10, 1836), pp. 240. 85 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 22, 1836), pp. 236-237; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 22, 1836), p. 275. 86 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 4, 1836), pp. 266-267; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 4, 1836), pp. 315-316. Congressional Research Service 21 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • June 13, 1836: House votes 143-50 to pass 24 S. 178.87 House votes 143-50 to pass 24 S. 178.87
• • June 15, 1836: President Andrew Jackson signs 24 S. 178 into law, admitting President Andrew Jackson signs 24 S. 178 into law, admitting
Arkansas into the Union.88 Arkansas into the Union.88
California
• • February 2, 1848: The United States The United States
California: 31st State
acquires California from Mexico in acquires California from Mexico in
California admitted September 9, 1850 (9 Stat. 452) California admitted September 9, 1850 (9 Stat. 452)
the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.89 the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.89
• • June 3, 1849: Bennet Riley, the U.S. Army officer serving as governor of Bennet Riley, the U.S. Army officer serving as governor of
California, calls a convention with the purpose of “forming a State constitution or California, calls a convention with the purpose of “forming a State constitution or
a plan for Territorial government.”90 a plan for Territorial government.”90
• • September 1, 1849: Convention delegates begin to gather in Monterey.91 Convention delegates begin to gather in Monterey.91
• • September 5, 1849: Convention delegates vote, 28-8, to draft a constitution and Convention delegates vote, 28-8, to draft a constitution and
seek statehood for California rather than organize a territorial government.92 seek statehood for California rather than organize a territorial government.92

~~81 D.A. Stokes Jr., “The First State Elections in 1836,” Arkansas Historical Quarterly 20, no. 2 (Summer 1961), 126-~~
~~150.~~
82 ~~Journal of the Proceedings of the Convention Met to Form a Constitution and System of State Government for the~~
~~People of Arkansas~~ ~~(Little Rock, AR: Albert Pike, 1836), p. 3.~~
~~83 Journal of the Proceedings of the Convention Met to Form a Constitution ... for the People of Arkansas, p. 51.~~
~~84 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 10, 1836), pp. 210-211; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess.~~
~~(March 10, 1836), pp. 240.~~
~~85 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 22, 1836), pp. 236-237; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess.~~
~~(March 22, 1836), p. 275.~~
~~86 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 4, 1836), pp. 266-267; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 4,~~
~~1836), pp. 315-316.~~
• October 13, 1849: Convention delegates sign a state constitution for California.93 • November 13, 1849: California residents ratify the state constitution by a vote of 12,061 to 811.94 • January 29, 1850: Senator Henry Clay of Kentucky proposes what becomes the Compromise of 1850, a legislative package that includes California’s admission to the Union as a free state, in response to growing tensions between the North and South.95 • February 13, 1850: President Zachary Taylor transmits the California state constitution to Congress.96 • March 25, 1850: Senator Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois reports 31 S. 169, a bill to admit California as a state, from the Senate Committee on Territories.97 87 87 House Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (June 13, 1836), pp. 997-1004; , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (June 13, 1836), pp. 997-1004; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (June , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (June
13, 1836), pp. 550-551. 13, 1836), pp. 550-551.
88 5 Stat. 50. 88 5 Stat. 50.
89 Anne Woo-Sam, “The State of California,” in Shearer, 89 Anne Woo-Sam, “The State of California,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 134-160. , vol. 1, pp. 134-160.
90 J. Ross Browne, 90 J. Ross Browne, Report of the Debates in the Convention of California, on the Formation of the State Constitution, in
September and October, 1849 (Washington: John T. Towers, 1850), pp. 3-5. (Washington: John T. Towers, 1850), pp. 3-5.
91 Browne, 91 Browne, Report of the Debates in the Convention of California, p. 7. , p. 7.
92 Browne, 92 Browne, Report of the Debates in the Convention of California, p. 23. , p. 23.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• October 13, 1849: Convention delegates sign a state constitution for California.93~~
~~• November 13, 1849: California residents ratify the state constitution by a vote of~~
~~12,061 to 811.94~~
~~• January 29, 1850: Senator Henry Clay of Kentucky proposes what becomes the~~
~~Compromise of 1850, a legislative package that includes California’s admission~~
~~to the Union as a free state, in response to growing tensions between the North~~
~~and South.95~~
~~• February 13, 1850: President Zachary Taylor transmits the California state~~
~~constitution to Congress.96~~
~~• March 25, 1850: Senator Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois reports 31 S. 169, a bill~~
~~to admit California as a state, from the Senate Committee on Territories.97~~93 Browne, Report of the Debates in the Convention of California, p. 476. 94 Francis Newton Thorpe (ed.), The Federal and State Constitutions, Colonial Charters, and Other Organic Laws of the States, Territories, and Colonies Now or Heretofore Forming the United States of America, vol. 1 (Washington: GPO, 1909), p. 391. 95 James McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era (Oxford, UK and New York: Oxford University Press, 1988), pp. 70-75. 96 House Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (February 13, 1850), pp. 529-530; Senate Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (February 13, 1850), pp. 148; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (February 13, 1850), pp. 347-350 and 355. 97 Senate Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (March 25, 1850), p. 234; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (March 25, 1850), p. 592. Congressional Research Service 22 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • August 13, 1850: Senate debates and passes 31 S. 169 on a 34-18 vote.98 Senate debates and passes 31 S. 169 on a 34-18 vote.98
• • September 7, 1850: House debates and passes 31 S. 169 on a 150-56 vote.99 House debates and passes 31 S. 169 on a 150-56 vote.99
• • September 9, 1850: President Millard Fillmore signs 31 S. 169 into law, President Millard Fillmore signs 31 S. 169 into law,
admitting California as the 31st state.100 admitting California as the 31st state.100
Colorado
• • February 2, 1848: The United The United
Colorado: 38th State
States acquires part of the land States acquires part of the land
that will become Colorado that will become Colorado
Colorado Territory created February 28, 1861 (12 Stat. 172) Colorado Territory created February 28, 1861 (12 Stat. 172)
from Mexico in the Treaty of from Mexico in the Treaty of
Enabling and statehood law enacted March 3, 1875 (18 Stat. 474) Enabling and statehood law enacted March 3, 1875 (18 Stat. 474)
Guadalupe Hidalgo, adding to Guadalupe Hidalgo, adding to
Colorado admitted August 1, 1876 (19 Stat. 665) Colorado admitted August 1, 1876 (19 Stat. 665)
land acquired in the 1803 land acquired in the 1803
Louisiana Purchase and the 1845 annexation of Texas.101 Louisiana Purchase and the 1845 annexation of Texas.101
• • April 3, 1860: Senator James S. Green of Missouri reports 36 S. 366, which Senator James S. Green of Missouri reports 36 S. 366, which
would create a new territory, from the Senate Committee on Territories.102 would create a new territory, from the Senate Committee on Territories.102

~~93 Browne, Report of the Debates in the Convention of California, p. 476.~~
~~94 Francis Newton Thorpe (ed.),~~ ~~The Federal and State Constitutions, Colonial Charters, and Other Organic Laws of~~
~~the States, Territories, and Colonies Now or Heretofore Forming the United States of America, vol. 1 (Washington:~~
~~GPO, 1909), p. 391.~~
~~95 James McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era (Oxford, UK and New York: Oxford University Press,~~
~~1988), pp. 70-75.~~
~~96 House Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (February 13, 1850), pp. 529-530; Senate Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (February~~
~~13, 1850), pp. 148; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (February 13, 1850), pp. 347-350 and 355.~~
~~97 Senate Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (March 25, 1850), p. 234; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (March 25,~~
~~1850), p. 592.~~
• February 4, 1861: Senate passes 36 S. 366 to create the Colorado Territory without a recorded vote, after also considering the names “Jefferson” and “Idaho.”103 • February 18, 1861: House amends 36 S. 366, then passes it on a 90-44 vote.104 • February 26, 1861: Senate votes 26-18 to pass the House-amended version of 36 S. 366.105 • February 28, 1861: President James Buchanan signs 36 S. 366 into law, creating the Colorado Territory.106 • December 8, 1873: Following attempts to admit Colorado that President Andrew Johnson vetoed in 1866 and 1867,107 Delegate Jerome B. Chaffee of Colorado introduces 43 H.R. 435, a bill to “enable the people of Colorado to form a 98 98 Senate Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 13, 1850), p. 557; , 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 13, 1850), p. 557; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 13, , 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 13,
1850), p. 1573. 1850), p. 1573.
99 99 House Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (September 7, 1850), pp. 1415-1424; , 31st Cong., 1st sess. (September 7, 1850), pp. 1415-1424; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. , 31st Cong., 1st sess.
(September 7, 1850), pp. 1769-1772. (September 7, 1850), pp. 1769-1772.
100 9 Stat. 452. 100 9 Stat. 452.
101 William Virden, “The State of Colorado,” in Shearer, 101 William Virden, “The State of Colorado,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 161-190. , vol. 1, pp. 161-190.
102 102 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 1st sess. (April 3, 1860), p. 335; , 36th Cong., 1st sess. (April 3, 1860), p. 335; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 1st sess. (April 3, , 36th Cong., 1st sess. (April 3,
1860), pp. 1502. 1860), pp. 1502.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• February 4, 1861: Senate passes 36 S. 366 to create the Colorado Territory~~
~~without a recorded vote, after also considering the names “Jefferson” and~~
~~“Idaho.”103~~
~~• February 18, 1861: House amends 36 S. 366, then passes it on a 90-44 vote.104~~
~~• February 26, 1861: Senate votes 26-18 to pass the House-amended version of~~
~~36 S. 366.105~~
~~• February 28, 1861: President James Buchanan signs 36 S. 366 into law, creating~~
~~the Colorado Territory.106~~
~~• December 8, 1873: Following attempts to admit Colorado that President Andrew~~
~~Johnson vetoed in 1866 and 1867,107 Delegate Jerome B. Chaffee of Colorado~~
~~introduces 43 H.R. 435, a bill to “enable the people of Colorado to form a~~
103 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 4, 1861), p. 184; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 4, 1861), pp. 728-729. 104 House Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 18, 1861), pp. 345-348; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 18, 1861), pp. 1003-1005. 105 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 313-314; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 1205-1206. 106 12 Stat. 172. 107 Ben: Perley Poore (ed.), Veto Messages of the Presidents of the United States, with the Action of Congress Thereon (Washington: GPO, 1886), pp. 305-308 and 331-337. Congressional Research Service 23 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide constitution and State government, and for the admission of the said State into constitution and State government, and for the admission of the said State into
the Union on an equal footing with the original states.”108 the Union on an equal footing with the original states.”108
• • June 8, 1874: House votes to suspend the rules and pass 43 H.R. 435.109 House votes to suspend the rules and pass 43 H.R. 435.109
• • February 24, 1875: Senate debates and amends 43 H.R. 435, then passes it.110 Senate debates and amends 43 H.R. 435, then passes it.110
• • March 3, 1875: House concurs in Senate amendments with a 164-76 vote to House concurs in Senate amendments with a 164-76 vote to
suspend the rules and pass the bill.111 suspend the rules and pass the bill.111
• • March 3, 1875: President Ulysses S. Grant signs 43 H.R. 435 into law.112 President Ulysses S. Grant signs 43 H.R. 435 into law.112
• • December 20, 1875: Delegates gather in Denver to write a state constitution for Delegates gather in Denver to write a state constitution for
Colorado.113 Colorado.113
• • March 14, 1876: Colorado convention delegates vote 30-0 to approve the state Colorado convention delegates vote 30-0 to approve the state
constitution.114 constitution.114

~~103 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 4, 1861), p. 184; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(February 4, 1861), pp. 728-729.~~
~~104 House Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 18, 1861), pp. 345-348; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(February 18, 1861), pp. 1003-1005.~~
~~105 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 313-314; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(February 26, 1861), pp. 1205-1206.~~
~~106 12 Stat. 172.~~
107 Ben: Perley Poore (ed.), Veto Messages of the Presidents of the United States, with the Action of Congress Thereon
~~(Washington: GPO, 1886), pp. 305-308 and 331-337.~~
• July 1, 1876: Colorado residents vote 15,443 to 4,062 in favor of ratifying the new state constitution.115 • August 1, 1876: President Grant issues a proclamation admitting Colorado as the 38th state.116 Connecticut • April 23, 1662: King Charles II Connecticut: Fifth State grants a royal charter to the “Governor Connecticut ratified Constitution January 9, 1788 and Company of the English Colony of Connecticut in New-England, in America.”117 • July 4, 1776: Connecticut joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence from Great Britain.118 • July 9, 1778: Connecticut signs the Articles of Confederation.119 108 108 House Journal, 43rd Cong., 1st sess. (December 8, 1873), p. 80; , 43rd Cong., 1st sess. (December 8, 1873), p. 80; Congressional Record, vol. 2, part 1 (December 8, , vol. 2, part 1 (December 8,
1873), p. 89. 1873), p. 89.
109 The 109 The House Journal reported the vote as 170-66, while the reported the vote as 170-66, while the Congressional Record reported the vote as 171-66. See reported the vote as 171-66. See
House Journal, 43rd Cong., 1st sess. (June 8, 1874), pp. 1132-1133, and , 43rd Cong., 1st sess. (June 8, 1874), pp. 1132-1133, and Congressional Record, vol. 2, part 5 (June 8, , vol. 2, part 5 (June 8,
1874), pp. 4691-4692. 1874), pp. 4691-4692.
110 The 110 The Senate Journal reported the vote as 43-13, while the reported the vote as 43-13, while the Congressional Record reported the vote as 42-12. See reported the vote as 42-12. See
Senate Journal, 43rd Cong., 2nd sess. (February 24, 1875), pp. 337-339, and , 43rd Cong., 2nd sess. (February 24, 1875), pp. 337-339, and Congressional Record, vol. 3, part 3 , vol. 3, part 3
(February 24, 1875), pp. 1671-1690. (February 24, 1875), pp. 1671-1690.
111 111 House Journal, 43rd Cong., 2nd sess. (March 3, 1875), pp. 644-645; , 43rd Cong., 2nd sess. (March 3, 1875), pp. 644-645; Congressional Record, vol. 3, part 3 (March 3, , vol. 3, part 3 (March 3,
1875), pp. 2238-2239. 1875), pp. 2238-2239.
112 18 Stat. 474. 112 18 Stat. 474.
113 113 Proceedings of the Constitutional Convention Held in Denver, December 20, 1875 to Frame a Constitution for the
State of Colorado (Denver, CO: Smith-Brooks Press, 1907), p. 15. (Denver, CO: Smith-Brooks Press, 1907), p. 15.
114 114 Proceedings of the Constitutional Convention ... for the State of Colorado, p. 708. , p. 708.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• July 1, 1876: Colorado residents vote 15,443 to 4,062 in favor of ratifying the~~
~~new state constitution.115~~
~~• August 1, 1876: President Grant issues a proclamation admitting Colorado as the~~
~~38th state.116~~
~~Connecticut~~
~~• April 23, 1662: King Charles II~~
~~Connecticut: Fifth State~~
~~grants a royal charter to the “Governor~~
~~Connecticut ratified Constitution January 9, 1788~~
~~and Company of the English Colony~~
~~of Connecticut in New-England, in~~
~~America.”117~~
~~• July 4, 1776: Connecticut joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence~~
~~from Great Britain.118~~
~~• July 9, 1778: Connecticut signs the Articles of Confederation.119~~
115 J. Warner Mills and John H. Gabriel, Mills Annotated Statutes of the State of Colorado, revised ed., vol. 1 (Denver, CO: Mills Publishing Co., 1912), p. c24. 116 19 Stat. 665. 117 Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 1, pp. 529-536. 118 Worthington Chauncey Ford (ed.), Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789, vol. 5 (Washington: GPO, 1906) (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. 119 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677. Congressional Research Service 24 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • May 14-September 17, 1787: Connecticut’s three delegates participate in the Connecticut’s three delegates participate in the
Constitutional Convention.120 Constitutional Convention.120
• • January 9, 1788: Connecticut’s convention ratifies the Constitution, 128-40.121 Connecticut’s convention ratifies the Constitution, 128-40.121
Delaware
• • August 24, 1682: James, Duke of James, Duke of
York, gives the land that will become York, gives the land that will become
Delaware: First State
Delaware to William Penn, who had Delaware to William Penn, who had
Delaware ratified Constitution December 7, 1787 Delaware ratified Constitution December 7, 1787
acquired Pennsylvania the prior year acquired Pennsylvania the prior year
from the Duke’s brother, King Charles II.122 from the Duke’s brother, King Charles II.122
• • 1704: A new legislature holds its first meeting in New Castle, though the three A new legislature holds its first meeting in New Castle, though the three
counties continue to share a governor with neighboring Pennsylvania and do not counties continue to share a governor with neighboring Pennsylvania and do not
formally adopt the name “Delaware” until 1776.123 formally adopt the name “Delaware” until 1776.123

~~115 J. Warner Mills and John H. Gabriel, Mills Annotated Statutes of the State of Colorado, revised ed., vol. 1 (Denver,~~
~~CO: Mills Publishing Co., 1912), p. c24.~~
~~116 19 Stat. 665.~~
~~117 Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 1, pp. 529-536.~~
~~118 Worthington Chauncey Ford (ed.), Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789, vol. 5 (Washington: GPO,~~
~~1906) (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.~~
~~119 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677.~~
• July 4, 1776: Delaware joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence from Great Britain.124 • May 5, 1779: Delaware signs the Articles of Confederation.125 • May 14-September 17, 1787: Delaware’s five delegates participate in the Constitutional Convention.126 • December 7, 1787: Delaware’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a 30-0 vote, making it the first state to join the new federal government.127 Florida • February 22, 1819: The United Florida: 27th State States acquires Florida from Florida Territory created March 30, 1822 (3 Stat. 654) Spain in the Adams-Onís Florida admitted March 3, 1845 (5 Stat. 742) Treaty.128 120 Max Farrand (ed.), 120 Max Farrand (ed.), The Records of the Federal Convention of 1787, vol. 3 (New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, , vol. 3 (New Haven, CT: Yale University Press,
1911), p. 557. 1911), p. 557.
121 Jonathan Elliot (ed.), 121 Jonathan Elliot (ed.), The Debates in the Several State Conventions on the Adoption of the Federal Constitution, vol. , vol.
1 (Washington: Printed For the Author, 1836), pp. 321-322; Merrill Jensen (ed.), 1 (Washington: Printed For the Author, 1836), pp. 321-322; Merrill Jensen (ed.), The Documentary History of the
Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 3 (Madison, WI: State Historical Society of Wisconsin, 1978), pp. 554-562. , vol. 3 (Madison, WI: State Historical Society of Wisconsin, 1978), pp. 554-562.
122 “The Duke of York’s Deed of Feoffment of Newcastle, and Twelve Miles Circle, to William Penn, August 24, 122 “The Duke of York’s Deed of Feoffment of Newcastle, and Twelve Miles Circle, to William Penn, August 24,
1682,” in 1682,” in Votes and Proceedings of the House of Representatives of the Province of Pennsylvania, vol. 1, part 1 , vol. 1, part 1
(Philadelphia: B. Franklin and D. Hall, 1752), pp. (Philadelphia: B. Franklin and D. Hall, 1752), pp. xxxvi--xxxvii. .
123 Eileen B. Cooper, David King, and Mary Jane Mallonee, “Colonial Delaware Legal Bibliography,” in Chiorazzi and 123 Eileen B. Cooper, David King, and Mary Jane Mallonee, “Colonial Delaware Legal Bibliography,” in Chiorazzi and
Most, Most, Prestatehood Legal Materials, vol. 1, pp. 175-217. , vol. 1, pp. 175-217.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• July 4, 1776: Delaware joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence from~~
~~Great Britain.124~~
~~• May 5, 1779: Delaware signs the Articles of Confederation.125~~
~~• May 14-September 17, 1787: Delaware’s five delegates participate in the~~
~~Constitutional Convention.126~~
~~• December 7, 1787: Delaware’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a 30-0~~
~~vote, making it the first state to join the new federal government.127~~
~~Florida~~
~~• February 22, 1819: The United~~
~~Florida: 27th State~~
~~States acquires Florida from~~
~~Florida Territory created March 30, 1822 (3 Stat. 654)~~
~~Spain in the Adams-Onís~~
~~Florida admitted March 3, 1845 (5 Stat. 742)~~
~~Treaty.128~~124 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. 125 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 14 (May 5, 1779), p. 548. 126 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 558. 127 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, p. 319; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 3, pp. 105-113. 128 Andrew K. Frank, “The State of Florida,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 245-270. Congressional Research Service 25 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • February 6, 1822: Senator William Smith of South Carolina reports from the Senator William Smith of South Carolina reports from the
Senate Judiciary Committee a bill to establish a territorial government in Senate Judiciary Committee a bill to establish a territorial government in
Florida.129 Florida.129
• • March 8, 1822: Senate passes Florida Territory bill without a recorded vote.130 Senate passes Florida Territory bill without a recorded vote.130
• • March 27, 1822: House passes an amended version of the Florida Territory House passes an amended version of the Florida Territory
bill.131 Senate concurs in House amendments without a recorded vote.132 bill.131 Senate concurs in House amendments without a recorded vote.132
• • March 30, 1822: President James Monroe signs the law “for the establishment of President James Monroe signs the law “for the establishment of
a territorial government in Florida.”133 a territorial government in Florida.”133
• • May 1, 1837: In a referendum on statehood, Florida residents vote 2,214 to 1,274 In a referendum on statehood, Florida residents vote 2,214 to 1,274
in favor of seeking admission to the Union.134 in favor of seeking admission to the Union.134
• • December 3, 1838: Delegates to a convention convened by the Florida Delegates to a convention convened by the Florida
Territory’s Legislative Council gather in St. Joseph to write a state constitution.135 Territory’s Legislative Council gather in St. Joseph to write a state constitution.135

~~124 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.~~
~~125 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 14 (May 5, 1779), p. 548.~~
~~126 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 558.~~
~~127 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, p. 319; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 3, pp. 105-113.~~
~~128 Andrew K. Frank, “The State of Florida,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 245-270.~~
• January 11, 1839: Delegates vote 55-1 to approve the Florida state constitution.136 • May 6, 1839: Florida voters ratify the new state constitution by a vote of 2,071 to 1,958.137 • January 7, 1845: Representative Aaron V. Brown of Tennessee reports 28 H.R. 497, a bill to admit Florida and Iowa as states, from the House Committee on Territories.138 • February 13, 1845: House votes 144-48 to pass 28 H.R. 497.139 • March 1, 1845: Senate votes 36-9 to pass 28 H.R. 497.140 129 129 Senate Journal, 17th Cong., 1st sess. (February 6, 1822), p. 115; , 17th Cong., 1st sess. (February 6, 1822), p. 115; Annals of Congress, vol. 38, 17th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 38, 17th Cong., 1st sess.
(February 6, 1822), p. 182. (February 6, 1822), p. 182.
130 130 Senate Journal, 17th Cong., 1st sess. (March 8, 1822), p. 176; , 17th Cong., 1st sess. (March 8, 1822), p. 176; Annals of Congress, vol. 38, 17th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 38, 17th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 8, 1822), p. 279. (March 8, 1822), p. 279.
131 The 131 The Annals of Congress states that the “question on the passage of the bill was…carried without opposition,” while states that the “question on the passage of the bill was…carried without opposition,” while
the the House Journal does not describe the vote. See does not describe the vote. See House Journal, 17th Cong., 1st sess. (March 27, 1822), p. 404 and , 17th Cong., 1st sess. (March 27, 1822), p. 404 and
Annals of Congress, vol. 39, 17th Cong., 1st sess. (March 27, 1822), p. 1379. , vol. 39, 17th Cong., 1st sess. (March 27, 1822), p. 1379.
132 132 Senate Journal, 17th Cong., 1st sess. (March 27, 1822), p. 229; , 17th Cong., 1st sess. (March 27, 1822), p. 229; Annals of Congress, vol. 38, 17th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 38, 17th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 27, 1822), p. 344. (March 27, 1822), p. 344.
133 3 Stat. 654. 133 3 Stat. 654.
134 R.K. Call, “Proclamation of Governor Call and Returns of the 1837 Election,” in 134 R.K. Call, “Proclamation of Governor Call and Returns of the 1837 Election,” in Florida Becomes a State, ed. , ed.
Dorothy Dodd (Tallahassee, FL: Florida Centennial Commission, 1945), pp. 109-112. Dorothy Dodd (Tallahassee, FL: Florida Centennial Commission, 1945), pp. 109-112.
135 135 Journal of the Proceedings of a Convention of Delegates to Form a Constitution for the People of Florida, Held at
St. Joseph, December, 1838 (St. Joseph, FL: Printed at the “Times” Office, 1839), p. 3. (St. Joseph, FL: Printed at the “Times” Office, 1839), p. 3.
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~~link to page 37~~ ~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• January 11, 1839: Delegates vote 55-1 to approve the Florida state~~
~~constitution.136~~
~~• May 6, 1839: Florida voters ratify the new state constitution by a vote of 2,071~~
~~to 1,958.137~~
~~• January 7, 1845: Representative Aaron V. Brown of Tennessee reports 28 H.R.~~
~~497, a bill to admit Florida and Iowa as states, from the House Committee on~~
~~Territories.138~~
~~• February 13, 1845: House votes 144-48 to pass 28 H.R. 497.139~~
~~• March 1, 1845: Senate votes 36-9 to pass 28 H.R. 497.140~~
136 Journal of the Proceedings of a Convention ... to Form a Constitution for the People of Florida, p. 117. 137 Dodd, Florida Becomes a State, pp. 69-70; Robert Raymond Reid, “Proclamation of President of the Constitutional Convention,” in Dodd, Florida Becomes a State, p. 340; Reid, “Statement of the Votes For and Against the Constitution,” in Dodd, Florida Becomes a State, pp. 376-378. 138 House Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 7, 1845), p. 177; Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 7, 1845), p. 104. 139 The House Journal reported the vote as 144-48, while the Congressional Globe reported the vote as 145-46. See House Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 13, 1845), pp. 375-381, and Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 13, 1845), pp. 282-286. 140 Senate Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1845), pp. 232-233; Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1845), pp. 377-383. Congressional Research Service 26 link to page 37 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • March 3, 1845: President John Tyler signs 28 H.R. 497 to admit Florida and President John Tyler signs 28 H.R. 497 to admit Florida and
Iowa as states. Florida’s admission is immediate, whereas Iowa’s admission is Iowa as states. Florida’s admission is immediate, whereas Iowa’s admission is
delayed until December 1846 due to a dispute over its borders.141 delayed until December 1846 due to a dispute over its borders.141
Georgia
• • June 9, 1732: King George II grants a King George II grants a royal charter for the colony of royal charter for the colony of ~~Georgia.142~~
Georgia: Fourth State Georgia.142 Georgia ratified Constitution January 2, 1788 • • July 4, 1776: Georgia joins 12 other : Georgia joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence from colonies in declaring independence from
Great Britain.143 Great Britain.143
~~Georgia: Fourth State~~
• • July 24, 1778: Georgia signs the Georgia signs the
Articles of Confederation.Articles of Confederation.
~~Georgia ratified Constitution January 2, 1788~~
~~144~~
144 • • May 14-September 17, 1787:
Georgia’s four delegates participate in the Georgia’s four delegates participate in the Constitutional Convention.145 Constitutional Convention.145
• • December 31, 1787: Georgia’s convention votes 26-0 to ratify the Georgia’s convention votes 26-0 to ratify the
Constitution.146 Constitution.146
• • January 2, 1788: Georgia’s convention delegates sign a deed formally ratifying Georgia’s convention delegates sign a deed formally ratifying
the Constitution.147 the Constitution.147

~~136 Journal of the Proceedings of a Convention ... to Form a Constitution for the People of Florida, p. 117.~~
~~137 Dodd, Florida Becomes a State, pp. 69-70; Robert Raymond Reid, “Proclamation of President of the Constitutional~~
~~Convention,” in Dodd, Florida Becomes a State, p. 340; Reid, “Statement of the Votes For and Against the~~
~~Constitution,” in Dodd, Florida Becomes a State, pp. 376-378.~~
~~138 House Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 7, 1845), p. 177; Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (January~~
~~7, 1845), p. 104.~~
~~139 The House Journal reported the vote as 144-48, while the Congressional Globe reported the vote as 145-46. See~~
House Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 13, 1845), pp. 375-381, and Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess.
~~(February 13, 1845), pp. 282-286.~~
~~140 Senate Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1845), pp. 232-233; Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(March 1, 1845), pp. 377-383.~~
Hawaii • July 7, 1898: The United States Hawaii: 50th State annexes the Republic of Hawaii.148 Hawaii Territory created April 30, 1900 (31 Stat. 141) • December 6, 1899: Senator Shelby Statehood law enacted March 18, 1959 (73 Stat. 4) M. Cullom of Illinois introduces 56 S. Hawaii admitted August 21, 1959 (73 Stat. c74) 222, a bill to create a territorial government for the Hawaiian islands.149 • March 1, 1900: Senate amends and passes 56 S. 222 without a recorded vote.150 • April 6, 1900: House amends and passes 56 S. 222 by a 120-28 vote.151 141 5 Stat. 742. See the 141 5 Stat. 742. See the “Iowa” timeline for detatils on its admission process. timeline for detatils on its admission process.
142 Thorpe, 142 Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 2, pp. 765-777. , vol. 2, pp. 765-777.
143 143 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. , vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.
144 144 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 24, 1778), p. 716. , vol. 11 (July 24, 1778), p. 716.
145 Farrand, 145 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 559. , vol. 3, p. 559.
146 146 Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 3, pp. 269-284. , vol. 3, pp. 269-284.
147 Elliot, 147 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 323-324. , vol. 1, pp. 323-324.
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27

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~Hawaii~~
~~• July 7, 1898: The United States~~
~~Hawaii: 50th State~~
~~annexes the Republic of Hawaii.148~~
~~Hawaii Territory created April 30, 1900 (31 Stat. 141)~~
~~• December 6, 1899: Senator Shelby~~
~~Statehood law enacted March 18, 1959 (73 Stat. 4)~~
~~M. Cullom of Illinois introduces 56 S.~~
~~Hawaii admitted August 21, 1959 (73 Stat. c74)~~
~~222, a bill to create a territorial~~
~~government for the Hawaiian islands.149~~
~~• March 1, 1900: Senate amends and passes 56 S. 222 without a recorded vote.150~~
~~• April 6, 1900: House amends and passes 56 S. 222 by a 120-28 vote.151~~
148 J.D. Bowers, “The State of Hawaii,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 295-324. 149 Senate Journal, 56th Cong., 1st sess. (December 6, 1899), p. 29; Congressional Record, vol. 33, part 1 (December 6, 1899), p. 89. 150 Senate Journal, 56th Cong., 1st sess. (March 1, 1900), p. 170; Congressional Record, vol. 33, part 3 (March 1, 1900), pp. 2438-2449. 151 The House Journal did not report the vote, but it appears in the Congressional Record. See House Journal, 56th Cong., 1st sess. (April 6, 1900), p. 443, and Congressional Record, vol. 33, part 4 (April 6, 1900), pp. 3851-3866. Congressional Research Service 27 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • April 25, 1900: Senate approves conference report on 56 S. 222 without a Senate approves conference report on 56 S. 222 without a
recorded vote.152 recorded vote.152
• • April 27, 1900: House approves conference report on 56 S. 222 by a 138-54 House approves conference report on 56 S. 222 by a 138-54
vote.153 vote.153
• • April 30, 1900: President William McKinley signs 56 S. 222 into law, creating President William McKinley signs 56 S. 222 into law, creating
the Territory of Hawaii.154 the Territory of Hawaii.154
• • November 5, 1940: Hawaii Territory voters back statehood, 46,174 to 22,428, in Hawaii Territory voters back statehood, 46,174 to 22,428, in
a plebiscite that asked, “Do you favor statehood for Hawaii?”155 a plebiscite that asked, “Do you favor statehood for Hawaii?”155
• • April 3, 1950: Delegates to a convention convened by the territorial legislature Delegates to a convention convened by the territorial legislature
gather in Honolulu to draft a state constitution.156 gather in Honolulu to draft a state constitution.156
• • July 22, 1950: Delegates at the Honolulu convention vote 60-1 to adopt a state Delegates at the Honolulu convention vote 60-1 to adopt a state
constitution.157 constitution.157
• • November 7, 1950: Hawaii residents vote 82,788 to 27,109 in favor of ratifying Hawaii residents vote 82,788 to 27,109 in favor of ratifying
the state constitution.158 the state constitution.158
• • January 9, 1959: Senator James E. Murray of Montana introduces 86 S. 50, a Senator James E. Murray of Montana introduces 86 S. 50, a
bill to admit Hawaii as a state. The latest effort followed decades of debate and bill to admit Hawaii as a state. The latest effort followed decades of debate and

~~148 J.D. Bowers, “The State of Hawaii,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 295-324.~~
~~149 Senate Journal, 56th Cong., 1st sess. (December 6, 1899), p. 29; Congressional Record, vol. 33, part 1 (December 6,~~
~~1899), p. 89.~~
~~150 Senate Journal, 56th Cong., 1st sess. (March 1, 1900), p. 170; Congressional Record, vol. 33, part 3 (March 1, 1900),~~
~~pp. 2438-2449.~~
~~151 The House Journal did not report the vote, but it appears in the Congressional Record. See House Journal, 56th~~
~~Cong., 1st sess. (April 6, 1900), p. 443, and Congressional Record, vol. 33, part 4 (April 6, 1900), pp. 3851-3866.~~
unsuccessful attempts to achieve statehood, but the bill is introduced less than a week after Alaska is admitted as the 49th state.159 • March 11, 1959: Senate passes 86 S. 50 on a 76-15 vote.160 • March 12, 1959: House passes 86 S. 50 on a 323-89 vote.161 • March 18, 1959: President Dwight Eisenhower signs 86 S. 50 into law.162 • June 27, 1959: Hawaii voters endorse statehood in a three-part referendum. The vote is 132,773 to 7,971 on the question, “Shall Hawaii immediately be admitted into the Union as a State?”163 152 152 Senate Journal, 56th Cong., 1st sess. (April 25, 1900), pp. 304-305; , 56th Cong., 1st sess. (April 25, 1900), pp. 304-305; Congressional Record, vol. 33, part 5 (April 25, , vol. 33, part 5 (April 25,
1900), pp. 4648-4651. 1900), pp. 4648-4651.
153 153 House Journal, 56th Cong., 1st sess. (April 27, 1900), p. 512; , 56th Cong., 1st sess. (April 27, 1900), p. 512; Congressional Record, vol. 33, part 5 (April 27, 1900), , vol. 33, part 5 (April 27, 1900),
pp. 4766-4767. pp. 4766-4767.
154 31 Stat. 141. 154 31 Stat. 141.
155 Roger Bell, 155 Roger Bell, Last Among Equals: Hawaiian Statehood and American Politics (Honolulu, HI: University of Hawai’i (Honolulu, HI: University of Hawai’i
Press, 1984), pp. 71-78 and 353. Press, 1984), pp. 71-78 and 353.
156 156 Proceedings of the Constitutional Convention of Hawaii, 1950, vol. 1 (Honolulu, HI: State of Hawaii, 1960), p. 1. , vol. 1 (Honolulu, HI: State of Hawaii, 1960), p. 1.
157 157 Proceedings of the Constitutional Convention of Hawaii, vol. 1, p. 139. , vol. 1, p. 139.
158 U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, 158 U.S. Congress, Senate Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, State Constitution of Hawaii, committee print, 85th , committee print, 85th
Cong., 1st sess., March 28, 1957, p. iii. Cong., 1st sess., March 28, 1957, p. iii.
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28

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~unsuccessful attempts to achieve statehood, but the bill is introduced less than a~~
~~week after Alaska is admitted as the 49th state.159~~
~~• March 11, 1959: Senate passes 86 S. 50 on a 76-15 vote.160~~
~~• March 12, 1959: House passes 86 S. 50 on a 323-89 vote.161~~
~~• March 18, 1959: President Dwight Eisenhower signs 86 S. 50 into law.162~~
~~• June 27, 1959: Hawaii voters endorse statehood in a three-part referendum. The~~
~~vote is 132,773 to 7,971 on the question, “Shall Hawaii immediately be admitted~~
~~into the Union as a State?”163~~159 Senate Journal, 86th Cong., 1st sess. (January 9, 1959), p. 26; Congressional Record, vol. 105, part 1 (January 9, 1959), p. 228. 160 Senate Journal, 86th Cong., 1st sess. (March 11, 1959), p. 175; Congressional Record, vol. 105, part 3 (March 11, 1959), p. 3890. 161 House Journal, 86th Cong., 1st sess. (March 12, 1959), p. 284; Congressional Record, vol. 105, part 3 (March 12, 1959), pp. 4038-4039. 162 73 Stat. 4. 163 Letter from William F. Quinn, Governor of the Territory of Hawaii, to Dwight Eisenhower, President of the United States of America, July 2, 1959, at https://www.eisenhowerlibrary.gov/sites/default/files/research/online-documents/hawaii-statehood/1959-07-02-quinn-to-dde.pdf. Congressional Research Service 28 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • August 21, 1959: President Eisenhower issues Proclamation 3309, “Admission President Eisenhower issues Proclamation 3309, “Admission
of the State of Hawaii Into the Union,” formally admitting Hawaii as the 50th of the State of Hawaii Into the Union,” formally admitting Hawaii as the 50th
state.164 state.164
Idaho
• • June 15, 1846: The United States The United States
Idaho: 43rd State
acquires the Oregon Country, acquires the Oregon Country,
Idaho Territory created March 3, 1863 (12 Stat. 808) Idaho Territory created March 3, 1863 (12 Stat. 808)
including the land that will become including the land that will become
Idaho admitted July 3, 1890 (26 Stat. 215) Idaho admitted July 3, 1890 (26 Stat. 215)
Idaho, following a period of joint Idaho, following a period of joint
occupation with Great Britain.165 occupation with Great Britain.165
• • February 11, 1863: Representative James M. Ashley of Ohio reports 37 H.R. Representative James M. Ashley of Ohio reports 37 H.R.
738, a bill to create a new territorial government, from the House Committee on 738, a bill to create a new territorial government, from the House Committee on
Territories.166 Territories.166
• • February 12, 1863: House amends and passes 37 H.R. 738.167 House amends and passes 37 H.R. 738.167
• • March 3, 1863: Senate amends 37 H.R. 738, naming the new territory “Idaho” Senate amends 37 H.R. 738, naming the new territory “Idaho”
instead of “Montana,” then passes it on a 25-12 vote.168 instead of “Montana,” then passes it on a 25-12 vote.168 House concurs in Senate House concurs in Senate

~~159 Senate Journal, 86th Cong., 1st sess. (January 9, 1959), p. 26; Congressional Record, vol. 105, part 1 (January 9,~~
~~1959), p. 228.~~
~~160 Senate Journal, 86th Cong., 1st sess. (March 11, 1959), p. 175; Congressional Record, vol. 105, part 3 (March 11,~~
~~1959), p. 3890.~~
~~161 House Journal, 86th Cong., 1st sess. (March 12, 1959), p. 284; Congressional Record, vol. 105, part 3 (March 12,~~
~~1959), pp. 4038-4039.~~
~~162 73 Stat. 4.~~
~~163 Letter from William F. Quinn, Governor of the Territory of Hawaii, to Dwight Eisenhower, President of the United~~
~~States of America, July 2, 1959, at https://www.eisenhowerlibrary.gov/sites/default/files/research/online-documents/~~
~~hawaii-statehood/1959-07-02-quinn-to-dde.pdf.~~
changes to 37 H.R. 738 by a vote of 65-33.169 President Abraham Lincoln signs 37 H.R. 738 into law, creating the Territory of Idaho.170 • April 2, 1889: Idaho’s territorial governor calls a constitutional convention.171 • July 4, 1889: Delegates meet in Boise to begin writing a state constitution.172 • August 6, 1889: Delegates at the Boise convention vote 51-0 to adopt a state constitution for Idaho.173 • November 5, 1889: Voters in Idaho ratify the state constitution by a 12,398 to 1,773 margin.174 164 73 Stat. c74. 164 73 Stat. c74.
165 Katherine G. Aiken, “The State of Idaho,” in Shearer, 165 Katherine G. Aiken, “The State of Idaho,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 325-356. , vol. 1, pp. 325-356.
166 The 166 The Congressional Globe reported the bill number as H.R. 626. See reported the bill number as H.R. 626. See House Journal, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (February , 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (February
11, 1863), p. 369, and 11, 1863), p. 369, and Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 11, 1863), pp. 884-885. , 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 11, 1863), pp. 884-885.
167 The 167 The House Journal records the vote as 86-40, while the records the vote as 86-40, while the Congressional Globe records the vote as 85-39. See records the vote as 85-39. See House
Journal, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 12, 1863), pp. 379-381, and , 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 12, 1863), pp. 379-381, and Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. , 37th Cong., 3rd sess.
(February 12, 1863), p. 914. (February 12, 1863), p. 914.
168 168 Senate Journal, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (March 3, 1863), pp. 415-416; , 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (March 3, 1863), pp. 415-416; Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. , 37th Cong., 3rd sess.
(March 3, 1863), pp. 1507-1509. (March 3, 1863), pp. 1507-1509.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~changes to 37 H.R. 738 by a vote of 65-33.169 President Abraham Lincoln signs~~
~~37 H.R. 738 into law, creating the Territory of Idaho.170~~
~~• April 2, 1889: Idaho’s territorial governor calls a constitutional convention.171~~
~~• July 4, 1889: Delegates meet in Boise to begin writing a state constitution.172~~
~~• August 6, 1889: Delegates at the Boise convention vote 51-0 to adopt a state~~
~~constitution for Idaho.173~~
~~• November 5, 1889: Voters in Idaho ratify the state constitution by a 12,398 to~~
~~1,773 margin.174~~169 The House Journal did not report the vote, but it appears in the Congressional Globe. See House Journal, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (March 3, 1863), pp. 587, and Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (March 3, 1863), p. 1542. 170 12 Stat. 808. 171 E.A. Stevenson, “Proclamation,” April 2, 1889, Idaho State Archives, at https://idahohistory.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p16281coll38/id/52. 172 I.W. Hart (ed.), Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention of Idaho, 1889, vol. 1 (Caldwell, ID: Caxton Printers, 1912), p. 1. 173 Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention of Idaho, vol. 2, p. 2037. 174 George L. Shoup, Report of the Governor of Idaho to the Secretary of the Interior, 1890 (Washington: GPO, 1890), p. 88. Congressional Research Service 29 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • January 13, 1890: Representative Isaac S. Struble of Iowa introduces 51 H.R. Representative Isaac S. Struble of Iowa introduces 51 H.R.
4562, a bill “to provide for the admission of the State of Idaho.”175 4562, a bill “to provide for the admission of the State of Idaho.”175
• • April 3, 1890: House passes 51 H.R. 4562 by a 129-1 vote.176 House passes 51 H.R. 4562 by a 129-1 vote.176
• • July 1, 1890: Senate passes 51 H.R. 4562 without a recorded vote.177 Senate passes 51 H.R. 4562 without a recorded vote.177
• • July 3, 1890: President Benjamin Harrison signs 51 H.R. 4562 into law, President Benjamin Harrison signs 51 H.R. 4562 into law,
admitting Idaho as the 43rd state.178 admitting Idaho as the 43rd state.178
Illinois
• • September 3, 1783: The United The United
States acquires the land that will States acquires the land that will
Illinois: 21st State
become Illinois from Great become Illinois from Great
Il inois Territory created March 1, 1809 (2 Stat. 514) Il inois Territory created March 1, 1809 (2 Stat. 514)
Britain in the Treaty of Paris.179 Britain in the Treaty of Paris.179
Enabling law enacted April 18, 1818 (3 Stat. 428) Enabling law enacted April 18, 1818 (3 Stat. 428)
• •
Il inois admitted December 3, 1818 (3 Stat. 536) Il inois admitted December 3, 1818 (3 Stat. 536)
December 31, 1808: Delegate Delegate
Jesse B. Thomas of Indiana Jesse B. Thomas of Indiana
reports a bill to divide the Indiana Territory into two territories, from a select reports a bill to divide the Indiana Territory into two territories, from a select
committee appointed to examine the issue.180 committee appointed to examine the issue.180

~~169 The House Journal did not report the vote, but it appears in the Congressional Globe. See House Journal, 37th~~
~~Cong., 3rd sess. (March 3, 1863), pp. 587, and Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 3rd sess. (March 3, 1863), p. 1542.~~
~~170 12 Stat. 808.~~
~~171 E.A. Stevenson, “Proclamation,” April 2, 1889, Idaho State Archives, at https://idahohistory.contentdm.oclc.org/~~
~~digital/collection/p16281coll38/id/52.~~
~~172 I.W. Hart (ed.), Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention of Idaho, 1889, vol. 1 (Caldwell, ID:~~
~~Caxton Printers, 1912), p. 1.~~
~~173 Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention of Idaho, vol. 2, p. 2037.~~
~~174 George L. Shoup, Report of the Governor of Idaho to the Secretary of the Interior, 1890 (Washington: GPO, 1890),~~
~~p. 88.~~
• January 18, 1809: House votes 69-37 to pass the bill dividing Indiana Territory.181 • January 31, 1809: Senate passes the Indiana Territory bill without a recorded vote.182 • February 3, 1809: President Thomas Jefferson signs the bill to split the Indiana Territory, creating the Illinois Territory effective March 1, 1809.183 • January 23, 1818: Delegate Nathaniel Pope of Illinois reports a bill allowing Illinois Territory residents to write a constitution and form a state government in preparation for admission to the Union, from a select committee appointed to review the territorial government’s petition seeking statehood.184 175 According to the 175 According to the Congressional Record, Rep. Edwin H. Conger of Iowa introduced the bill on behalf of Rep. , Rep. Edwin H. Conger of Iowa introduced the bill on behalf of Rep.
Struble, who was “absent on account of sickness.” See Struble, who was “absent on account of sickness.” See House Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (January 13, 1890), p. 110, , 51st Cong., 1st sess. (January 13, 1890), p. 110,
and and Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 1 (January 13, 1890), p. 523. , vol. 21, part 1 (January 13, 1890), p. 523.
176 176 House Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (April 3, 1890), p. 430; , 51st Cong., 1st sess. (April 3, 1890), p. 430; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 3 (April 3, 1890), , vol. 21, part 3 (April 3, 1890),
pp. 3005-3006. pp. 3005-3006.
177 177 Senate Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (July 1, 1890), p. 411; , 51st Cong., 1st sess. (July 1, 1890), p. 411; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 7 (July 1, 1890), p. , vol. 21, part 7 (July 1, 1890), p.
6834. 6834.
178 26 Stat. 215. 178 26 Stat. 215.
179 Michael E. Meagher, “The State of Illinois,” in Shearer, 179 Michael E. Meagher, “The State of Illinois,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 357-382. , vol. 1, pp. 357-382.
180 180 House Journal, 10th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 31, 1808), p. 432; , 10th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 31, 1808), p. 432; Annals of Congress, vol. 19, 10th Cong., 2nd sess. vol. 19, 10th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 31, 1808), pp. 971-973. (December 31, 1808), pp. 971-973.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• January 18, 1809: House votes 69-37 to pass the bill dividing Indiana~~
~~Territory.181~~
~~• January 31, 1809: Senate passes the Indiana Territory bill without a recorded~~
~~vote.182~~
~~• February 3, 1809: President Thomas Jefferson signs the bill to split the Indiana~~
~~Territory, creating the Illinois Territory effective March 1, 1809.183~~
~~• January 23, 1818: Delegate Nathaniel Pope of Illinois reports a bill allowing~~
~~Illinois Territory residents to write a constitution and form a state government in~~
~~preparation for admission to the Union, from a select committee appointed to~~
~~review the territorial government’s petition seeking statehood.184~~181 House Journal, 10th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1809), pp. 477-478; Annals of Congress, vol. 19, 10th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1809), pp. 1093-1095. 182 Senate Journal, 10th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 31, 1809), p. 336; Annals of Congress, vol. 19, 10th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 31, 1809), p. 339. 183 2 Stat. 514. 184 House Journal, 15th Cong., 1st sess. (January 23, 1818), p. 174; Annals of Congress, vol. 31, 15th Cong., 1st sess. (January 23, 1818), p. 814. Congressional Research Service 30 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • April 6, 1818: House passes the Illinois bill without a recorded vote.185 House passes the Illinois bill without a recorded vote.185
• • April 14, 1818: Senate passes an amended version of the Illinois bill without a Senate passes an amended version of the Illinois bill without a
recorded vote.186 recorded vote.186
• • April 15, 1818: House concurs in Senate amendments to the Illinois bill without House concurs in Senate amendments to the Illinois bill without
a recorded vote.187 a recorded vote.187
• • April 18, 1818: President James Monroe signs the Illinois enabling legislation President James Monroe signs the Illinois enabling legislation
into law.188 into law.188
• • August 3-26, 1818: Delegates meet in Kaskaskia and draft a state constitution Delegates meet in Kaskaskia and draft a state constitution
for Illinois.189 for Illinois.189
• • November 20, 1818: Representative Richard C. Anderson Jr. of Kentucky Representative Richard C. Anderson Jr. of Kentucky
reports a joint resolution admitting Illinois to the Union, from a select committee reports a joint resolution admitting Illinois to the Union, from a select committee
appointed to review the state constitution.190 appointed to review the state constitution.190
• • November 23, 1818: House passes the resolution admitting Illinois to the Union House passes the resolution admitting Illinois to the Union
on a 117-34 vote.191 on a 117-34 vote.191

~~181 House Journal, 10th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1809), pp. 477-478; Annals of Congress, vol. 19, 10th Cong., 2nd~~
~~sess. (January 18, 1809), pp. 1093-1095.~~
~~182 Senate Journal, 10th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 31, 1809), p. 336; Annals of Congress, vol. 19, 10th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(January 31, 1809), p. 339.~~
~~183 2 Stat. 514.~~
~~184 House Journal, 15th Cong., 1st sess. (January 23, 1818), p. 174; Annals of Congress, vol. 31, 15th Cong., 1st sess.~~
~~(January 23, 1818), p. 814.~~
• December 1, 1818: Senate passes the Illinois statehood resolution without a recorded vote.192 • December 3, 1818: President Monroe signs into law the resolution admitting Illinois as the 21st state.193 Indiana • September 3, 1783: The United Indiana: 19th State States acquires the land that will Indiana Territory created July 4, 1800 (2 Stat. 58) become Indiana from Great Britain in Enabling law enacted April 19, 1816 (3 Stat. 289) the Treaty of Paris.194 Indiana admitted December 11, 1816 (3 Stat. 399) 185 185 House Journal, 15th Cong., 1st sess. (April 6, 1818), p. 428; , 15th Cong., 1st sess. (April 6, 1818), p. 428; Annals of Congress, vol. 32, 15th Cong., 1st sess. (April , vol. 32, 15th Cong., 1st sess. (April
6, 1818), p. 1681. 6, 1818), p. 1681.
186 186 Senate Journal, 15th Cong., 1st sess. (April 14, 1818), pp. 357-358; , 15th Cong., 1st sess. (April 14, 1818), pp. 357-358; Annals of Congress, vol. 31, 15th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 31, 15th Cong., 1st sess.
(April 14, 1818), p. 365. (April 14, 1818), p. 365.
187 187 House Journal, 15th Cong., 1st sess. (April 15, 1818), pp. 466-467; , 15th Cong., 1st sess. (April 15, 1818), pp. 466-467; Annals of Congress, vol. 32, 15th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 32, 15th Cong., 1st sess.
(April 15, 1818), p. 1738. (April 15, 1818), p. 1738.
188 3 Stat. 428. 188 3 Stat. 428.
189 Richard V. Carpenter, “The Illinois Constitutional Convention of 1818,” 189 Richard V. Carpenter, “The Illinois Constitutional Convention of 1818,” Journal of the Illinois State Historical
Society 6, no. 3 (October 1913), pp. 327-424; Illinois Legislative Reference Bureau, 6, no. 3 (October 1913), pp. 327-424; Illinois Legislative Reference Bureau, Constitutional Conventions in
Illinois (Springfield, IL: Illinois State Journal Co., 1918), pp. 9-11. (Springfield, IL: Illinois State Journal Co., 1918), pp. 9-11.
190 190 House Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (November 20, 1818), p. 25; , 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (November 20, 1818), p. 25; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess.
(November 20, 1818), pp. 297-298. (November 20, 1818), pp. 297-298.
191 191 House Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (November 23, 1818), pp. 30-31; , 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (November 23, 1818), pp. 30-31; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd , vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd
sess. (November 23, 1818), pp. 305-311. sess. (November 23, 1818), pp. 305-311.
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31

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• December 1, 1818: Senate passes the Illinois statehood resolution without a~~
~~recorded vote.192~~
~~• December 3, 1818: President Monroe signs into law the resolution admitting~~
~~Illinois as the 21st state.193~~
~~Indiana~~
~~• September 3, 1783: The United~~
~~Indiana: 19th State~~
~~States acquires the land that will~~
~~Indiana Territory created July 4, 1800 (2 Stat. 58)~~
~~become Indiana from Great Britain in~~
~~Enabling law enacted April 19, 1816 (3 Stat. 289)~~
~~the Treaty of Paris.194~~
~~Indiana admitted December 11, 1816 (3 Stat. 399)~~192 Senate Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 1, 1818), p. 43; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 1, 1818), p. 32. 193 3 Stat. 536. 194 John P. Hundley, “The State of Indiana,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 383-409. Congressional Research Service 31 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • March 20, 1800: Representative
~~• March 20, 1800: Representative~~
William Craik of Maryland reports a bill to William Craik of Maryland reports a bill to divide the Territory Northwest of the divide the Territory Northwest of the
River Ohio (Northwest Territory) into two parts.195 River Ohio (Northwest Territory) into two parts.195
• • March 31, 1800: House passes the Northwest Territory bill without a recorded House passes the Northwest Territory bill without a recorded
vote.196 vote.196
• • April 21, 1800: Senate amends and passes the Northwest Territory bill without a Senate amends and passes the Northwest Territory bill without a
recorded vote.197 recorded vote.197
• • May 3, 1800: House agrees to a compromise version of the Northwest Territory House agrees to a compromise version of the Northwest Territory
bill without a recorded vote.198 bill without a recorded vote.198
• • May 5, 1800: Senate agrees to the compromise version of the Northwest Senate agrees to the compromise version of the Northwest
Territory bill without a recorded vote.199 Territory bill without a recorded vote.199
• • May 7, 1800: President John Adams signs the bill to split the Northwest President John Adams signs the bill to split the Northwest
Territory, creating Indiana Territory in the west effective July 4, 1800.200 Territory, creating Indiana Territory in the west effective July 4, 1800.200
• • January 5, 1816: Delegate Jonathan Jennings of Indiana reports a bill enabling Delegate Jonathan Jennings of Indiana reports a bill enabling
Indiana to write a constitution and form a state government in preparation for Indiana to write a constitution and form a state government in preparation for
admission to the Union.201 admission to the Union.201
• • March 30, 1816: House passes the Indiana bill on a 108-3 vote.202 House passes the Indiana bill on a 108-3 vote.202

~~192 Senate Journal, 15th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 1, 1818), p. 43; Annals of Congress, vol. 33, 15th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(December 1, 1818), p. 32.~~
~~193 3 Stat. 536.~~
~~194 John P. Hundley, “The State of Indiana,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 383-409.~~
• April 13, 1816: Senate passes an amended version of the Indiana bill without a recorded vote.203 • April 15, 1816: House agrees to the Senate’s amendments to the Indiana bill without a recorded vote.204 • April 19, 1816: President James Madison signs the Indiana enabling act.205 • June 10-29, 1816: Delegates meet in Corydon and draft a state constitution for Indiana.206 195 195 House Journal, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (March 20, 1800), p. 635; , 6th Cong., 1st sess. (March 20, 1800), p. 635; Annals of Congress, vol. 10, 6th Cong. (March 20, , vol. 10, 6th Cong. (March 20,
1800), 1st sess., p. 635. 1800), 1st sess., p. 635.
196 196 House Journal, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (March 31, 1800), p. 646; , 6th Cong., 1st sess. (March 31, 1800), p. 646; Annals of Congress, vol. 10, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (March , vol. 10, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (March
31, 1800), p. 649. 31, 1800), p. 649.
197 197 Senate Journal, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (April 21, 1800), p. 77; , 6th Cong., 1st sess. (April 21, 1800), p. 77; Annals of Congress, vol. 10, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (April 21, , vol. 10, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (April 21,
1800), p. 164. 1800), p. 164.
198 198 House Journal, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (May 3, 1800), p. 695; , 6th Cong., 1st sess. (May 3, 1800), p. 695; Annals of Congress, vol. 10, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (May 3, , vol. 10, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (May 3,
1800), pp. 698-699. 1800), pp. 698-699.
199 199 Senate Journal, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (May 5, 1800), p. 86; , 6th Cong., 1st sess. (May 5, 1800), p. 86; Annals of Congress, vol. 10, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (May 5, , vol. 10, 6th Cong., 1st sess. (May 5,
1800), p. 173. 1800), p. 173.
200 2 Stat. 58. 200 2 Stat. 58.
201 201 House Journal, 14th Cong., 1st sess. (January 5, 1816), p. 128; , 14th Cong., 1st sess. (January 5, 1816), p. 128; Annals of Congress, vol. 29, 14th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 29, 14th Cong., 1st sess.
(January 5, 1816), pp. 459-461. (January 5, 1816), pp. 459-461.
202 202 House Journal, 14th Cong., 1st sess. (March 30, 1816), pp. 554-555; , 14th Cong., 1st sess. (March 30, 1816), pp. 554-555; Annals of Congress, vol. 29, 14th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 29, 14th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 30, 1816), p. 1300. (March 30, 1816), p. 1300.
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• 203 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 1st sess. (April 13, 1816), p. 450; Annals of Congress, vol. 29, 14th Cong., 1st sess. (April 13, 1816), p. 315. 204 House Journal, 14th Cong., 1st sess. (April 15, 1816), p. 651; Annals of Congress, vol. 29, 14th Cong., 1st sess. (April 15, 1816), p. 1373. 205 3 Stat. 289. 206 Journal of the Convention of the Indiana Territory (Louisville: Butler & Wood, 1816), pp. 3 and 68-69. Congressional Research Service 32 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide ~~13, 1816:~~ ~~Senate passes an amended version of the Indiana bill without a~~
~~recorded vote.203~~
~~• April 15, 1816: House agrees to the Senate’s amendments to the Indiana bill~~
~~without a recorded vote.204~~
~~• April 19, 1816: President James Madison signs the Indiana enabling act.205~~
~~• June 10-29, 1816: Delegates meet in Corydon and draft a state constitution for~~
~~Indiana.206~~
• • December 2, 1816: Senate appoints a select committee to investigate whether Senate appoints a select committee to investigate whether
additional legislation is necessary to complete Indiana’s admission as a state.207 additional legislation is necessary to complete Indiana’s admission as a state.207
• • December 4, 1816: Senator Jeremiah Morrow of Ohio reports from the select Senator Jeremiah Morrow of Ohio reports from the select
committee a resolution declaring Indiana admitted to the Union.208 committee a resolution declaring Indiana admitted to the Union.208
• • December 6, 1816: Senate amends and passes the Indiana statehood resolution Senate amends and passes the Indiana statehood resolution
without a recorded vote.209 without a recorded vote.209
• • December 9, 1816: House passes Indiana statehood resolution.210 House passes Indiana statehood resolution.210
• • December 11, 1816: President Madison signs the resolution admitting Indiana as President Madison signs the resolution admitting Indiana as
the 19th state.211 the 19th state.211
Iowa
• • April 30, 1803: The United States The United States
acquires the land that will become Iowa acquires the land that will become Iowa
Iowa: 29th State
from France in the Louisiana from France in the Louisiana
Iowa Territory created July 3, 1838 (5 Stat. 235) Iowa Territory created July 3, 1838 (5 Stat. 235)
Purchase.212 Purchase.212
Iowa admitted December 28, 1846 (9 Stat. 117) Iowa admitted December 28, 1846 (9 Stat. 117)
• • March 14, 1838: Senator Thomas Senator Thomas
Morris of Ohio introduces 25 S. 269, a bill to create a new Iowa Territory.213 Morris of Ohio introduces 25 S. 269, a bill to create a new Iowa Territory.213
• • June 1, 1838: Senate passes 25 S. 269 without a recorded vote.214 Senate passes 25 S. 269 without a recorded vote.214

~~203 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 1st sess. (April 13, 1816), p. 450; Annals of Congress, vol. 29, 14th Cong., 1st sess. (April~~
~~13, 1816), p. 315.~~
~~204 House Journal, 14th Cong., 1st sess. (April 15, 1816), p. 651; Annals of Congress, vol. 29, 14th Cong., 1st sess. (April~~
~~15, 1816), p. 1373.~~
~~205 3 Stat. 289.~~
~~206 Journal of the Convention of the Indiana Territory (Louisville: Butler & Wood, 1816), pp. 3 and 68-69.~~
• June 6, 1838: House amends 25 S. 269 before passing it on a 118-51 vote.215 Senate passes the House-amended bill without a recorded vote, following a 33-6 vote against tabling the bill.216 • June 12, 1838: President Martin Van Buren signs 25 S. 269 into law, creating the Iowa Territory effective July 3, 1838.217 • April 1, 1844: Iowa Territory voters, by a margin of 6,976 to 4,181, support calling a convention to write a state constitution.218 207 207 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 2, 1816), p. 5; , 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 2, 1816), p. 5; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 2, 1816), pp. 9-10. (December 2, 1816), pp. 9-10.
208 208 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 4, 1816), pp. 27-28; , 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 4, 1816), pp. 27-28; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd , vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd
sess. (December 4, 1816), p. 18. sess. (December 4, 1816), p. 18.
209 209 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 6, 1816), pp. 33-34; , 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 6, 1816), pp. 33-34; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd , vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd
sess. (December 6, 1816), pp. 20-21. sess. (December 6, 1816), pp. 20-21.
210 The 210 The House Journal did not report a specific vote count, while the did not report a specific vote count, while the Annals of Congress reported that the vote was reported that the vote was
unanimous. See unanimous. See House Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 9, 1816), p. 44, and , 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 9, 1816), p. 44, and Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th , vol. 30, 14th
Cong., 2nd sess. (December 9, 1816), p. 254. Cong., 2nd sess. (December 9, 1816), p. 254.
211 3 Stat. 399. 211 3 Stat. 399.
212 William Roba, “The State of Iowa,” in Shearer, 212 William Roba, “The State of Iowa,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 410-433. , vol. 1, pp. 410-433.
213 213 Senate Journal, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 14, 1838), pp. 290-291; , 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 14, 1838), pp. 290-291; Congressional Globe, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. , 25th Cong., 2nd sess.
(March 14, 1838), p. 239. (March 14, 1838), p. 239.
214 214 Senate Journal, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 1, 1838), pp. 440-441. The , 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 1, 1838), pp. 440-441. The Congressional Globe did not report passage did not report passage
of the bill. of the bill.
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~~link to page 30~~ ~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• June 6, 1838: House amends 25 S. 269 before passing it on a 118-51 vote.215~~
~~Senate passes the House-amended bill without a recorded vote, following a 33-6~~
~~vote against tabling the bill.216~~
~~• June 12, 1838: President Martin Van Buren signs 25 S. 269 into law, creating the~~
~~Iowa Territory effective July 3, 1838.217~~
~~• April 1, 1844: Iowa Territory voters, by a margin of 6,976 to 4,181, support~~
~~calling a convention to write a state constitution.218~~215 House Journal, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 6, 1838), pp. 1042-1044; Congressional Globe, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 6, 1838), p. 432. 216 Senate Journal, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 6, 1838), pp. 448-449; Congressional Globe, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 6, 1838), pp. 434-435. 217 5 Stat. 235. 218 Roba, “The State of Iowa,” p. 423. Congressional Research Service 33 link to page 29 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • October 7-November 1, 1844: Delegates meet in Iowa City and draft a state Delegates meet in Iowa City and draft a state
constitution.219 constitution.219
• • March 3, 1845: President John Tyler signs 28 H.R. 497, a bill to admit Florida President John Tyler signs 28 H.R. 497, a bill to admit Florida
and Iowa as states.220 However, Iowa’s admission is made conditional on the and Iowa as states.220 However, Iowa’s admission is made conditional on the
territory accepting “truncated boundaries” for the state. Iowa voters twice—on territory accepting “truncated boundaries” for the state. Iowa voters twice—on
April 7, 1845, and August 4, 1845—reject ratification of a state constitution with April 7, 1845, and August 4, 1845—reject ratification of a state constitution with
those borders.221 those borders.221
• • May 4-19, 1846: Delegates meet in Iowa City and draft a second state Delegates meet in Iowa City and draft a second state
constitution, with modified boundaries.222 constitution, with modified boundaries.222
• • August 3, 1846: Iowa voters ratify their new constitution by a vote of 9,492 to Iowa voters ratify their new constitution by a vote of 9,492 to
9,036.223 9,036.223
• • August 4, 1846: President James K. Polk signs into law the compromise over President James K. Polk signs into law the compromise over
Iowa’s borders, resolving the dispute and clearing the way for statehood.224 Iowa’s borders, resolving the dispute and clearing the way for statehood.224
• • December 17, 1846: Representative Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois reports 29 Representative Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois reports 29
H.R. 557, a bill to admit Iowa as a state, from the House Committee on H.R. 557, a bill to admit Iowa as a state, from the House Committee on
Territories.225 Territories.225
• • December 21, 1846: House passes 29 H.R. 557 without a recorded vote.226 House passes 29 H.R. 557 without a recorded vote.226

~~215 House Journal, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 6, 1838), pp. 1042-1044; Congressional Globe, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (June~~
~~6, 1838), p. 432.~~
~~216 Senate Journal, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 6, 1838), pp. 448-449; Congressional Globe, 25th Cong., 2nd sess. (June~~
~~6, 1838), pp. 434-435.~~
~~217 5 Stat. 235.~~
~~218 Roba, “The State of Iowa,” p. 423.~~
• December 24, 1846: Senate passes 29 H.R. 557 without a recorded vote following a 40-2 vote to reject an amendment.227 • December 28, 1846: President Polk signs 29 H.R. 557 into law, admitting Iowa into the Union.228 Kansas • April 30, 1803: The United States acquires part of the land that will Kansas: 34th State become Kansas from France in the Kansas Territory created May 30, 1854 (10 Stat. 277) Louisiana Purchase, with additional Kansas admitted January 29, 1861 (12 Stat. 126) 219 219 Journal of the Convention for the Formation of a Constitution for the State of Iowa, Begun and Held at Iowa City,
on the First Monday of October, Eighteen Hundred and Forty-Four (Iowa City, IA: Jesse Williams, 1845), pp. 3 and (Iowa City, IA: Jesse Williams, 1845), pp. 3 and
211. 211.
220 5 Stat. 742; see the 220 5 Stat. 742; see the “Florida” timeline for additional details on this legislation. timeline for additional details on this legislation.
221 Roba, “The State of Iowa,” p. 424. 221 Roba, “The State of Iowa,” p. 424.
222 222 Journal of the Convention for the Formation of a Constitution for the State of Iowa, Begun and Held at Iowa City,
on the First Monday of May, Eighteen Hundred and Forty-Six (Iowa City, IA: Abraham M. Palmer, 1846), pp. 23 and (Iowa City, IA: Abraham M. Palmer, 1846), pp. 23 and
109; James Alton James, 109; James Alton James, Constitution and Admission of Iowa Into the Union (Baltimore, MD: Johns Hopkins Press, (Baltimore, MD: Johns Hopkins Press,
1900), pp. 33-34. 1900), pp. 33-34.
223 James Clarke, “Proclamation by the Governor of the Territory of Iowa” (September 9, 1846) in U.S. Congress, 223 James Clarke, “Proclamation by the Governor of the Territory of Iowa” (September 9, 1846) in U.S. Congress,
House, House, Constitution of Iowa, 29th Cong., 2nd sess., December 15, 1846, H.Doc. 29-16, p. 17. , 29th Cong., 2nd sess., December 15, 1846, H.Doc. 29-16, p. 17.
224 9 Stat. 52; James, 224 9 Stat. 52; James, Constitution and Admission of Iowa Into the Union, pp. 37-39. , pp. 37-39.
225 225 House Journal, 29th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 17, 1846), p. 62; , 29th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 17, 1846), p. 62; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 2nd sess. , 29th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 17, 1846), p. 53. (December 17, 1846), p. 53.
226 226 House Journal, 29th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 21, 1846), p. 81; , 29th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 21, 1846), p. 81; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 2nd sess. , 29th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 21, 1846), pp. 57-58. (December 21, 1846), pp. 57-58.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• December 24, 1846: Senate passes 29 H.R. 557 without a recorded vote~~
~~following a 40-2 vote to reject an amendment.227~~
~~• December 28, 1846: President Polk signs 29 H.R. 557 into law, admitting Iowa~~
~~into the Union.228~~
~~Kansas~~
~~• April 30, 1803: The United States~~
~~acquires part of the land that will~~
~~Kansas: 34th State~~
~~become Kansas from France in the~~
~~Kansas Territory created May 30, 1854 (10 Stat. 277)~~
~~Louisiana Purchase, with additional~~
~~Kansas admitted January 29, 1861 (12 Stat. 126)~~227 Senate Journal, 29th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 24, 1846), pp. 69-70; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 24, 1846), pp. 79-82. 228 9 Stat. 117. Congressional Research Service 34 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
territory acquired in 1845 in the territory acquired in 1845 in the
annexation of Texas.229 annexation of Texas.229
• • December 14, 1853: Senator Augustus Caesar Dodge of Iowa introduces 33 S. Senator Augustus Caesar Dodge of Iowa introduces 33 S.
22, a bill to create a new Nebraska Territory.230 22, a bill to create a new Nebraska Territory.230
• • January 31, 1854: Representative William A. Richardson of Illinois reports 33 Representative William A. Richardson of Illinois reports 33
H.R. 236, a bill creating new territorial governments for Kansas and Nebraska, H.R. 236, a bill creating new territorial governments for Kansas and Nebraska,
from the House Committee on Territories.231 from the House Committee on Territories.231
• • March 3, 1854: Senate votes 37-14 to pass 33 S. 22, which as amended would Senate votes 37-14 to pass 33 S. 22, which as amended would
create two new territories, Kansas and Nebraska.232 create two new territories, Kansas and Nebraska.232
• • May 22, 1854: House passes an amended version of 33 H.R. 236 on a 113-100 House passes an amended version of 33 H.R. 236 on a 113-100
vote, in lieu of voting on the Senate-passed 33 S. 22.233 vote, in lieu of voting on the Senate-passed 33 S. 22.233
• • May 25, 1854: Senate passes 33 H.R. 236 on a 35-13 vote.234 Senate passes 33 H.R. 236 on a 35-13 vote.234
• • May 30, 1854: President Franklin Pierce signs 33 H.R. 236 into law, creating the President Franklin Pierce signs 33 H.R. 236 into law, creating the
Kansas and Nebraska territories and repealing the 1820 Missouri Compromise, Kansas and Nebraska territories and repealing the 1820 Missouri Compromise,
which would have barred slavery in the new territories. Instead, the Kansas-which would have barred slavery in the new territories. Instead, the Kansas-
Nebraska Act leaves residents of the two territories “perfectly free to form and Nebraska Act leaves residents of the two territories “perfectly free to form and
regulate their domestic institutions in their own way.”235 regulate their domestic institutions in their own way.”235
• • February 2, 1858: President James Buchanan recommends that Congress admit President James Buchanan recommends that Congress admit
Kansas under a pro-slavery state constitution drafted in Lecompton amid years of Kansas under a pro-slavery state constitution drafted in Lecompton amid years of

~~227 Senate Journal, 29th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 24, 1846), pp. 69-70; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(December 24, 1846), pp. 79-82.~~
~~228 9 Stat. 117.~~
violence in the territory between anti- and pro-slavery factions. Faced with opposition in the House, the law signed by President Buchanan on May 4, 1858, requires a “fair and free” vote by Kansans on the Lecompton Constitution as a condition of statehood. Kansas voters overwhelmingly reject the Lecompton Constitution in an August 2, 1858 referendum.236 • July 5, 1859: Delegates gather in Wyandotte to draft a new state constitution, the territory’s fourth constitutional convention following gatherings in Topeka in 1855, Lecompton in 1857, and Leavenworth in 1858.237 • July 29, 1859: The Wyandotte convention votes 34-13 to adopt a new, anti- slavery state constitution.238 229 M.H. Hoeflich, “The State of Kansas,” in Shearer, 229 M.H. Hoeflich, “The State of Kansas,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 434-459. , vol. 1, pp. 434-459.
230 230 Senate Journal, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (December 14, 1853), p. 44; , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (December 14, 1853), p. 44; Congressional Globe, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. , 33rd Cong., 1st sess.
(December 14, 1853), p. 44. (December 14, 1853), p. 44.
231 231 House Journal, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (January 31, 1854), p. 296; , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (January 31, 1854), p. 296; Congressional Globe, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (January , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (January
31, 1854), pp. 294-297. 31, 1854), pp. 294-297.
232 232 Senate Journal, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1854), pp. 236-237; , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1854), pp. 236-237; Congressional Globe, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. , 33rd Cong., 1st sess.
(March 3, 1854), pp. 531-532. (March 3, 1854), pp. 531-532.
233 233 House Journal, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May 22, 1854), pp. 923-924; , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May 22, 1854), pp. 923-924; Congressional Globe, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May
22, 1854), p. 1254. 22, 1854), p. 1254.
234 234 Senate Journal, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May 25, 1854), pp. 412-413; , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May 25, 1854), pp. 412-413; Congressional Globe, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May
25, 1854), p. 1321. 25, 1854), p. 1321.
235 10 Stat. 277. Additional documents related to the Kansas-Nebraska Act are available in the Library of Congress 235 10 Stat. 277. Additional documents related to the Kansas-Nebraska Act are available in the Library of Congress
research guide “Kansas-Nebraska Act: Primary Documents in American History,” at https://guides.loc.gov/kansas-research guide “Kansas-Nebraska Act: Primary Documents in American History,” at https://guides.loc.gov/kansas-
nebraska-act. nebraska-act.
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~~violence in the territory between anti- and pro-slavery factions. Faced with~~
~~opposition in the House, the law signed by President Buchanan on May 4, 1858,~~
~~requires a “fair and free” vote by Kansans on the Lecompton Constitution as a~~
~~condition of statehood. Kansas voters overwhelmingly reject the Lecompton~~
~~Constitution in an August 2, 1858 referendum.236~~
~~• July 5, 1859: Delegates gather in Wyandotte to draft a new state constitution, the~~
~~territory’s fourth constitutional convention following gatherings in Topeka in~~
~~1855, Lecompton in 1857, and Leavenworth in 1858.237~~
~~• July 29, 1859: The Wyandotte convention votes 34-13 to adopt a new, anti-~~
~~slavery state constitution.238~~236 McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom, pp. 167-169; 11 Stat. 269. 237 Kansas Historical Society, “Kansas Constitutions,” in Kansapedia, at https://www.kshs.org/kansapedia/kansas-constitutions/16532. 238 Harry G. Larimer (ed.), Kansas Constitutional Convention: A Reprint of the Proceedings and Debates of the (continued...) Congressional Research Service 35 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • October 4, 1859: Kansas voters ratify the Wyandotte Constitution by a vote of Kansas voters ratify the Wyandotte Constitution by a vote of
10,421 to 5,530.239 10,421 to 5,530.239
• • February 15, 1860: Representative Galusha A. Grow of Pennsylvania introduces Representative Galusha A. Grow of Pennsylvania introduces
36 H.R. 23, a bill to admit Kansas to the Union.240 36 H.R. 23, a bill to admit Kansas to the Union.240
• • April 11, 1860: House votes to pass 36 H.R. 23.241 House votes to pass 36 H.R. 23.241
• • January 21, 1861: Senate amends 36 H.R. 23 and passes it by a 36-16 vote.242 Senate amends 36 H.R. 23 and passes it by a 36-16 vote.242
• • January 28, 1861: House votes 119-41 to suspend the rules and take up 36 H.R. House votes 119-41 to suspend the rules and take up 36 H.R.
23, then agrees to the Senate’s amendments without a recorded vote.243 23, then agrees to the Senate’s amendments without a recorded vote.243
• • January 29, 1861: President Buchanan signs 36 H.R. 23 into law, admitting President Buchanan signs 36 H.R. 23 into law, admitting
Kansas as the 34th state.244 Kansas as the 34th state.244
Kentucky
• • December 31, 1776: Virginia’s General Virginia’s General
Assembly establishes Kentucky County Assembly establishes Kentucky County
Kentucky: 15th State
in the western part of the in the western part of the
Kentucky admitted June 1, 1792 (1 Stat. 189) Kentucky admitted June 1, 1792 (1 Stat. 189)
commonwealth.245 commonwealth.245

~~236 McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom, pp. 167-169; 11 Stat. 269.~~
~~237 Kansas Historical Society, “Kansas Constitutions,” in Kansapedia, at https://www.kshs.org/kansapedia/kansas-~~
~~constitutions/16532.~~
~~238 Harry G. Larimer (ed.),~~ ~~Kansas Constitutional Convention: A Reprint of the Proceedings and Debates of the~~
• November 1, 1780: Virginia’s General Assembly splits Kentucky into multiple counties and subsequently refers to the area as the District of Kentucky.246 • July 3, 1788: Congress, still operating under the Articles of Confederation, decides to postpone a decision on statehood for Kentucky until the new federal government convenes in 1789.247 • December 18, 1789: Virginia’s General Assembly enacts a law “concerning the erection of the district of Kentuckey [sic] into an independent state,” clearing the way for Kentucky to secede from Virginia and enter the Union on its own.248 Convention Which Framed the Constitution of Kansas at Wyandotte in July, 1859 (Topeka, KS: Kansas State Printing (Topeka, KS: Kansas State Printing
Plant, 1920), pp. 570-571. Plant, 1920), pp. 570-571.
239 Samuel Medary, “Proclamation” (November 1, 1859) in U.S. Congress, House Committee on Territories, 239 Samuel Medary, “Proclamation” (November 1, 1859) in U.S. Congress, House Committee on Territories, Kansas, ,
report to accompany H.R. 23, 36th Cong., 1st sess., H.Rept. 36-255, March 29, 1860, pp. 20-21. report to accompany H.R. 23, 36th Cong., 1st sess., H.Rept. 36-255, March 29, 1860, pp. 20-21.
240 240 House Journal, 36th Cong., 1st sess. (February 15, 1860), p. 294; , 36th Cong., 1st sess. (February 15, 1860), p. 294; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 1st sess. , 36th Cong., 1st sess.
(February 15, 1860), p. 795. (February 15, 1860), p. 795.
241 The 241 The House Journal reported the vote as 135-72, while the reported the vote as 135-72, while the Congressional Globe reported the vote as 134-73. See reported the vote as 134-73. See
House Journal, 36th Cong., 1st sess. (April 11, 1860), pp. 707-708, and , 36th Cong., 1st sess. (April 11, 1860), pp. 707-708, and Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 1st sess. (April , 36th Cong., 1st sess. (April
11, 1860), p. 1672. 11, 1860), p. 1672.
242 242 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 21, 1861), pp. 127-128; , 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 21, 1861), pp. 127-128; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. , 36th Cong., 2nd sess.
(January 21, 1861), pp. 487-489. (January 21, 1861), pp. 487-489.
243 243 House Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 28, 1861), pp. 236-237; , 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 28, 1861), pp. 236-237; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. , 36th Cong., 2nd sess.
(January 28, 1861), pp. 603-604. (January 28, 1861), pp. 603-604.
244 12 Stat. 126. 244 12 Stat. 126.
245 William Waller Hening (ed.), 245 William Waller Hening (ed.), The Statutes at Large; Being a Collection of All the Laws of Virginia, From the First
Session of the Legislature, in the Year 1619, vol. 9 (Richmond, VA: J&G Cochran, Printers, 1821), pp. 257-261. , vol. 9 (Richmond, VA: J&G Cochran, Printers, 1821), pp. 257-261.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• November 1, 1780: Virginia’s General Assembly splits Kentucky into multiple~~
~~counties and subsequently refers to the area as the District of Kentucky.246~~
~~• July 3, 1788: Congress, still operating under the Articles of Confederation,~~
~~decides to postpone a decision on statehood for Kentucky until the new federal~~
~~government convenes in 1789.247~~
~~• December 18, 1789: Virginia’s General Assembly enacts a law “concerning the~~
~~erection of the district of Kentuckey [sic] into an independent state,” clearing the~~
~~way for Kentucky to secede from Virginia and enter the Union on its own.248~~246 Hening, Statutes at Large, vol. 10, pp. 315-317 and 436. 247 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 34 (July 3, 1788), pp. 287-294. 248 Hening, Statutes at Large, vol. 13, pp. 17-21. Congressional Research Service 36 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • July 28, 1790: Delegates gathered in Danville vote 24-18 that “it is expedient Delegates gathered in Danville vote 24-18 that “it is expedient
for, and the will of, the good people of the District of Kentucky that the same be for, and the will of, the good people of the District of Kentucky that the same be
erected into an Independent State.”249 erected into an Independent State.”249
• • December 8, 1790: President George Washington asks Congress to consider President George Washington asks Congress to consider
Kentucky’s application for statehood.250 Kentucky’s application for statehood.250
• • December 14, 1790: Senate creates a committee to consider Kentucky Senate creates a committee to consider Kentucky
statehood.251 statehood.251
• • January 3, 1791: Senator Philip Schuyler of New York reports the committee’s Senator Philip Schuyler of New York reports the committee’s
recommendation that Kentucky be granted statehood.252 recommendation that Kentucky be granted statehood.252
• • January 4, 1791: Senate committee assigned to consider Kentucky statehood Senate committee assigned to consider Kentucky statehood
reports a bill admitting Kentucky to the Union.253 reports a bill admitting Kentucky to the Union.253
• • January 12, 1791: Senate passes the Kentucky bill without a recorded vote.254 Senate passes the Kentucky bill without a recorded vote.254
• • January 28, 1791: House passes the Kentucky bill without a recorded vote.255 House passes the Kentucky bill without a recorded vote.255
• • February 4, 1791: President Washington signs into law the act declaring that on President Washington signs into law the act declaring that on
June 1, 1792, Kentucky will “be received and admitted into this Union, as a new June 1, 1792, Kentucky will “be received and admitted into this Union, as a new
and entire member of the United States of America.”256 and entire member of the United States of America.”256
• • April 2, 1792: Delegates gather in Danville to write a state constitution.257 Delegates gather in Danville to write a state constitution.257

~~246 Hening, Statutes at Large, vol. 10, pp. 315-317 and 436.~~
~~247 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 34 (July 3, 1788), pp. 287-294.~~
~~248 Hening, Statutes at Large, vol. 13, pp. 17-21.~~
• April 19, 1792: Delegates in Danville adopt a state constitution for Kentucky.258 • June 1, 1792: Kentucky joins the Union as the 15th state.259 Louisiana • April 30, 1803: Robert Livingston Louisiana: 18th State and James Monroe sign the Louisiana Orleans Territory created March 26, 1804 (2 Stat. 283) Enabling law enacted February 20, 1811 (2 Stat. 641) Louisiana admitted April 30, 1812 (2 Stat. 701) 249 Letter from George Muter, President of the Ninth Kentucky Convention, to George Washington, President of the 249 Letter from George Muter, President of the Ninth Kentucky Convention, to George Washington, President of the
United States of America, October 4, 1790, at https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/05-06-02-0250. United States of America, October 4, 1790, at https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/05-06-02-0250.
250 Washington, “Second Annual Address to Congress” (December 8, 1790), American Presidency Project (University 250 Washington, “Second Annual Address to Congress” (December 8, 1790), American Presidency Project (University
of California, Santa Barbara), at https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/203719. of California, Santa Barbara), at https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/203719.
251 251 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (December 14, 1790), p. 222; , 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (December 14, 1790), p. 222; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess.
(December 14, 1790), p. 1777. (December 14, 1790), p. 1777.
252 252 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (January 3, 1791), pp. 228-229; , 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (January 3, 1791), pp. 228-229; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess.
(January 3, 1791), pp. 1784-1785. (January 3, 1791), pp. 1784-1785.
253 253 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (January 4, 1791), p. 229; , 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (January 4, 1791), p. 229; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (January , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (January
4, 1791), p. 1785. 4, 1791), p. 1785.
254 254 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (January 12, 1791), p. 232; , 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (January 12, 1791), p. 232; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess.
(January 12, 1791), p. 1788. (January 12, 1791), p. 1788.
255 255 House Journal, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (January 28, 1791), p. 366; , 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (January 28, 1791), p. 366; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess.
(January 28, 1791), p. 1934. (January 28, 1791), p. 1934.
256 1 Stat. 189. 256 1 Stat. 189.
257 257 Journal of the First Constitutional Convention of Kentucky (Lexington, KY: State Bar Association of Kentucky, (Lexington, KY: State Bar Association of Kentucky,
1942), p. 1. 1942), p. 1.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• April 19, 1792: Delegates in Danville adopt a state constitution for Kentucky.258~~
~~• June 1, 1792: Kentucky joins the Union as the 15th state.259~~
~~Louisiana~~
~~• April 30, 1803: Robert Livingston~~
~~Louisiana: 18th State~~
~~and James Monroe sign the Louisiana~~
~~Orleans Territory created March 26, 1804 (2 Stat. 283)~~
~~Purchase Treaty and Conventions in~~
~~Enabling law enacted February 20, 1811 (2 Stat. 641)~~
~~Paris, France.260~~
~~Louisiana admitted April 30, 1812 (2 Stat. 701)~~258 Journal of the First Constitutional Convention of Kentucky, p. 22. 259 Stephen Asperheim, “The Commonwealth of Kentucky,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 460-485. Congressional Research Service 37 link to page 50 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Purchase Treaty and Conventions in Paris, France.260 • October 20, 1803: The Senate ratifies
~~• October 20, 1803: The Senate ratifies~~
the Louisiana Purchase treaty by a vote of the Louisiana Purchase treaty by a vote of 24-7.261 24-7.261
• • December 30, 1803: Senator John Breckinridge of Kentucky reports a bill Senator John Breckinridge of Kentucky reports a bill
“erecting Louisiana into two territories,” from a committee appointed to study the “erecting Louisiana into two territories,” from a committee appointed to study the
issue.262 issue.262
• • February 18, 1804: The Senate passes an amended version of the bill “erecting The Senate passes an amended version of the bill “erecting
Louisiana into two Territories” by a vote of 20-5.263 Louisiana into two Territories” by a vote of 20-5.263
• • March 17, 1804: The House passes an amended version of the bill splitting the The House passes an amended version of the bill splitting the
Louisiana Purchase into two territories by a vote of 66-21.”264 Louisiana Purchase into two territories by a vote of 66-21.”264
• • March 20, 1804: The Senate rejects several of the House’s changes to the The Senate rejects several of the House’s changes to the
Louisiana bill.265 Louisiana bill.265
• • March 21, 1804: The House requests a conference committee with the Senate to The House requests a conference committee with the Senate to
resolve differences over the Louisiana bill.266 resolve differences over the Louisiana bill.266
• • March 23, 1804: House votes 51-45 to pass a compromise version of the House votes 51-45 to pass a compromise version of the
Louisiana bill,267 followed by a 15-9 vote in the Senate.268 Louisiana bill,267 followed by a 15-9 vote in the Senate.268
• • March 26, 1804: President Thomas Jefferson signs the act splitting the Louisiana President Thomas Jefferson signs the act splitting the Louisiana
Purchase into two areas: the Territory of Orleans, including the city of New Purchase into two areas: the Territory of Orleans, including the city of New

~~258 Journal of the First Constitutional Convention of Kentucky, p. 22.~~
~~259 Stephen Asperheim, “The Commonwealth of Kentucky,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 1, pp. 460-485.~~
Orleans, and the District of Louisiana, covering the bulk of the land acquired from France.269 • December 27, 1810: Representative Nathaniel Macon of North Carolina introduces a bill that would enable Orleans Territory residents to draft a constitution and form a state government in preparation for statehood.270 • January 15, 1811: House passes the Orleans Territory bill by a 77-36 vote.271 260 8 Stat. 200. 260 8 Stat. 200.
261 261 Senate Journal, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (October 20, 1803), p. 450. This does not appear in the , 8th Cong., 1st sess. (October 20, 1803), p. 450. This does not appear in the Annals of Congress. .
262 262 Senate Journal, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (December 30, 1803), p. 331; , 8th Cong., 1st sess. (December 30, 1803), p. 331; Annals of Congress, vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess.
(December 30, 1803), p. 223. (December 30, 1803), p. 223.
263 263 Senate Journal, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (February 18, 1804), p. 360; , 8th Cong., 1st sess. (February 18, 1804), p. 360; Annals of Congress, vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess.
(February 18, 1804), p. 255. (February 18, 1804), p. 255.
264 264 House Journal, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17, 1804), pp. 661-662; , 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17, 1804), pp. 661-662; Annals of Congress, vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 17, 1804), p. 1199. (March 17, 1804), p. 1199.
265 265 Senate Journal, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March 20, 1804), pp. 384-385; , 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March 20, 1804), pp. 384-385; Annals of Congress, vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 20, 1804), pp. 288-290. (March 20, 1804), pp. 288-290.
266 266 House Journal, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March 21, 1804), p. 661; , 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March 21, 1804), p. 661; Annals of Congress, vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March , vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March
21, 1804), pp. 1206-1208. 21, 1804), pp. 1206-1208.
267 267 House Journal, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March 23, 1804), pp. 678-679; , 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March 23, 1804), pp. 678-679; Annals of Congress, vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 23, 1804), pp. 1229-1230. (March 23, 1804), pp. 1229-1230.
268 268 Senate Journal, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March 23, 1804), p. 391; , 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March 23, 1804), p. 391; Annals of Congress, vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March , vol. 13, 8th Cong., 1st sess. (March
23, 1804), pp. 296-297. 23, 1804), pp. 296-297.
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~~link to page 51~~ ~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~Orleans, and the District of Louisiana, covering the bulk of the land acquired~~
~~from France.269~~
~~• December 27, 1810: Representative Nathaniel Macon of North Carolina~~
~~introduces a bill that would enable Orleans Territory residents to draft a~~
~~constitution and form a state government in preparation for statehood.270~~
~~• January 15, 1811: House passes the Orleans Territory bill by a 77-36 vote.271~~
269 2 Stat. 283. The District of Louisiana will later become the Louisiana Territory and, in 1812, the Missouri Territory. See the “Missouri” timeline for details. 270 House Journal, 11th Cong., 3rd sess. (December 27, 1810), p. 464; Annals of Congress, vol. 22, 11th Cong., 3rd sess. (December 27, 1810), p. 466. 271 House Journal, 11th Cong., 3rd sess. (January 15, 1811), pp. 483-485; Annals of Congress, vol. 22, 11th Cong., 3rd sess. (January 15, 1811), p. 577. Congressional Research Service 38 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • February 7, 1811: Senate passes an amended version of the Orleans Territory Senate passes an amended version of the Orleans Territory
bill by a 22-10 vote.272 bill by a 22-10 vote.272
• • February 13, 1811: House agrees to the Senate’s amendment by a 69-45 vote.273 House agrees to the Senate’s amendment by a 69-45 vote.273
• • February 20, 1811: President James Madison signs the act enabling Orleans President James Madison signs the act enabling Orleans
Territory to prepare for statehood.274 Territory to prepare for statehood.274
• • November 4, 1811: A constitutional convention begins in New Orleans.275 A constitutional convention begins in New Orleans.275
• • January 22, 1812: Delegates to the New Orleans convention sign a state Delegates to the New Orleans convention sign a state
constitution for Louisiana.276 constitution for Louisiana.276
• • March 16, 1812: Representative John Dawson of Virginia introduces a bill to Representative John Dawson of Virginia introduces a bill to
admit Louisiana as a state.277 admit Louisiana as a state.277
• • March 20, 1812: House votes 79-23 to pass the Louisiana statehood bill.278 House votes 79-23 to pass the Louisiana statehood bill.278
• • April 1, 1812: Senate passes an amended version of the Louisiana statehood act Senate passes an amended version of the Louisiana statehood act
without a recorded vote.279 without a recorded vote.279
• • April 6, 1812: House agrees to the Senate-amended version of the admission act House agrees to the Senate-amended version of the admission act
without a recorded vote.280 without a recorded vote.280
• • April 8, 1812: President Madison signs the act admitting Louisiana into the President Madison signs the act admitting Louisiana into the
Union, which will take effect on April 30.281 Union, which will take effect on April 30.281
• • April 30, 1812: Louisiana becomes the 18th state. Louisiana becomes the 18th state.

~~269 2 Stat. 283. The District of Louisiana will later become the Louisiana Territory and, in 1812, the Missouri Territory.~~
~~See the “Missouri” timeline for details.~~
~~270 House Journal, 11th Cong., 3rd sess. (December 27, 1810), p. 464; Annals of Congress, vol. 22, 11th Cong., 3rd sess.~~
~~(December 27, 1810), p. 466.~~
~~271 House Journal, 11th Cong., 3rd sess. (January 15, 1811), pp. 483-485; Annals of Congress, vol. 22, 11th Cong., 3rd~~
~~sess. (January 15, 1811), p. 577.~~
Maine • October 7, 1691: A new charter Maine: 23rd State for the Massachusetts Bay colony enlarges it to include Maine, Maine admitted March 15, 1820 (3 Stat. 544) among other places. Maine will remain part of Massachusetts for more than a century.282 272 272 Senate Journal, 11th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 7, 1811), p. 564; , 11th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 7, 1811), p. 564; Annals of Congress, vol. 22, 11th Cong., 3rd sess. , vol. 22, 11th Cong., 3rd sess.
(February 7, 1811), p. 127. (February 7, 1811), p. 127.
273 273 House Journal, 11th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 13, 1811), pp. 549-551; , 11th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 13, 1811), pp. 549-551; Annals of Congress, vol. 22, 11th Cong., 3rd , vol. 22, 11th Cong., 3rd
sess. (February 13, 1811), p. 964. sess. (February 13, 1811), p. 964.
274 2 Stat. 641. 274 2 Stat. 641.
275 275 Journal de la Convention d’Orléans de 1811-12 (Jackson, LA: Jerome Bayon, 1844), p. 1. (Jackson, LA: Jerome Bayon, 1844), p. 1.
276 276 Constitution or Form of Government of the State of Louisiana (New Orleans: Jo. Bar. Baird, 1812), p. 30. (New Orleans: Jo. Bar. Baird, 1812), p. 30.
277 277 House Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (March 16, 1812), p. 248; , 12th Cong., 1st sess. (March 16, 1812), p. 248; Annals of Congress, vol. 24, 12th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 24, 12th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 16, 1812), p. 466. (March 16, 1812), p. 466.
278 278 House Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (March 20, 1812), pp. 257-258; , 12th Cong., 1st sess. (March 20, 1812), pp. 257-258; Annals of Congress, vol. 24, 12th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 24, 12th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 20, 1812), p. 1227. (March 20, 1812), p. 1227.
279 279 Senate Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (April 1, 1812), pp. 90-91; , 12th Cong., 1st sess. (April 1, 1812), pp. 90-91; Annals of Congress, vol. 23, 12th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 23, 12th Cong., 1st sess.
(April 1, 1812), p. 186. (April 1, 1812), p. 186.
280 280 House Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (April 6, 1812), p. 276; , 12th Cong., 1st sess. (April 6, 1812), p. 276; Annals of Congress, vol. 24, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (April , vol. 24, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (April
6, 1812), p. 1254. 6, 1812), p. 1254.
281 2 Stat. 701. 281 2 Stat. 701.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~Maine~~
~~• October 7, 1691: A new charter~~
~~Maine: 23rd State~~
~~for the Massachusetts Bay colony~~
~~enlarges it to include Maine,~~
~~Maine admitted March 15, 1820 (3 Stat. 544)~~
~~among other places. Maine will~~
~~remain part of Massachusetts for more than a century.282~~282 “The Charter of Massachusetts Bay—1691,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 3, pp. 1870-1886; M.H. Hoeflich, “The State of Maine,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, p. 513-538. Congressional Research Service 39 link to page 50 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • June 19, 1819: Massachusetts consents to Maine’s separation and statehood, Massachusetts consents to Maine’s separation and statehood,
pending the outcome of a referendum vote and other steps.283 pending the outcome of a referendum vote and other steps.283
• • July 26, 1819: Mainers vote in favor of separating from Massachusetts, 17,091 Mainers vote in favor of separating from Massachusetts, 17,091
to 7,132. It is the sixth in a series of votes on the subject going back to 1792.284 to 7,132. It is the sixth in a series of votes on the subject going back to 1792.284
• • October 11-29, 1819: Delegates gather in Portland to write a new Maine Delegates gather in Portland to write a new Maine
constitution.285 constitution.285
• • December 6, 1819: Maine voters ratify the new state constitution by 9,040 to Maine voters ratify the new state constitution by 9,040 to
796.286 796.286
• • December 21, 1819: Representative John Holmes of Massachusetts reports, from Representative John Holmes of Massachusetts reports, from
a select committee, a bill to admit Maine as a state.287 a select committee, a bill to admit Maine as a state.287
• • January 3, 1820: House passes an amended version of the Maine statehood bill House passes an amended version of the Maine statehood bill
without a recorded vote.288 without a recorded vote.288
• • February 18, 1820: Senate amends and passes the Maine statehood bill without Senate amends and passes the Maine statehood bill without
a recorded vote on final passage.289 a recorded vote on final passage.289
• • March 3, 1820: House and Senate agree to a compromise version of the Maine House and Senate agree to a compromise version of the Maine
statehood bill, which is then passed by the House and Senate without recorded statehood bill, which is then passed by the House and Senate without recorded

~~282 “The Charter of Massachusetts Bay—1691,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 3, pp. 1870-1886;~~
~~M.H. Hoeflich, “The State of Maine,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, p. 513-538.~~
votes.290 President James Monroe signs the bill, which will take effect on March 15, 1820.291 • March 15, 1820: Maine becomes the 23rd state. Its admission is paired with the admission of Missouri as a slave state as part of the Missouri Compromise.292 Maryland Maryland: Seventh State 283 “An Act relating to the Separation of the District of Maine from Massachusetts Proper, and forming the same into a 283 “An Act relating to the Separation of the District of Maine from Massachusetts Proper, and forming the same into a
Separate and Independent State,” in Separate and Independent State,” in Laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Passed at the Several Sessions of
the General Court, Beginning May, 1818 and Ending February, 1822 (Boston: Russell and Gardner, 1822), pp. 248- (Boston: Russell and Gardner, 1822), pp. 248-
260, at https://archives.lib.state.ma.us/handle/2452/110107. 260, at https://archives.lib.state.ma.us/handle/2452/110107.
284 Stephanie Kermes, 284 Stephanie Kermes, Creating an American Identity: New England, 1789-1825 (New York: Palgrave Macmillan, (New York: Palgrave Macmillan,
2008), p. 158; Appendix V in Ronald F. Banks, 2008), p. 158; Appendix V in Ronald F. Banks, Maine Becomes a State: The Movement to Separate Maine from
Massachusetts, 1785-1820 (Middleton, CT: Wesleyan University Press, 1970). (Middleton, CT: Wesleyan University Press, 1970).
285 285 Journal of the Constitutional Convention of the District of Maine: With the Articles of Separation, and Governor
Brooks’ Proclamation, Prefixed (Augusta, ME: Fuller & Fuller, 1856). (Augusta, ME: Fuller & Fuller, 1856).
286 Maine State Legislature, 286 Maine State Legislature, Amendments to the Maine Constitution, 1820-Present, November 2021, at , November 2021, at
https://www.maine.gov/legis/lawlib/lldl/constitutionalamendments; https://www.maine.gov/legis/lawlib/lldl/constitutionalamendments; Journal of the Constitutional Convention of the
District of Maine, p. 98. This is the tally for votes “legally and seasonably returned.” , p. 98. This is the tally for votes “legally and seasonably returned.”
287 287 House Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (December 21, 1819), p. 60; , 16th Cong., 1st sess. (December 21, 1819), p. 60; Annals of Congress, vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st sess.
(December 21, 1819), p. 749. (December 21, 1819), p. 749.
288 288 House Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (January 3, 1820), p. 99; , 16th Cong., 1st sess. (January 3, 1820), p. 99; Annals of Congress, vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st sess.
(January 3, 1820), p. 849. (January 3, 1820), p. 849.
289 289 Senate Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (February 18, 1820), pp. 169-170; , 16th Cong., 1st sess. (February 18, 1820), pp. 169-170; Annals of Congress, vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st , vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st
sess. (February 18, 1820), p. 430. sess. (February 18, 1820), p. 430.
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~~votes.290 President James Monroe signs the bill, which will take effect on March~~
~~15, 1820.291~~
~~• March 15, 1820: Maine becomes the 23rd state. Its admission is paired with the~~
~~admission of Missouri as a slave state as part of the Missouri Compromise.292~~
~~Maryland~~290 House Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1820), p. 283; Senate Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1820), pp. 206-207; Annals of Congress, vol. 36, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1820), p. 1589; Annals of Congress, vol. 35, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1820), pp. 471-472. 291 3 Stat. 544. 292 See the “Missouri” timeline for additional information. Congressional Research Service 40 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • June 20, 1632: King Charles I grants
• June 20, 1632: ~~King Charles I grants~~ the charter for the colony of Maryland the charter for the colony of Maryland to
Maryland ratified Constitution April 28, 1788 to Cecil Calvert.293 Cecil Calvert.293
• • July 4, 1776: Maryland joins 12 other Maryland joins 12 other
~~Maryland: Seventh State~~
~~colonies in declaring independence~~
~~Maryland ratified Constitution April 28, 1788~~
~~from~~ colonies in declaring independence from Great Britain.294 Great Britain.294
• • March 1, 1781: Maryland signs and ratifies the Articles of Confederation.295 Maryland signs and ratifies the Articles of Confederation.295
• • May 14-September 17, 1787: Maryland’s five delegates participate in the Maryland’s five delegates participate in the
Constitutional Convention.296 Constitutional Convention.296
• • April 28, 1788: Maryland’s convention formally ratifies the Constitution, Maryland’s convention formally ratifies the Constitution,
following a 63-11 vote on April 26.297 following a 63-11 vote on April 26.297
Massachusetts
• • March 4, 1629: A charter is given to A charter is given to
Massachusetts: Sixth State
the “Governor and Company of the the “Governor and Company of the
Massachusetts Bay in New England” Massachusetts Bay in New England”
Massachusetts ratified Constitution February 6, 1788 Massachusetts ratified Constitution February 6, 1788
by King Charles I.298 by King Charles I.298
• • October 7, 1691: A new charter, given by King William and Queen Mary, A new charter, given by King William and Queen Mary,
enlarges Massachusetts “to include the old colony of Massachusetts Bay, enlarges Massachusetts “to include the old colony of Massachusetts Bay,
Plymouth Colony, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, Maine, and parts of Nova Plymouth Colony, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, Maine, and parts of Nova
Scotia.”299 Scotia.”299
• • July 4, 1776: Massachusetts joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence Massachusetts joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence
from Great Britain.300 from Great Britain.300

~~290 House Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1820), p. 283; Senate Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1820),~~
~~pp. 206-207; Annals of Congress, vol. 36, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1820), p. 1589; Annals of Congress, vol. 35,~~
~~16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1820), pp. 471-472.~~
~~291 3 Stat. 544.~~
~~292 See the “Missouri” timeline for additional information.~~
• July 9, 1778: Massachusetts signs and ratifies the Articles of Confederation.301 • May 14-September 17, 1787: Massachusetts’s four delegates participate in the Constitutional Convention.302 • February 6, 1788: Massachusetts’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a vote of 187-168.303 293 “The Charter of Maryland, June 20, 1632,” in Maryland State Archives, 293 “The Charter of Maryland, June 20, 1632,” in Maryland State Archives, Archives of Maryland, vol. 549, p. 5, at , vol. 549, p. 5, at
https://msa.maryland.gov/megafile/msa/speccol/sc2900/sc2908/000001/000549/html/am549https://msa.maryland.gov/megafile/msa/speccol/sc2900/sc2908/000001/000549/html/am549—--5.html. 5.html.
294 294 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. , vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.
295 295 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 19 (March 1, 1781), pp. 213-214. , vol. 19 (March 1, 1781), pp. 213-214.
296 Farrand, 296 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 558. , vol. 3, p. 558.
297 Elliot, 297 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 324-325; , vol. 1, pp. 324-325; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 12, pp. 647-, vol. 12, pp. 647-
655. 655.
298 “The Charter of Massachusetts—1629,” in Thorpe, 298 “The Charter of Massachusetts—1629,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 3, pp. 1846-1860. , vol. 3, pp. 1846-1860.
299 “The Charter of Massachusetts Bay—1691,” in Thorpe, 299 “The Charter of Massachusetts Bay—1691,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 3, pp. 1870-1886; , vol. 3, pp. 1870-1886;
Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Archives Collection, at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/, at https://www.sec.state.ma.us/
~~arc/arccol/colmac~~divisions/archives/collections/mass-archives-collection.htm. .htm.
300 300 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. , vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.
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~~• July 9, 1778: Massachusetts signs and ratifies the Articles of Confederation.301~~
~~• May 14-September 17, 1787: Massachusetts’s four delegates participate in the~~
~~Constitutional Convention.302~~
~~• February 6, 1788: Massachusetts’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a vote~~
~~of 187-168.303~~301 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677. 302 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 558. 303 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 322-323; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 6, pp. 1461-1462. Congressional Research Service 41 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
Michigan
• • September 3, 1783: The United The United
Michigan: 26th State
States acquires the land that will States acquires the land that will
Michigan Territory created June 30, 1805 (2 Stat. 309) Michigan Territory created June 30, 1805 (2 Stat. 309)
become Michigan from Great Britain become Michigan from Great Britain
Enabling law enacted June 15, 1836 (5 Stat. 49) Enabling law enacted June 15, 1836 (5 Stat. 49)
in the Treaty of Paris.304 in the Treaty of Paris.304
Michigan admitted January 26, 1837 (5 Stat. 144) Michigan admitted January 26, 1837 (5 Stat. 144)
• • December 14, 1804: Senator Thomas Senator Thomas
Worthington of Ohio reports, from a committee on the subject, a bill that would Worthington of Ohio reports, from a committee on the subject, a bill that would
divide the Indiana Territory into two separate territories.305 divide the Indiana Territory into two separate territories.305
• • December 24, 1804: Senate amends and passes the Indiana Territory bill without Senate amends and passes the Indiana Territory bill without
a recorded vote.306 a recorded vote.306
• • January 7, 1805: House passes an amended version of the Indiana Territory bill House passes an amended version of the Indiana Territory bill
without a recorded vote.307 without a recorded vote.307
• • January 8, 1805: Senate passes the House-amended territorial bill without a Senate passes the House-amended territorial bill without a
recorded vote.308 recorded vote.308
• • January 11, 1805: President Thomas Jefferson signs the act to split the Indiana President Thomas Jefferson signs the act to split the Indiana
Territory in two, creating the Michigan Territory as of June 30, 1805.309 Territory in two, creating the Michigan Territory as of June 30, 1805.309
• • October 5-6, 1835: Michigan’s constitution, drafted by a convention meeting in Michigan’s constitution, drafted by a convention meeting in
Detroit from May 11 to June 24, 1835, is adopted by a vote of 6,752 to 1,374.310 Detroit from May 11 to June 24, 1835, is adopted by a vote of 6,752 to 1,374.310
• • March 22, 1836: Senator Thomas Hart Benton of Missouri reports 24 S. 177, a Senator Thomas Hart Benton of Missouri reports 24 S. 177, a
bill that would establish the northern border of Ohio and admit Michigan as a bill that would establish the northern border of Ohio and admit Michigan as a
state, from a select committee studying the issue.311 state, from a select committee studying the issue.311

~~301 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677.~~
~~302 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 558.~~
~~303 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 322-323; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 6, pp. 1461-~~
~~1462.~~
• April 2, 1836: Senate votes to pass 24 S. 177.312 • June 13, 1836: House passes 24 S. 177 without a recorded vote on final passage, following a 153-45 procedural vote.313 • June 15, 1836: President Andrew Jackson signs 24 S. 177 into law, admitting Michigan as a state on the condition that it accept newly defined borders.314 304 Jim Schwartz, “The State of Michigan,” in Shearer, 304 Jim Schwartz, “The State of Michigan,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 592-618. , vol. 2, pp. 592-618.
305 305 Senate Journal, 8th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 14, 1804), p. 423; , 8th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 14, 1804), p. 423; Annals of Congress, vol. 14, 8th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 14, 8th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 14, 1804), p. 23. (December 14, 1804), p. 23.
306 306 Senate Journal. 8th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 24, 1804), p. 426; . 8th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 24, 1804), p. 426; Annals of Congress, vol. 14, 8th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 14, 8th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 24, 1804), p. 26. (December 24, 1804), p. 26.
307 307 House Journal, 8th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 7, 1805), p. 79; , 8th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 7, 1805), p. 79; Annals of Congress, vol. 14, 8th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 14, 8th Cong., 2nd sess.
(January 7, 1805), p. 872. (January 7, 1805), p. 872.
308 308 Senate Journal, 8th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 8, 1805), p. 431; , 8th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 8, 1805), p. 431; Annals of Congress, vol. 14, 8th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 14, 8th Cong., 2nd sess.
(January 8, 1805), p. 32. (January 8, 1805), p. 32.
309 2 Stat. 309. 309 2 Stat. 309.
310 Legislative Service Bureau, 310 Legislative Service Bureau, The Constitution of the State of Michigan, at http://www.legislature.mi.gov/, at http://www.legislature.mi.gov/
(S(hybaug5jzbffgrpwwukidlqp))/documents/mcl/pdf/michiganconstitution1963asratified.pdf. (S(hybaug5jzbffgrpwwukidlqp))/documents/mcl/pdf/michiganconstitution1963asratified.pdf.
311 311 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 22, 1836), p. 236; , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 22, 1836), p. 236; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 22, , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 22,
1836), p. 275. 1836), p. 275.
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~~• April 2, 1836: Senate votes to pass 24 S. 177.312~~
~~• June 13, 1836: House passes 24 S. 177 without a recorded vote on final passage,~~
~~following a 153-45 procedural vote.313~~
~~• June 15, 1836: President Andrew Jackson signs 24 S. 177 into law, admitting~~
~~Michigan as a state on the condition that it accept newly defined borders.314~~
312 The vote was reported as 24-18 in the Senate Journal and 24-17 in the Congressional Globe. See Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 2, 1836), pp. 263-264, and Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 2, 1836), p. 313. 313 House Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (June 13, 1836), pp. 993-997 and 1002; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (June 13, 1836), pp. 550-551. 314 5 Stat. 49. Congressional Research Service 42 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Under the proposed compromise, Michigan would cede the disputed city of Under the proposed compromise, Michigan would cede the disputed city of
Toledo to Ohio but acquire much of the Upper Peninsula.315 Toledo to Ohio but acquire much of the Upper Peninsula.315
• • September 26-30, 1836: Delegates elected to a state convention vote 28-21 to Delegates elected to a state convention vote 28-21 to
reject the congressional compromise over Michigan’s borders.316 reject the congressional compromise over Michigan’s borders.316
• • December 14-15, 1836: Delegates elected to a second state convention, known Delegates elected to a second state convention, known
as the “Frostbitten Convention,” vote unanimously to accept Congress’s as the “Frostbitten Convention,” vote unanimously to accept Congress’s
conditions for statehood.317 conditions for statehood.317
• • December 29, 1836: Senator Felix Grundy of Tennessee reports 24 S. 81, a bill Senator Felix Grundy of Tennessee reports 24 S. 81, a bill
to admit Michigan as a state, from the Senate Judiciary Committee.318 to admit Michigan as a state, from the Senate Judiciary Committee.318
• • January 5, 1837: Senate votes 25-10 to pass 24 S. 81.319 Senate votes 25-10 to pass 24 S. 81.319
• • January 25, 1837: House votes 132-43 to pass 24 S.81.320 House votes 132-43 to pass 24 S.81.320
• • January 26, 1837: President Jackson signs 24 S. 81 into law, admitting President Jackson signs 24 S. 81 into law, admitting
Michigan to the Union.321 Michigan to the Union.321
Minnesota
• • October 20, 1818: The United The United
Minnesota: 32nd State
States acquires part of the land States acquires part of the land
that will become Minnesota from that will become Minnesota from
Minnesota Territory created March 3, 1849 (9 Stat. 403) Minnesota Territory created March 3, 1849 (9 Stat. 403)
Great Britain, adding to territory Great Britain, adding to territory
Enabling law enacted February 26, 1857 (11 Stat. 166) Enabling law enacted February 26, 1857 (11 Stat. 166)
obtained in the Treaty of Paris obtained in the Treaty of Paris
Minnesota admitted May 11, 1858 (11 Stat. 285) Minnesota admitted May 11, 1858 (11 Stat. 285)

~~312 The vote was reported as 24-18 in the Senate Journal and 24-17 in the Congressional Globe. See Senate Journal,~~
~~24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 2, 1836), pp. 263-264, and Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 2, 1836), p. 313.~~
~~313 House Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (June 13, 1836), pp. 993-997 and 1002; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st~~
~~sess. (June 13, 1836), pp. 550-551.~~
~~314 5 Stat. 49.~~
(1783) and the Louisiana Purchase (1803).322 • February 23, 1848: Senator Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois introduces 30 S. 152, a bill to create the Minnesota Territory.323 • January 19, 1849: Senate passes an amended version of the Minnesota Territory bill without a recorded vote.324 315 Schwartz, “The State of Michigan,” pp. 610-611. 315 Schwartz, “The State of Michigan,” pp. 610-611.
316 “First Convention of Assent of the Territory of Michigan,” in 316 “First Convention of Assent of the Territory of Michigan,” in Michigan Manual 2015-2016 (Lansing, MI: (Lansing, MI:
Legislative Service Bureau, 2016), at https://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(khjikt3ukugbvxxz5sicivm3))/documents/2015-Legislative Service Bureau, 2016), at https://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(khjikt3ukugbvxxz5sicivm3))/documents/2015-
2016/michiganmanual/2015-MM-p0021-p0024.pdf. 2016/michiganmanual/2015-MM-p0021-p0024.pdf.
317 317 “Second Convention of Assent of the Territory of Michigan,” in “Second Convention of Assent of the Territory of Michigan,” in Michigan Manual 2015-2016, at , at
https://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(khjikt3ukugbvxxz5sicivm3))/documents/2015-2016/michiganmanual/2015-MM-https://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(khjikt3ukugbvxxz5sicivm3))/documents/2015-2016/michiganmanual/2015-MM-
p0021-p0024.pdf. p0021-p0024.pdf.
318 318 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 29, 1836), p. 72; , 24th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 29, 1836), p. 72; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong. , 2nd sess. , 24th Cong. , 2nd sess.
(December 29, 1836), p. 59. (December 29, 1836), p. 59.
319 319 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 5, 1837), pp. 93-94; , 24th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 5, 1837), pp. 93-94; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 2nd sess. , 24th Cong., 2nd sess.
(January 5, 1837), p. 73. (January 5, 1837), p. 73.
320 320 House Journal, 24th Cong, 2nd sess. (January 25, 1837), pp. 284-285; , 24th Cong, 2nd sess. (January 25, 1837), pp. 284-285; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 2nd sess. , 24th Cong., 2nd sess.
(January 25, 1837), p. 125. (January 25, 1837), p. 125.
321 5 Stat. 144. 321 5 Stat. 144.
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~~(1783) and the Louisiana Purchase (1803).322~~
~~• February 23, 1848: Senator Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois introduces 30 S. 152,~~
~~a bill to create the Minnesota Territory.323~~
~~• January 19, 1849: Senate passes an amended version of the Minnesota Territory~~
~~bill without a recorded vote.324~~322 Jonathan Kasparek, “The State of Minnesota,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 619-641. 323 Senate Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (February 23, 1848), p. 187. The bill’s introduction does not appear in the Congressional Globe. 324 Congressional Globe, 30th Cong. (January 19, 1849), 2nd sess., pp. 298-299. The bill’s passage does not appear in the Senate Journal. Congressional Research Service 43 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • February 28, 1849: House passes an amended version of the Minnesota House passes an amended version of the Minnesota
Territory bill without a recorded vote.325 Territory bill without a recorded vote.325
• • March 1, 1849: Senate accepts most of the House’s amendments to the Senate accepts most of the House’s amendments to the
Minnesota Territory bill, but rejects one on a 30-18 vote.326 Minnesota Territory bill, but rejects one on a 30-18 vote.326
• • March 3, 1849: House votes 107-70 to accept the Senate’s version of 30 S. House votes 107-70 to accept the Senate’s version of 30 S.
152.327 President James K. Polk signs the Minnesota Territory bill into law.328 152.327 President James K. Polk signs the Minnesota Territory bill into law.328
• • December 24, 1856: Delegate Henry Rice of Minnesota introduces 34 H.R. 642, Delegate Henry Rice of Minnesota introduces 34 H.R. 642,
a bill authorizing Minnesota Territory residents to hold a constitutional a bill authorizing Minnesota Territory residents to hold a constitutional
convention in preparation for statehood.329 convention in preparation for statehood.329
• • January 31, 1857: House votes 97-75 to pass an amended version of 34 H.R. House votes 97-75 to pass an amended version of 34 H.R.
642.330 642.330
• • February 21, 1857: Senate votes 47-1 to pass an amended version of 34 H.R. Senate votes 47-1 to pass an amended version of 34 H.R.
642.331 642.331
• • February 25, 1857: Senate reconsiders its amendment and votes 31-22 to Senate reconsiders its amendment and votes 31-22 to
approve the House-passed version.332 approve the House-passed version.332
• • February 26, 1857: President James Buchanan signs the Minnesota enabling act President James Buchanan signs the Minnesota enabling act
into law.333 into law.333
• • July 13-August 29, 1857: Elected delegates assemble in St. Paul to draft the Elected delegates assemble in St. Paul to draft the
state constitution, but the Democratic and Republican parties are so divided that state constitution, but the Democratic and Republican parties are so divided that

~~322 Jonathan Kasparek, “The State of Minnesota,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 619-641.~~
~~323 Senate Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (February 23, 1848), p. 187. The bill’s introduction does not appear in the~~
Congressional Globe.
~~324 Congressional Globe, 30th Cong. (January 19, 1849), 2nd sess., pp. 298-299. The bill’s passage does not appear in~~
~~the Senate Journal.~~
two separate conventions are held and two constitutions are drafted. Eventually, a conference committee drafts a compromise document.334 • October 13, 1857: Minnesota voters ratify the new state constitution, 30,055 to 571.335 325 325 House Journal, 30th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 28, 1849), pp. 558-559; , 30th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 28, 1849), pp. 558-559; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 2nd sess. , 30th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 28, 1849), p. 617. (February 28, 1849), p. 617.
326 326 Senate Journal, 30th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1849), pp. 288-289; , 30th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1849), pp. 288-289; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 2nd sess. , 30th Cong., 2nd sess.
(March 1, 1849), pp. 635-637. (March 1, 1849), pp. 635-637.
327 327 House Journal, 30th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 3, 1849), pp. 620-621; , 30th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 3, 1849), pp. 620-621; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 2nd sess. , 30th Cong., 2nd sess.
(March 3, 1849), p. 693. A vote tally does not appear in the (March 3, 1849), p. 693. A vote tally does not appear in the Congressional Globe. .
328 9 Stat. 403. 328 9 Stat. 403.
329 329 House Journal, 34th Cong., 3rd sess. (December 24, 1856), p. 163; , 34th Cong., 3rd sess. (December 24, 1856), p. 163; Congressional Globe, 34th Cong., 3rd sess. , 34th Cong., 3rd sess.
(December 24, 1856), p. 201. (December 24, 1856), p. 201.
330 330 House Journal, 34th Cong., 3rd sess. (January 31, 1857), pp. 328-329; , 34th Cong., 3rd sess. (January 31, 1857), pp. 328-329; Congressional Globe, 34th Cong., 3rd sess. , 34th Cong., 3rd sess.
(January 31, 1857), p. 519. (January 31, 1857), p. 519.
331 331 Senate Journal, 34th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 21, 1857), p. 237; , 34th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 21, 1857), p. 237; Congressional Globe, 34th Cong., 3rd sess. , 34th Cong., 3rd sess.
(February 21, 1857), p. 814. (February 21, 1857), p. 814.
332 332 Senate Journal, 34th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 25, 1857), p. 252; , 34th Cong., 3rd sess. (February 25, 1857), p. 252; Congressional Globe, 34th Cong., 3rd sess. , 34th Cong., 3rd sess.
(February 25, 1857), p. 877. (February 25, 1857), p. 877.
333 11 Stat. 166. 333 11 Stat. 166.
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~~two separate conventions are held and two constitutions are drafted. Eventually, a~~
~~conference committee drafts a compromise document.334~~
~~• October 13, 1857: Minnesota voters ratify the new state constitution, 30,055 to~~
~~571.335~~334 Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State, Minnesota Constitution 1858, at https://www.sos.state.mn.us/about-minnesota/minnesota-government/minnesota-constitution-1858. 335 Minnesota Constitution 1858. Congressional Research Service 44 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • January 26, 1858: Senator Douglas reports 35 S. 86, a bill “for the admission of Senator Douglas reports 35 S. 86, a bill “for the admission of
the State of Minnesota into the Union,” from the Senate Committee on the State of Minnesota into the Union,” from the Senate Committee on
Territories.336 Territories.336
• • April 7, 1858: Senate votes 49-3 to admit Minnesota as a state.337 Senate votes 49-3 to admit Minnesota as a state.337
• • May 11, 1858: House votes to admit Minnesota as a state.338House votes to admit Minnesota as a state.338 President Buchanan President Buchanan
signs 35 S. 86 into law, and Minnesota became a state.339 signs 35 S. 86 into law, and Minnesota became a state.339
Mississippi
• • September 3, 1783: The United The United
Mississippi: 20th State
States acquires the the land that States acquires the the land that
will become Mississippi from will become Mississippi from
Mississippi Territory created April 7, 1798 (1 Stat 549) Mississippi Territory created April 7, 1798 (1 Stat 549)
Great Britain in the Treaty of Great Britain in the Treaty of
Enabling law enacted March 1, 1817 (3 Stat 348) Enabling law enacted March 1, 1817 (3 Stat 348)
Paris.340 Paris.340
Mississippi admitted December 10, 1817 (3 Stat. 472.) Mississippi admitted December 10, 1817 (3 Stat. 472.)

• • February 23, 1798: Senator Senator
James Ross of Pennsylvania reports, from a committee looking into the area James Ross of Pennsylvania reports, from a committee looking into the area
south and west of Georgia, a bill to establish a new Mississippi Territory.341 south and west of Georgia, a bill to establish a new Mississippi Territory.341
• • March 5, 1798: The Senate passes the Mississippi Territory bill, 20-8.342 The Senate passes the Mississippi Territory bill, 20-8.342
• • March 27, 1798: The House passes an amended version of the Mississippi The House passes an amended version of the Mississippi
Territory bill without a recorded vote.343 Territory bill without a recorded vote.343
• • March 29, 1798: The Senate agrees to the House amendments without a The Senate agrees to the House amendments without a
recorded vote.344 recorded vote.344

~~334 Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State, Minnesota Constitution 1858, at https://www.sos.state.mn.us/about-~~
~~minnesota/minnesota-government/minnesota-constitution-1858.~~
335 Minnesota Constitution 1858.
• April 7, 1798: President John Adams signs the Mississippi Territory bill into law.345 • January 17, 1817: Senator Charles Tait of Georgia reports, from a select committee studying the issue, a bill that would enable the western part of the Mississippi Territory to prepare for statehood.346 336 336 Senate Journal, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (January 26, 1858), p. 133;, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (January 26, 1858), p. 133; Congressional Globe, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (January , 35th Cong., 1st sess. (January
26, 1858), p. 405. 26, 1858), p. 405.
337 337 Senate Journal, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (April 7, 1858), p. 326;, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (April 7, 1858), p. 326; Congressional Globe, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (April 7, , 35th Cong., 1st sess. (April 7,
1858), pp. 1511-1516. 1858), pp. 1511-1516.
338 The vote was reported as 157-39 in the 338 The vote was reported as 157-39 in the House Journal and 157-38 in the and 157-38 in the Congressional Globe. See . See House Journal, ,
35th Cong., 1st sess. (May 11, 1858), p. 777, and35th Cong., 1st sess. (May 11, 1858), p. 777, and Congressional Globe, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (May 11, 1858), pp. 2057-, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (May 11, 1858), pp. 2057-
2061. 2061.
339 11 Stat. 285. 339 11 Stat. 285.
340 Deanne Stephens Nuwer, “The State of Mississippi,” in Shearer, 340 Deanne Stephens Nuwer, “The State of Mississippi,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 642-669. , vol. 2, pp. 642-669.
341 341 Senate Journal, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 23, 1798), p. 445; , 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 23, 1798), p. 445; Annals of Congress, vol. 7, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. , vol. 7, 5th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 23, 1798), p. 511. (February 23, 1798), p. 511.
342 342 Senate Journal, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 5, 1798), p. 449; , 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 5, 1798), p. 449; Annals of Congress, vol. 7, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March , vol. 7, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March
5, 1798), p. 515. 5, 1798), p. 515.
343 343 House Journal, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 27, 1798), p. 240; , 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 27, 1798), p. 240; Annals of Congress, vol. 8, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March , vol. 8, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March
27, 1798), p. 1318. 27, 1798), p. 1318.
344 344 Senate Journal, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 29, 1798), p. 465; , 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 29, 1798), p. 465; Annals of Congress, vol. 7, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March , vol. 7, 5th Cong., 2nd sess. (March
29, 1798), p. 533. 29, 1798), p. 533.
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~~• April 7, 1798: President John Adams signs the Mississippi Territory bill into~~
~~law.345~~
~~• January 17, 1817: Senator Charles Tait of Georgia reports, from a select~~
~~committee studying the issue, a bill that would enable the western part of the~~
~~Mississippi Territory to prepare for statehood.346~~345 1 Stat. 549. 346 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 17, 1817), p. 123; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 17, 1817), p. 71. The eastern part of Mississippi Territory became the Alabama Territory. Congressional Research Service 45 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • January 31, 1817: Senate passes an amended version of the Mississippi Senate passes an amended version of the Mississippi
Territory enabling bill without a recorded vote.347 Territory enabling bill without a recorded vote.347
• • February 26, 1817: House amends and passes the Mississippi Territory enabling House amends and passes the Mississippi Territory enabling
bill without a recorded vote.348 bill without a recorded vote.348
• • February 27, 1817: Senate concurs in the House’s amendments without a Senate concurs in the House’s amendments without a
recorded vote.349 recorded vote.349
• • March 1, 1817: President James Madison signs the enabling act for Mississippi President James Madison signs the enabling act for Mississippi
statehood.350 statehood.350
• • July-August 1817: Forty-eight delegates meet to form a constitutional Forty-eight delegates meet to form a constitutional
convention.351 convention.351
• • August 15, 1817: The delegates approve the final draft of the Mississippi The delegates approve the final draft of the Mississippi
Constitution.352 Constitution.352
• • December 3, 1817: Senator James Barbour of Virginia reports, from a select Senator James Barbour of Virginia reports, from a select
committee studying the issue, a resolution to admit Mississippi as a state. It committee studying the issue, a resolution to admit Mississippi as a state. It
passes the Senate without a recorded vote.353 passes the Senate without a recorded vote.353
• • December 8, 1817: The House passes the resolution “on the admission of the The House passes the resolution “on the admission of the
state of Mississippi into the Union” without a recorded vote.354 state of Mississippi into the Union” without a recorded vote.354
• • December 10, 1817: President James Monroe signs the resolution into law and President James Monroe signs the resolution into law and
Mississippi becomes the 20th state.355 Mississippi becomes the 20th state.355

~~345 1 Stat. 549.~~
~~346 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 17, 1817), p. 123; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(January 17, 1817), p. 71. The eastern part of Mississippi Territory became the Alabama Territory.~~
Missouri • April 30, 1803: The United States acquires the land that will become Missouri: 24th State Missouri from France in the Louisiana Missouri Territory created June 4, 1812 (2 Stat. 743) Purchase. It will become part of the Enabling law enacted March 6, 1820 (3 Stat. 545) Louisiana Territory, while the land Admission law enacted March 2, 1821 (3 Stat. 645) that will become Louisiana is Missouri admitted August 10, 1821 (3 Stat. 797) governed as the Orleans Territory.356 347 347 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 31, 1817), pp. 173-174; , 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 31, 1817), pp. 173-174; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd , vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd
sess. (January 31, 1817), p. 91. sess. (January 31, 1817), p. 91.
348 348 House Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1817), p. 473-474; , 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1817), p. 473-474; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd , vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd
sess. (February 26, 1817), p. 1034. sess. (February 26, 1817), p. 1034.
349 349 Senate Journal, 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 27, 1817), p. 330-331; , 14th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 27, 1817), p. 330-331; Annals of Congress, vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd , vol. 30, 14th Cong., 2nd
sess. (February 27, 1817), p. 184. sess. (February 27, 1817), p. 184.
350 3 Stat. 348. 350 3 Stat. 348.
351 Nuwer, “The State of Mississippi,” p. 663. 351 Nuwer, “The State of Mississippi,” p. 663.
352 Ibid. 352 Ibid.
353 353 Senate Journal, 15th Cong., 1st sess. (December 3, 1817), pp. 20-21; , 15th Cong., 1st sess. (December 3, 1817), pp. 20-21; Annals of Congress, vol. 31, 15th Cong. , vol. 31, 15th Cong.
(December 3, 1817), 1st sess., p. 20. (December 3, 1817), 1st sess., p. 20.
354 354 House Journal, 15th Cong., 1st sess. (December 8, 1817), p. 30; , 15th Cong., 1st sess. (December 8, 1817), p. 30; Annals of Congress, vol. 31, 15th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 31, 15th Cong., 1st sess.
(December 8, 1817), p. 409. (December 8, 1817), p. 409.
355 3 Stat. 472. 355 3 Stat. 472.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

46

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~Missouri~~
~~• April 30, 1803: The United States acquires the land that will become Missouri~~
~~from France in the Louisiana~~
~~Purchase. It will become part of the~~
~~Missouri: 24th State~~
~~Louisiana Territory, while the land~~
~~Missouri Territory created June 4, 1812 (2 Stat. 743)~~
~~that will become Louisiana is~~
~~Enabling law enacted March 6, 1820 (3 Stat. 545)~~
~~governed as the Orleans Territory.356~~
~~Admission law enacted March 2, 1821 (3 Stat. 645)~~
~~• November 14, 1811: Representative~~
~~Missouri admitted August 10, 1821 (3 Stat. 797)~~
356 William L. Olbrich Jr., “The State of Missouri,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 670-701. Congressional Research Service 46 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • November 14, 1811: Representative John Rhea of Tennessee reports, from John Rhea of Tennessee reports, from
a a select committee, a bill on the Louisiana Territory’s government.357 select committee, a bill on the Louisiana Territory’s government.357
• • April 9, 1812: House passes the Louisiana Territory bill without a recorded House passes the Louisiana Territory bill without a recorded
vote.358 vote.358
• • May 19, 1812: Senate passes an amended version of the Louisiana Territory bill Senate passes an amended version of the Louisiana Territory bill
without a recorded vote.359 without a recorded vote.359
• • May 21, 1812: House amends and passes the Senate-amended version of the House amends and passes the Senate-amended version of the
Louisiana Territory bill without a recorded vote.360 Senate then approves the Louisiana Territory bill without a recorded vote.360 Senate then approves the
House-amended version without a recorded vote.361 House-amended version without a recorded vote.361
• • June 4, 1812: President James Madison signs the act reorganizing the President James Madison signs the act reorganizing the
government of Louisiana Territory and giving it a new name: Missouri government of Louisiana Territory and giving it a new name: Missouri
Territory.362 Territory.362
• • February 13, 1819: Representative James Tallmadge of New York proposes Representative James Tallmadge of New York proposes
gradual emancipation in Missouri as a condition for statehood, setting off a gradual emancipation in Missouri as a condition for statehood, setting off a
sectional controversy over slavery. The eventual resolution, known as the sectional controversy over slavery. The eventual resolution, known as the
Missouri Compromise, includes the admission of Maine as a free state, the Missouri Compromise, includes the admission of Maine as a free state, the
admission of Missouri as a slave state, and the prohibition of slavery in the admission of Missouri as a slave state, and the prohibition of slavery in the
remainder of the Louisiana Purchase north of Missouri’s southern boundary (36° remainder of the Louisiana Purchase north of Missouri’s southern boundary (36°
30’ north latitude).363 30’ north latitude).363
• • March 1, 1820: House passes a bill, by a vote of 91 to 82, enabling Missouri to House passes a bill, by a vote of 91 to 82, enabling Missouri to
prepare a state constitution and government.364 prepare a state constitution and government.364

~~356 William L. Olbrich Jr., “The State of Missouri,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 670-701.~~
• March 2, 1820: Senate amends and passes the Missouri enabling bill without a recorded vote on final passage.365 House agrees to the Senate’s amendments by votes of 90-87 and 134-42 after the question was divided.366 • March 6, 1820: President James Monroe signs the act enabling Missouri residents to write a constitution and form a state government.367 357 357 House Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (November 14, 1811), p. 23; , 12th Cong., 1st sess. (November 14, 1811), p. 23; Annals of Congress, vol. 23, 12th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 23, 12th Cong., 1st sess.
(November 14, 1811), p. 348. (November 14, 1811), p. 348.
358 358 House Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (April 9, 1812), p. 284; , 12th Cong., 1st sess. (April 9, 1812), p. 284; Annals of Congress, vol. 24, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (April , vol. 24, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (April
9, 1812), p. 1279. 9, 1812), p. 1279.
359 359 Senate Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May 19, 1812), p. 133; , 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May 19, 1812), p. 133; Annals of Congress, vol. 23, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May , vol. 23, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May
19, 1812), pp. 242-243. 19, 1812), pp. 242-243.
360 House Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May 21, 1812), p. 347; 360 House Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May 21, 1812), p. 347; Annals of Congress, vol. 24, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May , vol. 24, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May
21, 1812), p. 1434. 21, 1812), p. 1434.
361 Senate Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May 21, 1812), p. 134; 361 Senate Journal, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May 21, 1812), p. 134; Annals of Congress, vol. 23, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May , vol. 23, 12th Cong., 1st sess. (May
21, 1812), p. 244. 21, 1812), p. 244.
362 2 Stat. 743. 362 2 Stat. 743.
363 Daniel Walker Howe, 363 Daniel Walker Howe, What Hath God Wrought: The Transformation of America, 1815-1848 (Oxford, UK: Oxford (Oxford, UK: Oxford
University Press, 2007), pp. 147-155. University Press, 2007), pp. 147-155.
364 364 House Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 1, 1820), pp. 269-270; , 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 1, 1820), pp. 269-270; Annals of Congress, vol. 36, 16th Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 36, 16th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 1, 1820), pp. 1572-1573. (March 1, 1820), pp. 1572-1573.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

47

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• March 2, 1820: Senate amends and passes the Missouri enabling bill without a~~
~~recorded vote on final passage.365 House agrees to the Senate’s amendments by~~
~~votes of 90-87 and 134-42 after the question was divided.366~~
~~• March 6, 1820: President James Monroe signs the act enabling Missouri~~
~~residents to write a constitution and form a state government.367~~365 Senate Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 2, 1820), pp. 200-203; Annals of Congress, vol. 35, 16th Cong. (March 2, 1820), 1st sess., pp. 467-469. 366 House Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 2, 1820), pp. 274-279; Annals of Congress, vol. 36, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 2, 1820), pp. 1576-1588. 367 3 Stat. 545. Congressional Research Service 47 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • June 12, 1820: Delegates gather in St. Louis to draft a state constitution.368 Delegates gather in St. Louis to draft a state constitution.368
• • July 17, 1820: Delegates at the St. Louis convention vote 39-1 to approve a new Delegates at the St. Louis convention vote 39-1 to approve a new
state constitution, which they sign two days later.369 state constitution, which they sign two days later.369
• • February 26, 1821: Representative Henry Clay of Kentucky reports, from a joint Representative Henry Clay of Kentucky reports, from a joint
committee appointed to consider Missouri statehood, a resolution granting committee appointed to consider Missouri statehood, a resolution granting
conditional admission to Missouri. The House approves the resolution by a vote conditional admission to Missouri. The House approves the resolution by a vote
of 87 to 81.370 of 87 to 81.370
• • February 28, 1821: Senate approves the resolution for conditional admission of Senate approves the resolution for conditional admission of
Missouri by a 28-14 vote.371 Missouri by a 28-14 vote.371
• • March 2, 1821: President Monroe signs the resolution granting statehood to President Monroe signs the resolution granting statehood to
Missouri, on the condition that its legislature agree the state constitution “shall Missouri, on the condition that its legislature agree the state constitution “shall
never be construed to authorize the passage of any law, and that no law shall be never be construed to authorize the passage of any law, and that no law shall be
passed in conformity thereto, by which any citizen … shall be excluded from the passed in conformity thereto, by which any citizen … shall be excluded from the
enjoyment of any of the privileges and immunities to which such citizen is enjoyment of any of the privileges and immunities to which such citizen is
entitled under the constitution of the United States.”372 entitled under the constitution of the United States.”372
• • August 10, 1821: President Monroe issues a proclamation admitting Missouri as President Monroe issues a proclamation admitting Missouri as
the 24th state.373 the 24th state.373
Montana
• • June 15, 1846: United United
States acquires part of the States acquires part of the
Montana: 41st State
land that will become land that will become
Montana Territory created May 26, 1864 (13 Stat. 85) Montana Territory created May 26, 1864 (13 Stat. 85)
Montana from Great Montana from Great
Enabling and statehood law enacted February 22, 1889 (25 Stat. 676) Enabling and statehood law enacted February 22, 1889 (25 Stat. 676)
Britain in the Oregon Britain in the Oregon
Montana admitted November 8, 1889 (26 Stat. 1551) Montana admitted November 8, 1889 (26 Stat. 1551)
Treaty, adding to land Treaty, adding to land
acquired from France in 1803 via the Louisiana Purchase.374 acquired from France in 1803 via the Louisiana Purchase.374

~~365 Senate Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 2, 1820), pp. 200-203; Annals of Congress, vol. 35, 16th Cong. (March~~
~~2, 1820), 1st sess., pp. 467-469.~~
~~366 House Journal, 16th Cong., 1st sess. (March 2, 1820), pp. 274-279; Annals of Congress, vol. 36, 16th Cong., 1st sess.~~
~~(March 2, 1820), pp. 1576-1588.~~
~~367 3 Stat. 545.~~
• December 14, 1863: Representative James M. Ashley of Ohio introduces 38 H.R. 15, a bill to create a new Territory of Montana.375 • March 17, 1864: House amends and passes 38 H.R. 15 without a recorded vote.376 368 368 Journal of the Missouri State Convention (St. Louis, MO: I.N. Henry and Co., 1820), p. 3. (St. Louis, MO: I.N. Henry and Co., 1820), p. 3.
369 369 Journal of the Missouri State Convention, pp. 46-48. , pp. 46-48.
370 370 House Journal, 16th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1821), pp. 270-271 and 274-278; , 16th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1821), pp. 270-271 and 274-278; Annals of Congress, vol. 37, , vol. 37,
16th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1821), pp. 1228 and 1236-1240. 16th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1821), pp. 1228 and 1236-1240.
371 371 Senate Journal, 16th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 28, 1821), pp. 239-240; , 16th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 28, 1821), pp. 239-240; Annals of Congress, vol. 37, 16th Cong., 2nd , vol. 37, 16th Cong., 2nd
sess. (February 28, 1821), p. 390. sess. (February 28, 1821), p. 390.
372 3 Stat. 645. 372 3 Stat. 645.
373 3 Stat. 797. 373 3 Stat. 797.
374 Harry W. Fritz, “The State of Montana,” in Shearer, 374 Harry W. Fritz, “The State of Montana,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 702-724. , vol. 2, pp. 702-724.
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48

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• December 14, 1863: Representative James M. Ashley of Ohio introduces 38~~
~~H.R. 15, a bill to create a new Territory of Montana.375~~
~~• March 17, 1864: House amends and passes 38 H.R. 15 without a recorded~~
~~vote.376~~375 House Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (December 14, 1863), p. 44; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (December 14, 1863), p. 20. 376 House Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17, 1864), p. 400; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17, 1864), pp. 1168-1169. Congressional Research Service 48 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • March 31, 1864: Senate amends 38 H.R. 15 and votes 29-8 to pass it.377 Senate amends 38 H.R. 15 and votes 29-8 to pass it.377
• • May 19, 1864: Senate votes 26-13 to approve a compromise version of 38 H.R. Senate votes 26-13 to approve a compromise version of 38 H.R.
15.378 15.378
• • May 20, 1864: House votes 102-26 to approve a compromise version of 38 H.R. House votes 102-26 to approve a compromise version of 38 H.R.
15.379 15.379
• • May 26, 1864: President Abraham Lincoln signs 38 H.R. 15 into law, creating President Abraham Lincoln signs 38 H.R. 15 into law, creating
the Montana Territory.380 the Montana Territory.380
• • December 12, 1887: Senator Charles F. Manderson of Nebraska introduces 50 S. Senator Charles F. Manderson of Nebraska introduces 50 S.
185, a bill to admit southern Dakota Territory as the State of Dakota and create a 185, a bill to admit southern Dakota Territory as the State of Dakota and create a
new Territory of Lincoln in northern Dakota Territory.381 new Territory of Lincoln in northern Dakota Territory.381
• • April 19, 1888: Senate votes 26-23 to pass an amended version of 50 S. 185 that Senate votes 26-23 to pass an amended version of 50 S. 185 that
would create a State of South Dakota and a new Territory of North Dakota.382 would create a State of South Dakota and a new Territory of North Dakota.382
• • January 18, 1889: Houses votes 145-98 to pass an amended version of 50 S. Houses votes 145-98 to pass an amended version of 50 S.
185. This new version would clear the way to admit Montana, New Mexico, 185. This new version would clear the way to admit Montana, New Mexico,
Washington, and—depending on the results of a referendum on division—either Washington, and—depending on the results of a referendum on division—either
a combined state of Dakota or separate states of North Dakota and South a combined state of Dakota or separate states of North Dakota and South
Dakota.383 Dakota.383
• • February 20, 1889: House and Senate agree to a compromise version of 50 S. House and Senate agree to a compromise version of 50 S.
185 that allows the creation and admission of four new states: Montana, North 185 that allows the creation and admission of four new states: Montana, North
Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington. Both chambers pass the bill without Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington. Both chambers pass the bill without
recorded votes.384 recorded votes.384
• • February 22, 1889: President Grover Cleveland signs 50 S. 185, enabling President Grover Cleveland signs 50 S. 185, enabling
statehood for Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington.385 statehood for Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington.385

~~375 House Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (December 14, 1863), p. 44; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess.~~
~~(December 14, 1863), p. 20.~~
~~376 House Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17, 1864), p. 400; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17,~~
~~1864), pp. 1168-1169.~~
• July 4, 1889: Delegates gather in Helena to write a state constitution for Montana.386 • August 17, 1889: Delegates to the Helena convention vote 61-2 to adopt the new Montana state constitution.387 377 377 Senate Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 31, 1864), p. 290; , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 31, 1864), p. 290; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 31, , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 31,
1864), pp. 1361-1364. 1864), pp. 1361-1364.
378 378 Senate Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (May 19, 1864), pp. 455-456; , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (May 19, 1864), pp. 455-456; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (May , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (May
19, 1864), pp. 2347-2351. 19, 1864), pp. 2347-2351.
379 379 House Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (May 20, 1864), pp. 680-681; , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (May 20, 1864), pp. 680-681; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (May , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (May
20, 1864), pp. 2385-2386. 20, 1864), pp. 2385-2386.
380 13 Stat. 85. 380 13 Stat. 85.
381 381 Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 1st sess. (December 12, 1887), p. 33; , 50th Cong., 1st sess. (December 12, 1887), p. 33; Congressional Record, vol. 19, part 1 (December , vol. 19, part 1 (December
12, 1887), p. 22. 12, 1887), p. 22.
382 382 Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 1st sess. (April 19, 1888), pp. 695-696; , 50th Cong., 1st sess. (April 19, 1888), pp. 695-696; Congressional Record, vol. 19, part 4 (April 19, , vol. 19, part 4 (April 19,
1888), pp. 3139-3140. 1888), pp. 3139-3140.
383 383 House Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1889), pp. 290-298; , 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1889), pp. 290-298; Congressional Record, vol. 20, part 1 , vol. 20, part 1
(January 18, 1889), pp. 951-952. (January 18, 1889), pp. 951-952.
384 384 House Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 20, 1889), pp. 561-570; , 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 20, 1889), pp. 561-570; Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. , 50th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 20, 1889), pp. 357-366; (February 20, 1889), pp. 357-366; Congressional Record, vol. 20, part 3 (February 20, 1889), pp. 2104 and 2116. , vol. 20, part 3 (February 20, 1889), pp. 2104 and 2116.
385 25 Stat. 676. 385 25 Stat. 676.
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49

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• July 4, 1889: Delegates gather in Helena to write a state constitution for~~
~~Montana.386~~
~~• August 17, 1889: Delegates to the Helena convention vote 61-2 to adopt the new~~
~~Montana state constitution.387~~386 Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention Held in the City of Helena, Montana, July 4th, 1889, August 17th, 1889 (Helena, MT: State Publishing Co., 1921), p. 13. 387 Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention Held in the City of Helena, p. 971. Congressional Research Service 49 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • October 1, 1889: Montana voters ratify the new state constitution, 24,676 to Montana voters ratify the new state constitution, 24,676 to
2,274.388 2,274.388
• • November 8, 1889: President Benjamin Harrison issues a proclamation President Benjamin Harrison issues a proclamation
admitting Montana as the 41st state.389 admitting Montana as the 41st state.389
Nebraska
• • April 30, 1803: United States United States
acquires the land that will become acquires the land that will become
Nebraska: 37th State
Nebraska from France in the Nebraska from France in the
Nebraska Territory created May 30, 1854 (10 Stat. 277) Nebraska Territory created May 30, 1854 (10 Stat. 277)
Louisiana Purchase.390 Louisiana Purchase.390
Enabling law enacted April 19, 1864 (13 Stat. 47) Enabling law enacted April 19, 1864 (13 Stat. 47)
• •
Admission law enacted February 9, 1867 (14 Stat. 391) Admission law enacted February 9, 1867 (14 Stat. 391)
December 14, 1853: Senator Senator
Augustus Caesar Dodge of Iowa Augustus Caesar Dodge of Iowa
Nebraska admitted March 1, 1867 (14 Stat. 820) Nebraska admitted March 1, 1867 (14 Stat. 820)
introduces 33 S. 22, a bill to introduces 33 S. 22, a bill to
create a new Nebraska Territory.391 create a new Nebraska Territory.391
• • January 31, 1854: Representative William A. Richardson of Illinois reports 33 Representative William A. Richardson of Illinois reports 33
H.R. 236, a bill creating new territorial governments for Kansas and Nebraska, H.R. 236, a bill creating new territorial governments for Kansas and Nebraska,
from the House Committee on Territories.392 from the House Committee on Territories.392
• • March 3, 1854: Senate votes 37-14 to pass 33 S. 22, which as amended would Senate votes 37-14 to pass 33 S. 22, which as amended would
create two new territories, Kansas and Nebraska.393 create two new territories, Kansas and Nebraska.393
• • May 22, 1854: House passes an amended version of 33 H.R. 236 on a 113-100 House passes an amended version of 33 H.R. 236 on a 113-100
vote, in lieu of voting on the Senate-passed 33 S. 22.394 vote, in lieu of voting on the Senate-passed 33 S. 22.394
• • May 25, 1854: Senate passes 33 H.R. 236 on a 35-13 vote.395 Senate passes 33 H.R. 236 on a 35-13 vote.395
• • May 30, 1854: President Franklin Pierce signs 33 H.R. 236 into law, creating the President Franklin Pierce signs 33 H.R. 236 into law, creating the
Kansas and Nebraska territories and repealing the 1820 Missouri Compromise Kansas and Nebraska territories and repealing the 1820 Missouri Compromise
that would have barred slavery there. Instead, the Kansas-Nebraska Act leaves that would have barred slavery there. Instead, the Kansas-Nebraska Act leaves

~~386~~ ~~Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention Held in the City of Helena, Montana, July 4th, 1889,~~
~~August 17th, 1889~~ ~~(Helena, MT: State Publishing Co., 1921), p. 13.~~
~~387 Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention Held in the City of Helena, p. 971.~~
residents of the two territories “perfectly free to form and regulate their domestic institutions in their own way.”396 388 Ellis L. Waldron, 388 Ellis L. Waldron, Montana Politics Since 1864: An Atlas of Elections (Missoula, MT: Montana State University (Missoula, MT: Montana State University
Press, 1958), p. 54. Press, 1958), p. 54.
389 26 Stat. 1551. 389 26 Stat. 1551.
390 Mark R. Ellis, “The State of Nebraska,” in Shearer, 390 Mark R. Ellis, “The State of Nebraska,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 725-752. , vol. 2, pp. 725-752.
391 391 Senate Journal, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (December 14, 1853), p. 44; , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (December 14, 1853), p. 44; Congressional Globe, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. , 33rd Cong., 1st sess.
(December 14, 1853), p. 44. (December 14, 1853), p. 44.
392 392 House Journal, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (January 31, 1854), p. 296; , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (January 31, 1854), p. 296; Congressional Globe, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (January , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (January
31, 1854), pp. 294-297. 31, 1854), pp. 294-297.
393 393 Senate Journal, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1854), pp. 236-237; , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (March 3, 1854), pp. 236-237; Congressional Globe, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. , 33rd Cong., 1st sess.
(March 3, 1854), pp. 531-532. (March 3, 1854), pp. 531-532.
394 394 House Journal, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May 22, 1854), pp. 923-924; , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May 22, 1854), pp. 923-924; Congressional Globe, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May
22, 1854), p. 1254. 22, 1854), p. 1254.
395 395 Senate Journal, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May 25, 1854), pp. 412-413; , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May 25, 1854), pp. 412-413; Congressional Globe, 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May , 33rd Cong., 1st sess. (May
25, 1854), p. 1321. 25, 1854), p. 1321.
396 10 Stat. 277. Additional documents related to the Kansas-Nebraska Act are available in the Library of Congress research guide “Kansas-Nebraska Act: Primary Documents in American History,” at https://guides.loc.gov/kansas-nebraska-act. Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

50 50

Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide

~~residents of the two territories “perfectly free to form and regulate their domestic~~
~~institutions in their own way.”396~~
• • December 14, 1863: Representative James M. Ashley of Ohio introduces 38 Representative James M. Ashley of Ohio introduces 38
H.R. 14½, a bill to enable the people of Nebraska to write a constitution and form H.R. 14½, a bill to enable the people of Nebraska to write a constitution and form
a state government.397 a state government.397
• • March 17, 1864: House passes 38 H.R. 14½ without a recorded vote.398 : House passes 38 H.R. 14½ without a recorded vote.398
• • April 14, 1864: Senate passes 38 H.R. 14½ without a recorded vote.399 Senate passes 38 H.R. 14½ without a recorded vote.399
• • April 19, 1864: President Abraham Lincoln signs the Nebraska enabling act into : President Abraham Lincoln signs the Nebraska enabling act into
law.400 law.400
• • June 2, 1866: Following an abortive constitutional convention in 1864, Nebraska Following an abortive constitutional convention in 1864, Nebraska
voters ratify a state constitution written by the territorial legislature, 3,938 to voters ratify a state constitution written by the territorial legislature, 3,938 to
3,838.401 3,838.401
• • December 5, 1866: Senator Benjamin Wade of Ohio introduces 39 S. 456, a bill Senator Benjamin Wade of Ohio introduces 39 S. 456, a bill
to admit Nebraska as a state.402 to admit Nebraska as a state.402
• • January 9, 1867: Senate votes 24-15 to pass an amended version of 39 S. 456.403 Senate votes 24-15 to pass an amended version of 39 S. 456.403
• • January 15, 1867: House votes 103-55 to pass an amended version of 39 S. House votes 103-55 to pass an amended version of 39 S.
456.404 456.404
• • January 16, 1867: Senate votes 28-14 to accept the House’s version of 39 S. Senate votes 28-14 to accept the House’s version of 39 S.
456.405 456.405
• • January 30, 1867: President Andrew Johnson vetoes 39 S. 456, the Nebraska President Andrew Johnson vetoes 39 S. 456, the Nebraska
statehood act. He objected to its requirement that “there shall be no denial of the statehood act. He objected to its requirement that “there shall be no denial of the
elective franchise, or of any other right, to any person, by reason of race or color” elective franchise, or of any other right, to any person, by reason of race or color”
in Nebraska.406 in Nebraska.406

~~396 10 Stat. 277. Additional documents related to the Kansas-Nebraska Act are available in the Library of Congress~~
~~research guide “Kansas-Nebraska Act: Primary Documents in American History,” at https://guides.loc.gov/kansas-~~
~~nebraska-act.~~
• February 8, 1867: Senate overrides President Johnson’s veto of 39 S. 456 by a 31-9 vote.407 397 397 House Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (December 14, 1863), p. 44; , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (December 14, 1863), p. 44; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. , 38th Cong., 1st sess.
(December 14, 1863), pp. 19-20. (December 14, 1863), pp. 19-20.
398 398 House Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17, 1864), pp. 399-400; , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17, 1864), pp. 399-400; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. , 38th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 17, 1864), p. 1167. (March 17, 1864), p. 1167.
399 399 Senate Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (April 14, 1864), p. 324; , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (April 14, 1864), p. 324; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (April 14, , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (April 14,
1864), p. 1607. 1864), p. 1607.
400 13 Stat. 47. 400 13 Stat. 47.
401 Addison E. Sheldon (ed.), 401 Addison E. Sheldon (ed.), Nebraska Constitutions of 1866, 1871 & 1875 and Proposed Amendments Submitted to
the People September 21, 1920 (Lincoln, NE: Nebraska Legislative Reference Bureau and Nebraska State Historical (Lincoln, NE: Nebraska Legislative Reference Bureau and Nebraska State Historical
Society, 1920), p. 2. Society, 1920), p. 2.
402 402 Senate Journal, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 5, 1866), p. 19; , 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 5, 1866), p. 19; Congressional Globe, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. , 39th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 5, 1866), p. 13. (December 5, 1866), p. 13.
403 403 Senate Journal, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 9, 1867), pp. 81-83; , 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 9, 1867), pp. 81-83; Congressional Globe, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. , 39th Cong., 2nd sess.
(January 9, 1867), p. 360. (January 9, 1867), p. 360.
404 404 House Journal, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 15, 1867), pp. 172-174; , 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 15, 1867), pp. 172-174; Congressional Globe, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. , 39th Cong., 2nd sess.
(January 15, 1867), p. 481. (January 15, 1867), p. 481.
405 405 Senate Journal, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 16, 1867), pp. 104-106; , 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 16, 1867), pp. 104-106; Congressional Globe, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. , 39th Cong., 2nd sess.
(January 16, 1867), pp. 484-487. (January 16, 1867), pp. 484-487.
406 Poore, 406 Poore, Veto Messages, p. 337-340, p. 337-340. 407 Senate Journal, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 8, 1867), p. 228; Congressional Globe, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 8, 1867), p. 1096. .
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• • February 8, 1867: Senate overrides President Johnson’s veto of 39 S. 456 by a
~~31-9 vote.407~~
• February 9, 1867: House overrides President Johnson’s veto of 39 S. 456 by a House overrides President Johnson’s veto of 39 S. 456 by a
120-44 vote, enacting it into law.408 120-44 vote, enacting it into law.408
• • March 1, 1867: President Johnson issues a proclamation admitting Nebraska as President Johnson issues a proclamation admitting Nebraska as
the 37th state.409 the 37th state.409
Nevada
• • February 2, 1848: The The
United States acquires the United States acquires the
Nevada: 36th State
land that will become Nevada land that will become Nevada
Nevada Territory created March 2, 1861 (12 Stat. 209) Nevada Territory created March 2, 1861 (12 Stat. 209)
from Mexico in the Treaty of from Mexico in the Treaty of
Enabling and admission law enacted March 21, 1864 (13 Stat. 30) Enabling and admission law enacted March 21, 1864 (13 Stat. 30)
Guadalupe Hidalgo.410 Guadalupe Hidalgo.410
Nevada admitted October 31, 1864 (13 Stat. 749) Nevada admitted October 31, 1864 (13 Stat. 749)
• • February 14, 1861: Senator Senator
James S. Green of Missouri reports 36 S. 563, a bill creating the Nevada James S. Green of Missouri reports 36 S. 563, a bill creating the Nevada
Territory, from the Senate Committee on Territories.411 Territory, from the Senate Committee on Territories.411
• • February 26, 1861: Senate amends 36 S. 563 and passes it without a recorded Senate amends 36 S. 563 and passes it without a recorded
vote.412 vote.412
• • March 1, 1861: House votes to pass 36 S. 563.413 House votes to pass 36 S. 563.413
• • March 2, 1861: President James Buchanan signs 36 S. 563, creating the Nevada President James Buchanan signs 36 S. 563, creating the Nevada
Territory.414 Territory.414
• • February 8, 1864: Senator James R. Doolittle of Wisconsin introduces 38 S. 96, Senator James R. Doolittle of Wisconsin introduces 38 S. 96,
a bill that would enable Nevada residents to write a constitution and form a state a bill that would enable Nevada residents to write a constitution and form a state
government, followed by its admission as a state.415 government, followed by its admission as a state.415
• • February 24, 1864: Senate amends and passes 38 S. 96 without a recorded Senate amends and passes 38 S. 96 without a recorded
vote.416 vote.416

~~407 Senate Journal, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 8, 1867), p. 228; Congressional Globe, 39th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(February 8, 1867), p. 1096.~~
• March 17, 1864: House passes 38 S. 96 without a recorded vote.417 • March 21, 1864: President Abraham Lincoln signs 38 S. 96 into law.418 408 408 House Journal, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 9, 1867), p. 354; , 39th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 9, 1867), p. 354; Congressional Globe, 39th Cong., 2nd sess. , 39th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 9, 1867), pp. 1120-1122; 14 Stat. 391. (February 9, 1867), pp. 1120-1122; 14 Stat. 391.
409 14 Stat. 820. 409 14 Stat. 820.
410 Jeffrey M. Kintop, “The State of Nevada,” in Shearer, 410 Jeffrey M. Kintop, “The State of Nevada,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 753-788. , vol. 2, pp. 753-788.
411 411 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 14, 1861), p. 228; , 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 14, 1861), p. 228; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. , 36th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 14, 1861), p. 897. (February 14, 1861), p. 897.
412 412 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 314-316; , 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 314-316; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. , 36th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 26, 1861), pp. 1206-1207. (February 26, 1861), pp. 1206-1207.
413 The 413 The House Journal reports the vote as 92-52, while the reports the vote as 92-52, while the Congressional Globe reports the vote as 91-52. See reports the vote as 91-52. See House
Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1861), pp. 450-452, and , 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1861), pp. 450-452, and Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, , 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1,
1861), p. 1334. 1861), p. 1334.
414 12 Stat. 209. 414 12 Stat. 209.
415 415 Senate Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (February 8, 1864), p. 133; , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (February 8, 1864), p. 133; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (February , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (February
8, 1864), p. 521. 8, 1864), p. 521.
416 416 Senate Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (February 24, 1864), p. 184; , 38th Cong., 1st sess. (February 24, 1864), p. 184; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. , 38th Cong., 1st sess.
(February 24, 1864), pp. 787-788. (February 24, 1864), pp. 787-788.
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~~• March 17, 1864: House passes 38 S. 96 without a recorded vote.417~~
~~• March 21, 1864: President Abraham Lincoln signs 38 S. 96 into law.418~~
417 House Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17, 1864), p. 398; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17, 1864), p. 1166. 418 13 Stat. 30. Congressional Research Service 52 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • July 4, 1864: Delegates gather in Carson City to write a state constitution for Delegates gather in Carson City to write a state constitution for
Nevada.419 Nevada.419
• • July 27, 1864: Delegates at the Carson City convention vote 19-2 to approve the Delegates at the Carson City convention vote 19-2 to approve the
state constitution.420 state constitution.420
• • September 7, 1864: Nevada voters ratify the state constitution, 10,375-1,284.421 Nevada voters ratify the state constitution, 10,375-1,284.421
• • October 31, 1864: President Lincoln issues a proclamation admitting Nevada as President Lincoln issues a proclamation admitting Nevada as
the 36th state.422 the 36th state.422
New Hampshire
• • September 18, 1679: King Charles II King Charles II
New Hampshire: Ninth State
appoints a government for the appoints a government for the
“Province of New-Hampshire.”423“Province of New-Hampshire.”423
New Hampshire ratified Constitution June 21, 1788 New Hampshire ratified Constitution June 21, 1788

• • July 4, 1776: New Hampshire joins New Hampshire joins
12 other colonies in declaring independence from Great Britain.424 12 other colonies in declaring independence from Great Britain.424
• • July 9, 1778: New Hampshire signs the Articles of Confederation.425 New Hampshire signs the Articles of Confederation.425
• • May 14-September 17, 1787: Two of New Hampshire’s four delegates Two of New Hampshire’s four delegates
participate in the Constitutional Convention.426 participate in the Constitutional Convention.426
• • June 21, 1788: New Hampshire’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a 57-47 New Hampshire’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a 57-47
vote, achieving Article VII’s nine-state threshold for implementation.427 vote, achieving Article VII’s nine-state threshold for implementation.427

~~417 House Journal, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17, 1864), p. 398; Congressional Globe, 38th Cong., 1st sess. (March 17,~~
~~1864), p. 1166.~~
~~418 13 Stat. 30.~~
New Jersey • April 17, 1702: Queen Anne establishes British royal control over New Jersey: Third State New Jersey.428 New Jersey ratified Constitution December 18, 1787 • July 4, 1776: New Jersey joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence from Great Britain.429 419 Andrew J. Marsh, 419 Andrew J. Marsh, Official Report of the Debates and Proceedings in the Constitutional Convention of the State of
Nevada, Assembled at Carson City, July 4th 1864, to Form a Constitution and State Government (San Francisco: Frank (San Francisco: Frank
Eastman, 1866), p. 1. Eastman, 1866), p. 1.
420 Marsh, 420 Marsh, Official Report, p. 827. , p. 827.
421 Russell R. Elliott with the assistance of William D. Rowley, 421 Russell R. Elliott with the assistance of William D. Rowley, History of Nevada, 2nd ed. (Lincoln, NE: University of , 2nd ed. (Lincoln, NE: University of
Nebraska Press, 1987), p. 88. Nebraska Press, 1987), p. 88.
422 13 Stat. 749. 422 13 Stat. 749.
423 “The Commission Constituting a President and Council for the Province of New-Hampshire, in New England,” in 423 “The Commission Constituting a President and Council for the Province of New-Hampshire, in New England,” in
Provincial Papers. Documents and Records Relating to the Province of New-Hampshire, From the Earliest Period of
Its Settlement: 1623-1686, vol. 1, ed. Nathaniel Bouton (Concord, NH: George E. Jenks, 1867), pp. 373-382. , vol. 1, ed. Nathaniel Bouton (Concord, NH: George E. Jenks, 1867), pp. 373-382.
424 424 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. , vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.
425 425 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677. , vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677.
426 Farrand, 426 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 557. , vol. 3, p. 557.
427 Elliot, 427 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 325-327; , vol. 1, pp. 325-327; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 28, pp. 375-, vol. 28, pp. 375-
376. 376.
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~~New Jersey~~
~~• April 17, 1702: Queen Anne establishes British royal control over New Jersey.428~~
~~• July 4, 1776: New Jersey joins 12~~
~~other colonies in declaring~~
~~New Jersey: Third State~~
~~independence from Great Britain.429~~
~~New Jersey ratified Constitution December 18, 1787~~428 “The Queen’s Acceptance of the Surrender of Government” and “Surrender from the Proprietors of East and West New Jersey, of Their Pretended Right of Government to Her Majesty,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 5, pp. 2584-2590. 429 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. Congressional Research Service 53 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • November 26, 1778: New Jersey
~~• November 26, 1778: New Jersey~~
signs the Articles of Confederation.430 signs the Articles of Confederation.430
• • May 14-September 17, 1787: Five of New Jersey’s seven delegates participate Five of New Jersey’s seven delegates participate
in the Constitutional Convention.431 in the Constitutional Convention.431
• • December 18, 1787: New Jersey’s convention votes 38-0 to ratify the New Jersey’s convention votes 38-0 to ratify the
Constitution, making it the third state to join the new federal government.432 Constitution, making it the third state to join the new federal government.432
New Mexico
• • December 29, 1845: The The
United States acquires part of United States acquires part of
New Mexico: 47th State
the land that will become New the land that will become New
New Mexico Territory created September 9, 1850 (9 Stat. 446) New Mexico Territory created September 9, 1850 (9 Stat. 446)
Mexico through the annexation Mexico through the annexation
Enabling law enacted June 20, 1910 (36 Stat. 557) Enabling law enacted June 20, 1910 (36 Stat. 557)
of Texas, with additional of Texas, with additional
territory to come in the 1848 territory to come in the 1848
Admission law enacted August 21, 1911 (37 Stat. 39) Admission law enacted August 21, 1911 (37 Stat. 39)
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
New Mexico admitted January 6, 1912 (37 Stat. 1723) New Mexico admitted January 6, 1912 (37 Stat. 1723)
and the 1854 Gadsden and the 1854 Gadsden
Purchase.433 Purchase.433
• • January 29, 1850: Senator Henry Clay of Kentucky proposes what becomes the Senator Henry Clay of Kentucky proposes what becomes the
Compromise of 1850, a legislative package that includes organizing a territorial Compromise of 1850, a legislative package that includes organizing a territorial
government for New Mexico and settling the Texas-New Mexico border.434 government for New Mexico and settling the Texas-New Mexico border.434
• • August 5, 1850: Senator James A. Pearce of Maryland introduces 31 S. 307, a Senator James A. Pearce of Maryland introduces 31 S. 307, a
bill to settle the northern and western borders of Texas.435 bill to settle the northern and western borders of Texas.435
• • August 9, 1850: Senate amends and passes 31 S. 307 by a vote of 30 to 20.436 Senate amends and passes 31 S. 307 by a vote of 30 to 20.436

~~428 “The Queen’s Acceptance of the Surrender of Government” and “Surrender from the Proprietors of East and West~~
~~New Jersey, of Their Pretended Right of Government to Her Majesty,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol.~~
~~5, pp. 2584-2590.~~
~~429 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.~~
~~430~~ • September 6, 1850: House votes 108-97 to pass an amended version of 31 S. 307, adding language to create the New Mexico Territory.437 • September 9, 1850: Senate endorses the House’s amendment to 31 S. 307 on a 31-10 vote.438 President Millard Fillmore signs 31 S. 307 into law, creating the New Mexico Territory.439 430 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 12 (November 26, 1778), p. 1164. , vol. 12 (November 26, 1778), p. 1164.
431 Farrand, 431 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 557. , vol. 3, p. 557.
432 Elliot, 432 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 320-321; , vol. 1, pp. 320-321; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 3, pp. 177-, vol. 3, pp. 177-
191. 191.
433 Agnesa Reeve, “The State of New Mexico,” in Shearer, 433 Agnesa Reeve, “The State of New Mexico,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 842-869. , vol. 2, pp. 842-869.
434 McPherson, 434 McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom, pp. 70-75. , pp. 70-75.
435 435 Senate Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 5, 1850), p. 522; , 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 5, 1850), p. 522; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 5, , 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 5,
1850), pp. 1520-1521. 1850), pp. 1520-1521.
436 436 Senate Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 9, 1850), pp. 538-543; , 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 9, 1850), pp. 538-543; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. , 31st Cong., 1st sess.
(August 9, 1850), pp. 1554-1556. (August 9, 1850), pp. 1554-1556.
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~~• September 6, 1850: House votes 108-97 to pass an amended version of 31 S.~~
~~307, adding language to create the New Mexico Territory.437~~
~~• September 9, 1850: Senate endorses the House’s amendment to 31 S. 307 on a~~
~~31-10 vote.438 President Millard Fillmore signs 31 S. 307 into law, creating the~~
~~New Mexico Territory.439~~437 House Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (September 6, 1850), pp. 1404-1413; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (September 6, 1850), pp. 1762-1765. 438 Senate Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (September 9, 1850), pp. 606-613; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (September 9, 1850), p. 1784. 439 9 Stat. 446. Congressional Research Service 54 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • January 14, 1910: Representative Edward L. Hamilton of Michigan introduces Representative Edward L. Hamilton of Michigan introduces
61 H.R. 18166, which would enable Arizona and New Mexico to write 61 H.R. 18166, which would enable Arizona and New Mexico to write
constitutions in preparation for statehood.440 constitutions in preparation for statehood.440
• • January 17, 1910: House suspends the rules and passes 61 H.R. 18166 without a House suspends the rules and passes 61 H.R. 18166 without a
recorded vote.441 recorded vote.441
• • June 16, 1910: Senate amends 61 H.R. 18166, then passes it on a 65-0 vote.442 Senate amends 61 H.R. 18166, then passes it on a 65-0 vote.442
• • June 18, 1910: House passes Senate-amended version of 61 H.R. 18166 without House passes Senate-amended version of 61 H.R. 18166 without
a recorded vote.443 a recorded vote.443
• • June 20, 1910: President William Howard Taft signs 61 H.R. 18166 into law, President William Howard Taft signs 61 H.R. 18166 into law,
enabling Arizona and New Mexico to form constitutions and state enabling Arizona and New Mexico to form constitutions and state
governments.444 governments.444
• • October 3, 1910: Delegates gather in Santa Fe to write a state constitution for Delegates gather in Santa Fe to write a state constitution for
New Mexico.445 New Mexico.445
• • November 21, 1910: Delegates to the Santa Fe convention vote 79-18 to adopt a Delegates to the Santa Fe convention vote 79-18 to adopt a
state constitution.446 state constitution.446
• • January 21, 1911: New Mexico voters ratify the state constitution by a vote of New Mexico voters ratify the state constitution by a vote of
31,742 to 13,399.447 31,742 to 13,399.447
• • August 15, 1911: President Taft vetoes 62 H.J.Res. 14, a joint resolution to admit President Taft vetoes 62 H.J.Res. 14, a joint resolution to admit
Arizona and New Mexico as states, objecting to the provision of Arizona’s Arizona and New Mexico as states, objecting to the provision of Arizona’s
constitution that allows voters to recall judges.448 constitution that allows voters to recall judges.448

~~437 House Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (September 6, 1850), pp. 1404-1413; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess.~~
~~(September 6, 1850), pp. 1762-1765.~~
~~438 Senate Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (September 9, 1850), pp. 606-613; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess.~~
~~(September 9, 1850), p. 1784.~~
~~439 9 Stat. 446.~~
• August 17, 1911: Senator William A. Smith of Michigan reports 62 S.J.Res. 57 from the Senate Committee on Territories. This joint resolution would admit Arizona and New Mexico as states but would first require Arizona to remove judicial recall from its state constitution.449 • August 18, 1911: Senate debates and passes 62 S.J.Res. 57 on a 53-9 vote.450 440 440 House Journal, 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (January 14, 1910), p. 168; , 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (January 14, 1910), p. 168; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 1 (January 14, , vol. 45, part 1 (January 14,
1910), p. 654. 1910), p. 654.
441 441 House Journal, 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (January 17, 1910), pp. 175-176; , 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (January 17, 1910), pp. 175-176; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 1 (January , vol. 45, part 1 (January
17, 1910), pp. 702-714. 17, 1910), pp. 702-714.
442 442 Senate Journal, 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (June 16, 1910), pp. 452-453; , 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (June 16, 1910), pp. 452-453; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 8 (June 16, , vol. 45, part 8 (June 16,
1910), pp. 8225-8237. 1910), pp. 8225-8237.
443 443 House Journal, 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (June 18, 1910), p. 803; , 61st Cong., 2nd sess. (June 18, 1910), p. 803; Congressional Record, vol. 45, part 8 (June 18, 1910), , vol. 45, part 8 (June 18, 1910),
pp. 8485-8487. pp. 8485-8487.
444 36 Stat. 557. 444 36 Stat. 557.
445 445 Proceedings of the Constitutional Convention of the Proposed State of New Mexico Held at Santa Fe, New Mexico
(Albuquerque, NM: Press of the Morning Journal, 1910), p. 3. (Albuquerque, NM: Press of the Morning Journal, 1910), p. 3.
446 446 Proceedings of the Constitutional Convention of the Proposed State of New Mexico, p. 252. , p. 252.
447 William J. Mills, 447 William J. Mills, Report of the Governor of New Mexico to the Secretary of the Interior for the Fiscal Year Ended
June 30, 1911 (Washington: GPO, 1911), p. 9. (Washington: GPO, 1911), p. 9.
448 Taft, 448 Taft, Special Message of the President of the United States Returning Without Approval House Joint Resolution No.
14, H. Doc. 62-106 (Washington: GPO, 1911). , H. Doc. 62-106 (Washington: GPO, 1911).
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~~• August 17, 1911: Senator William A. Smith of Michigan reports 62 S.J.Res. 57~~
~~from the Senate Committee on Territories. This joint resolution would admit~~
~~Arizona and New Mexico as states but would first require Arizona to remove~~
~~judicial recall from its state constitution.449~~
~~• August 18, 1911: Senate debates and passes 62 S.J.Res. 57 on a 53-9 vote.450~~
449 Senate Journal, 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 17, 1911), p. 178; Congressional Record, vol. 47, part 4 (August 17, 1911), p. 4061. 450 Senate Journal, 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 18, 1911), p. 185; Congressional Record, vol. 47, part 4 (August 18, 1911), pp. 4118-4141. Congressional Research Service 55 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • August 19, 1911: House debates and passes 62 S.J.Res. 57 without a recorded House debates and passes 62 S.J.Res. 57 without a recorded
vote.451 vote.451
• • August 21, 1911: President Taft signs 62 S.J.Res. 57 into law, admitting New President Taft signs 62 S.J.Res. 57 into law, admitting New
Mexico and Arizona as states once certain conditions have been met, including a Mexico and Arizona as states once certain conditions have been met, including a
vote on a change to the New Mexico constitution’s amendment process.452 vote on a change to the New Mexico constitution’s amendment process.452
• • November 7, 1911: New Mexico voters approve the congressionally-proposed New Mexico voters approve the congressionally-proposed
constitutional amendment by a vote of 34,897 to 22,831.453 constitutional amendment by a vote of 34,897 to 22,831.453
• • January 6, 1912: President Taft issues a proclamation formally admitting New President Taft issues a proclamation formally admitting New
Mexico as the 47th state.454 Mexico as the 47th state.454
New York
• • September 8, 1664: English forces English forces
New York: 11th State
capture New Amsterdam, renaming it capture New Amsterdam, renaming it
New York ratified Constitution July 26, 1788 New York ratified Constitution July 26, 1788
New York, during the Second Anglo- New York, during the Second Anglo-
Dutch War. The Treaty of Breda in Dutch War. The Treaty of Breda in
1667 confirms English control of the New Netherland colony.455 1667 confirms English control of the New Netherland colony.455
• • July 15, 1776: New York, after earlier abstaining, informs the Continental New York, after earlier abstaining, informs the Continental
Congress that it joins its 12 fellow colonies in declaring independence from Great Congress that it joins its 12 fellow colonies in declaring independence from Great
Britian.456 Britian.456
• • July 9, 1778: New York signs the Articles of Confederation.457 New York signs the Articles of Confederation.457
• • May 14-September 17, 1787: New York’s three delegates participate in the New York’s three delegates participate in the
Constitutional Convention.458 Constitutional Convention.458

~~449 Senate Journal, 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 17, 1911), p. 178; Congressional Record, vol. 47, part 4 (August 17,~~
~~1911), p. 4061.~~
~~450 Senate Journal, 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 18, 1911), p. 185; Congressional Record, vol. 47, part 4 (August 18,~~
~~1911), pp. 4118-4141.~~
• July 26, 1788: New York’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a 30-27 vote, making it the 11th state to join the new federal government.459 North Carolina • March 24, 1663: King Charles II North Carolina: 12th State grants a charter to eight men, later known as the “Lords Proprietors,” North Carolina ratified Constitution November 21, 1789 451 451 House Journal, 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 19, 1911), p. 390; , 62nd Cong., 1st sess. (August 19, 1911), p. 390; Congressional Record, vol. 47, part 5 (August 19, , vol. 47, part 5 (August 19,
1911), pp. 4217-4242. 1911), pp. 4217-4242.
452 37 Stat. 39. 452 37 Stat. 39.
453 Annotations for Article XIX (Amendments) in 453 Annotations for Article XIX (Amendments) in Constitution of the State of New Mexico, New Mexico Compilation , New Mexico Compilation
Commission, at https://nmonesource.com/nmos/c/en/item/5916/index.do#!b/aXIX. Commission, at https://nmonesource.com/nmos/c/en/item/5916/index.do#!b/aXIX.
454 37 Stat. 1723. 454 37 Stat. 1723.
455 Charles T. Gehring, “New Netherland, Surrender of (1664),” in 455 Charles T. Gehring, “New Netherland, Surrender of (1664),” in Colonial Wars of North America, 1512-1763: An
Encyclopedia, ed. Alan Gallay (New York and London: Garland Publishing, 1996), pp. 489-491. , ed. Alan Gallay (New York and London: Garland Publishing, 1996), pp. 489-491.
456 456 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4 and July 15, 1776), pp. 516 and 560. , vol. 5 (July 4 and July 15, 1776), pp. 516 and 560.
457 457 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677. , vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677.
458 Farrand, 458 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 557. , vol. 3, p. 557.
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~~• July 26, 1788: New York’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a 30-27 vote,~~
~~making it the 11th state to join the new federal government.459~~
~~North Carolina~~
~~• March 24, 1663: King Charles II~~
~~North Carolina: 12th State~~
~~grants a charter to eight men, later~~
~~known as the “Lords Proprietors,”~~
~~North Carolina ratified Constitution November 21, 1789~~459 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 327-331; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 23, pp. 2321-2326. Congressional Research Service 56 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
to create the Carolina colony.460 In to create the Carolina colony.460 In
the early 18th century, the colony splits into North and South Carolina.461 the early 18th century, the colony splits into North and South Carolina.461
• • July 25, 1729: Seven of the Lords Proprietors sell North Carolina to King Seven of the Lords Proprietors sell North Carolina to King
George II.462 George II.462
• • July 4, 1776: North Carolina joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence North Carolina joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence
from Great Britain.463 from Great Britain.463
• • July 21, 1778: North Carolina signs and ratifies the Articles of Confederation.464 North Carolina signs and ratifies the Articles of Confederation.464
• • May 14-September 17, 1787: Five delegates from North Carolina participate in Five delegates from North Carolina participate in
the Constitutional Convention.465 the Constitutional Convention.465
• • August 2, 1788: North Carolina’s ratification convention votes 184-83 to North Carolina’s ratification convention votes 184-83 to
demand amendments to the Constitution, including a declaration of rights.466 demand amendments to the Constitution, including a declaration of rights.466
• • November 21, 1789: At a second convention, North Carolina delegates vote 194- At a second convention, North Carolina delegates vote 194-
77 to ratify the Constitution and join the new government as the 12th state.467 77 to ratify the Constitution and join the new government as the 12th state.467
North Dakota
• • April 30, 1803: The United The United
States acquires part of the States acquires part of the
North Dakota: 39th State
land that will become North land that will become North
Dakota Territory created March 2, 1861 (12 Stat. 239) Dakota Territory created March 2, 1861 (12 Stat. 239)
Dakota from France in the Dakota from France in the
Enabling and statehood law enacted February 22, 1889 (25 Stat. 676) Enabling and statehood law enacted February 22, 1889 (25 Stat. 676)
Louisiana Purchase, with Louisiana Purchase, with
North Dakota admitted November 2, 1889 (26 Stat. 1548) North Dakota admitted November 2, 1889 (26 Stat. 1548)
additional territory acquired additional territory acquired
in 1818 from Great Britain.468 in 1818 from Great Britain.468

~~459 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 327-331; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 23, pp. 2321-~~
~~2326.~~
• February 14, 1861: Senator James S. Green of Missouri reports 36 S. 562, a bill to create the Territory of Dakota, from the Senate Committee on Territories.469 • February 26, 1861: Senate passes an amended version of 36 S. 562 without a recorded vote.470 • March 1, 1861: House passes 36 S. 562 without a recorded vote.471 460 “Charter of Carolina,” in Thorpe, 460 “Charter of Carolina,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 5, pp. 2743-2753. , vol. 5, pp. 2743-2753.
461 Chad Morgan, “The State of North Carolina,” in Shearer, 461 Chad Morgan, “The State of North Carolina,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 898-920. , vol. 2, pp. 898-920.
462 “Grant From King George the Second, to John Lord Carteret, Afterwards Earl Granville,” in 462 “Grant From King George the Second, to John Lord Carteret, Afterwards Earl Granville,” in The Revised Statutes of
the State of North Carolina, vol. 2, eds. Frederick Nash, James Iredell, and William H. Battle (Raleigh, NC: Turner and , vol. 2, eds. Frederick Nash, James Iredell, and William H. Battle (Raleigh, NC: Turner and
Hughes, 1837), pp. 15-30. Hughes, 1837), pp. 15-30.
463 463 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. , vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.
464 464 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 21, 1778), p. 709. , vol. 11 (July 21, 1778), p. 709.
465 Farrand, 465 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 559. , vol. 3, p. 559.
466 Elliot, 466 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 331-332; , vol. 1, pp. 331-332; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 30, pp. 463-, vol. 30, pp. 463-
471. 471.
467 Elliot, 467 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, p. 333; , vol. 1, p. 333; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 31, pp. 762-773. , vol. 31, pp. 762-773.
468 David B. Danbom, “The State of North Dakota,” in Shearer, 468 David B. Danbom, “The State of North Dakota,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 921-940. , vol. 2, pp. 921-940.
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57

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• February 14, 1861: Senator James S. Green of Missouri reports 36 S. 562, a bill~~
~~to create the Territory of Dakota, from the Senate Committee on Territories.469~~
~~• February 26, 1861: Senate passes an amended version of 36 S. 562 without a~~
~~recorded vote.470~~
~~• March 1, 1861: House passes 36 S. 562 without a recorded vote.471~~
469 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 14, 1861), p. 228; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 14, 1861), p. 897. 470 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 316-317; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 1207-1208. 471 House Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1861), p. 452; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1861), pp. 1334-1335. Congressional Research Service 57 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • March 2, 1861: President James Buchanan signs 36 S. 562, creating the Territory President James Buchanan signs 36 S. 562, creating the Territory
of Dakota.472 of Dakota.472
• • November 8, 1887: Dakota Territory voters endorse splitting the territory into Dakota Territory voters endorse splitting the territory into
northern and southern entities, with 37,784 voting in favor of division and 32,913 northern and southern entities, with 37,784 voting in favor of division and 32,913
voting against division.473 voting against division.473
• • December 12, 1887: Senator Charles F. Manderson of Nebraska introduces 50 S. Senator Charles F. Manderson of Nebraska introduces 50 S.
185, a bill to admit the southern Dakota Territory as the State of Dakota and 185, a bill to admit the southern Dakota Territory as the State of Dakota and
create a new Territory of Lincoln in northern Dakota Territory.474 create a new Territory of Lincoln in northern Dakota Territory.474
• • April 19, 1888: Senate votes 26-23 to pass an amended version of 50 S. 185 that Senate votes 26-23 to pass an amended version of 50 S. 185 that
would create a State of South Dakota and a new Territory of North Dakota.475 would create a State of South Dakota and a new Territory of North Dakota.475
• • January 18, 1889: House votes 145-98 to pass an amended version of 50 S. 185. House votes 145-98 to pass an amended version of 50 S. 185.
This new version would clear the way to admit Montana, New Mexico, This new version would clear the way to admit Montana, New Mexico,
Washington, and—depending on the results of a referendum on division—either Washington, and—depending on the results of a referendum on division—either
a combined state of Dakota or separate states of North Dakota and South a combined state of Dakota or separate states of North Dakota and South
Dakota.476 Dakota.476
• • February 20, 1889: House and Senate agree to a compromise version of 50 S. House and Senate agree to a compromise version of 50 S.
185 that allows the creation and admission of four new states: Montana, North 185 that allows the creation and admission of four new states: Montana, North
Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington. Both chambers pass the bill without Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington. Both chambers pass the bill without
recorded votes.477 recorded votes.477
• • February 22, 1889: President Grover Cleveland signs 50 S. 185, enabling President Grover Cleveland signs 50 S. 185, enabling
statehood for Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington.478 statehood for Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington.478

~~469 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 14, 1861), p. 228; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(February 14, 1861), p. 897.~~
~~470 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 316-317; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(February 26, 1861), pp. 1207-1208.~~
~~471 House Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1861), p. 452; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1,~~
~~1861), pp. 1334-1335.~~
• July 4, 1889: Delegates gather in Bismarck to write a state constitution for North Dakota.479 • August 17, 1889: Delegates to the Bismarck convention vote 40-23 to adopt a state constitution for North Dakota.480 • October 1, 1889: North Dakota voters ratify the state constitution, 27,441 to 8,107.481 472 12 Stat. 239. 472 12 Stat. 239.
473 Louis K. Church, “A Proclamation. By the Governor of the Territory of Dakota” (January 12, 1888) in 473 Louis K. Church, “A Proclamation. By the Governor of the Territory of Dakota” (January 12, 1888) in Bismarck
Weekly Tribune, January 20, 1888, p. 6. , January 20, 1888, p. 6.
474 474 Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 1st sess. (December 12, 1887), p. 33; , 50th Cong., 1st sess. (December 12, 1887), p. 33; Congressional Record, vol. 19, part 1 (December , vol. 19, part 1 (December
12, 1887), p. 22. 12, 1887), p. 22.
475 475 Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 1st sess. (April 19, 1888), pp. 695-696; , 50th Cong., 1st sess. (April 19, 1888), pp. 695-696; Congressional Record, vol. 19, part 4 (April 19, , vol. 19, part 4 (April 19,
1888), pp. 3139-3140. 1888), pp. 3139-3140.
476 476 House Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1889), pp. 290-298; , 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1889), pp. 290-298; Congressional Record, vol. 20, part 1 , vol. 20, part 1
(January 18, 1889), pp. 951-952. (January 18, 1889), pp. 951-952.
477 477 House Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 20, 1889), pp. 561-570; , 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 20, 1889), pp. 561-570; Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. , 50th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 20, 1889), pp. 357-366; (February 20, 1889), pp. 357-366; Congressional Record, vol. 20, part 3 (February 20, 1889), pp. 2104 and 2116. , vol. 20, part 3 (February 20, 1889), pp. 2104 and 2116.
478 25 Stat. 676. 478 25 Stat. 676.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• July 4, 1889: Delegates gather in Bismarck to write a state constitution for North~~
~~Dakota.479~~
~~• August 17, 1889: Delegates to the Bismarck convention vote 40-23 to adopt a~~
~~state constitution for North Dakota.480~~
~~• October 1, 1889: North Dakota voters ratify the state constitution, 27,441 to~~
~~8,107.481~~479 Journal of the Constitutional Convention for North Dakota, Held at Bismarck, Thursday, July 4 to Aug. 17, 1889, Together With the Enabling Act of Congress and the Proceedings of the Joint Commission Appointed for the Equitable Division of Territorial Property (Bismarck, ND: Tribune, 1889), p. 1. 480 Journal of the Constitutional Convention for North Dakota, pp. 399-400. 481 Laws Passed at the First Session of the Legislative Assembly of the State of North Dakota (Bismarck, ND: Tribune, 1890), p. 15. Congressional Research Service 58 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • November 2, 1889: President Benjamin Harrison issues a proclamation President Benjamin Harrison issues a proclamation
admitting North Dakota.482 admitting North Dakota.482
Ohio
• • September 3, 1783: The United The United
States acquires the land that will States acquires the land that will
Ohio: 17th State
become Ohio from Great Britain become Ohio from Great Britain
in the Treaty of Paris.in the Treaty of Paris.
Northwest Territory created July 13, 1787 (1 Stat. 50) Northwest Territory created July 13, 1787 (1 Stat. 50)
483 483
Enabling law enacted April 30, 1802 (2 Stat. 173) Enabling law enacted April 30, 1802 (2 Stat. 173)
• • July 13, 1787: Congress, Congress,
Ohio admitted March 1, 1803 (67 Stat. 407) Ohio admitted March 1, 1803 (67 Stat. 407)
operating under the Articles of operating under the Articles of
Confederation, passes the Confederation, passes the
Northwest Ordinance, establishing the Territory of the United States North West Northwest Ordinance, establishing the Territory of the United States North West
of the River Ohio (often shortened to “the Northwest Territory”).484 of the River Ohio (often shortened to “the Northwest Territory”).484
• • July 21, 1789: With the Constitution in effect, the House passes a bill, without a With the Constitution in effect, the House passes a bill, without a
recorded vote, to keep the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 in effect.485 recorded vote, to keep the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 in effect.485
• • August 4, 1789: The Senate amends and passes the Northwest Ordinance bill The Senate amends and passes the Northwest Ordinance bill
without a recorded vote.486 without a recorded vote.486
• • August 5, 1789: House agrees to the Senate’s amendments on the Northwest House agrees to the Senate’s amendments on the Northwest
Ordinance bill without a recorded vote.487 Ordinance bill without a recorded vote.487
• • August 7, 1789: President George Washington signs the act to keep the President George Washington signs the act to keep the
Northwest Ordinance of 1787 in effect.488 Northwest Ordinance of 1787 in effect.488

~~479~~ ~~Journal of the Constitutional Convention for North Dakota, Held at Bismarck, Thursday, July 4 to Aug. 17, 1889,~~
~~Together With the Enabling Act of Congress and the Proceedings of the Joint Commission Appointed for the Equitable~~
~~Division of Territorial Property~~ ~~(Bismarck, ND: Tribune, 1889), p. 1.~~
~~480 Journal of the Constitutional Convention for North Dakota, pp. 399-400.~~
~~481 Laws Passed at the First Session of the Legislative Assembly of the State of North Dakota (Bismarck, ND: Tribune,~~
~~1890), p. 15.~~
• April 2, 1802: Representative William B. Giles of Virginia introduces a bill enabling residents in the eastern part of the Northwest Territory to write a constitution and form a state government.489 • April 9, 1802: House passes the Northwest Territory enabling bill on a 47-29 vote.490 • April 28, 1802: Senate passes an amended version of the Northwest Territory enabling bill on a 16-6 vote.491 482 26 Stat. 1548. 482 26 Stat. 1548.
483 Michael Mangus and Susan Mangus, “The State of Ohio,” in Shearer, 483 Michael Mangus and Susan Mangus, “The State of Ohio,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 941-966. , vol. 2, pp. 941-966.
484 484 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 32 (July 13, 1787), pp. 334-343. For more information, see Peter S. , vol. 32 (July 13, 1787), pp. 334-343. For more information, see Peter S.
Onuf, Onuf, Statehood and Union: A History of the Northwest Ordinance (Bloomington, IN: Indiana University Press, 1987). (Bloomington, IN: Indiana University Press, 1987).
485 485 House Journal, 1st Cong., 1st sess. (July 21, 1789), p. 63; , 1st Cong., 1st sess. (July 21, 1789), p. 63; Annals of Congress, vol. 1, 1st Cong., 1st sess. (July 21, , vol. 1, 1st Cong., 1st sess. (July 21,
1789), p. 685. 1789), p. 685.
486 486 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 1st sess. (August 4, 1789), p. 52; , 1st Cong., 1st sess. (August 4, 1789), p. 52; Annals of Congress, vol. 1, 1st Cong., 1st sess. (August 4, , vol. 1, 1st Cong., 1st sess. (August 4,
1789), p. 57. 1789), p. 57.
487 487 House Journal, 1st Cong., 1st sess. (August 5, 1789), pp. 71-72; , 1st Cong., 1st sess. (August 5, 1789), pp. 71-72; Annals of Congress, vol. 1, 1st Cong., 1st sess. , vol. 1, 1st Cong., 1st sess.
(August 5, 1789), p. 702. (August 5, 1789), p. 702.
488 1 Stat. 50. 488 1 Stat. 50.
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• April 2, 1802: Representative William B. Giles of Virginia introduces a bill~~
~~enabling residents in the eastern part of the Northwest Territory to write a~~
~~constitution and form a state government.489~~
~~• April 9, 1802: House passes the Northwest Territory enabling bill on a 47-29~~
~~vote.490~~
~~• April 28, 1802: Senate passes an amended version of the Northwest Territory~~
~~enabling bill on a 16-6 vote.491~~489 House Journal, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 2, 1802), p. 174; Annals of Congress, vol. 11, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 2, 1802), p. 1128. 490 House Journal, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 9, 1802), pp. 188-189; Annals of Congress, vol. 11, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 9, 1802), pp. 1161-1162. 491 Senate Journal, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 28, 1802), pp. 225-226; Annals of Congress, vol. 11, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 28, 1802), pp. 296-297. Congressional Research Service 59 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • April 29, 1802: House passes the Senate-amended version of the Northwest House passes the Senate-amended version of the Northwest
Territory enabling bill without a recorded vote.492 Territory enabling bill without a recorded vote.492
• • April 30, 1802: President Thomas Jefferson signs the act, enabling residents in President Thomas Jefferson signs the act, enabling residents in
the eastern part of the Northwest Territory to write a constitution and form a state the eastern part of the Northwest Territory to write a constitution and form a state
government.493 government.493
• • November 1, 1802: Delegates gather in Chillicothe to write a state Delegates gather in Chillicothe to write a state
constitution.494 constitution.494
• • November 29, 1802: Delegates at the Chillicothe convention approve a state Delegates at the Chillicothe convention approve a state
constitution for Ohio.495 constitution for Ohio.495
• • February 19, 1803: President Jefferson signs an act to enforce federal law in the President Jefferson signs an act to enforce federal law in the
new state of Ohio. However, it does not explicitly enact Ohio’s admission as a new state of Ohio. However, it does not explicitly enact Ohio’s admission as a
state.496 state.496
• • March 1, 1803: Ohio marks its admission as the 17th state.497 This statehood date Ohio marks its admission as the 17th state.497 This statehood date
is retroactively established 150 years later by P.L. 83-204.498 is retroactively established 150 years later by P.L. 83-204.498
• • January 13, 1953: Representative George H. Bender of Ohio introduces 83 Representative George H. Bender of Ohio introduces 83
H.J.Res 121, resolving that “the State of Ohio, shall be one, and is hereby H.J.Res 121, resolving that “the State of Ohio, shall be one, and is hereby
declared to be one, of the United States of America, and is admitted into the declared to be one, of the United States of America, and is admitted into the
Union on an equal footing with the original States, in all respects whatever”—Union on an equal footing with the original States, in all respects whatever”—
with an effective date of March 1, 1803.499 with an effective date of March 1, 1803.499

~~489 House Journal, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 2, 1802), p. 174; Annals of Congress, vol. 11, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 2,~~
~~1802), p. 1128.~~
~~490 House Journal, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 9, 1802), pp. 188-189; Annals of Congress, vol. 11, 7th Cong., 1st sess.~~
~~(April 9, 1802), pp. 1161-1162.~~
~~491 Senate Journal, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 28, 1802), pp. 225-226; Annals of Congress, vol. 11, 7th Cong., 1st sess.~~
~~(April 28, 1802), pp. 296-297.~~
• May 19, 1953: House adopts 83 H.J.Res. 121 without a recorded vote.500 • August 1, 1953: Senate adopts 83 H.J.Res. 121 without a recorded vote.501 • August 7, 1953: President Dwight Eisenhower signs 83 H.J.Res. 121 into law.502 492 492 House Journal, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 29, 1802), p. 226; , 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April 29, 1802), p. 226; Annals of Congress, vol. 11, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April , vol. 11, 7th Cong., 1st sess. (April
29, 1802), p. 1252. 29, 1802), p. 1252.
493 2 Stat. 173. 493 2 Stat. 173.
494 494 Journal of the Convention of the Territory of the United States North-west of the Ohio, Begun and Held at
Chillicothe, on Monday the First Day of November, A.D. One Thousand Eight Hundred and Two, and of the
Independence of the United States the Twenty-Seventh (Chillicothe, OH: N. Willis, 1802), p. 3. (Chillicothe, OH: N. Willis, 1802), p. 3.
495 495 Journal of the Convention of the Territory of the United States North-west of the Ohio, p. 45. , p. 45.
496 2 Stat. 201. For discussion, see Allan Walker Vestal, “Were the Tax Protesters Right About Ohio Statehood?,” 496 2 Stat. 201. For discussion, see Allan Walker Vestal, “Were the Tax Protesters Right About Ohio Statehood?,”
University of Pittsburgh Law Review, vol. 83, no. 4 (Summer 2022), pp. 731-778. , vol. 83, no. 4 (Summer 2022), pp. 731-778.
497 “The date of March 1, 1803 was when the Ohio legislature met for the first time,” according to National Archives 497 “The date of March 1, 1803 was when the Ohio legislature met for the first time,” according to National Archives
and Records Administration (NARA), Center for Legislative Archives, and Records Administration (NARA), Center for Legislative Archives, 200th Anniversary of Ohio Statehood, at , at
https://www.archives.gov/legislative/features/ohio-statehood. https://www.archives.gov/legislative/features/ohio-statehood.
498 67 Stat. 407. 498 67 Stat. 407.
499 499 House Journal, 83rd Cong., 1st sess. (January 13, 1953), p. 102; , 83rd Cong., 1st sess. (January 13, 1953), p. 102; Congressional Record, vol. 99, part 1 (January 13, , vol. 99, part 1 (January 13,
~~(continued...)~~
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~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• May 19, 1953: House adopts 83 H.J.Res. 121 without a recorded vote.500~~
~~• August 1, 1953: Senate adopts 83 H.J.Res. 121 without a recorded vote.501~~
~~• August 7, 1953: President Dwight Eisenhower signs 83 H.J.Res. 121 into law.502~~
~~Oklahoma~~
~~• April 30, 1803: The United States acquires territory from France that includes a~~
~~portion of the land that will become the state of Oklahoma through the Louisiana~~
~~Purchase.503~~
~~• 1820s: The U.S. government~~
~~sets aside land in the current~~
~~Oklahoma: 46th State~~
~~states of Oklahoma, Kansas,~~
~~and Nebraska to form an~~
~~Oklahoma Territory created May 2, 1890 (26 Stat. 81)~~
~~“Indian Country” (or “Indian~~
~~Enabling and admission law enacted June 16, 1906 (34 Stat. 267)~~
~~Territory”). Many American~~
~~Oklahoma admitted November 16, 1907 (35 Stat. 2160)~~
1953), p. 380. The intention was “to end confusion as to the exact date on which Ohio entered the Union,” according to U.S. Congress, House Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, Admitting the State of Ohio into the Union, report to accompany H.J.Res. 121, 83rd Cong., 1st sess., H.Rept. 83-343, May 5, 1953, p. 1. 500 House Journal, 83rd Cong., 1st sess. (May 19, 1953), p. 367; Congressional Record, vol. 99, part 4 (May 19, 1953), pp. 5119-5120. 501 Senate Journal, 83rd Cong., 1st sess. (August 1, 1953), p. 570; Congressional Record, vol. 99, part 8 (August 1, 1953), pp. 10799-10800. 502 67 Stat. 407. Congressional Research Service 60 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Oklahoma • April 30, 1803: The United States acquires territory from Oklahoma: 46th State France that includes a portion of the land that will become Oklahoma Territory created May 2, 1890 (26 Stat. 81) the state of Oklahoma through Enabling and admission law enacted June 16, 1906 (34 Stat. 267) the Louisiana Purchase.503 Oklahoma admitted November 16, 1907 (35 Stat. 2160) • 1820s: The U.S. government sets aside land in the current states of Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska to form an “Indian Country” (or “Indian Territory”). Many American Indians are relocated to this Indians are relocated to this
territory through various actions, including the Indian Removal Act, passed by territory through various actions, including the Indian Removal Act, passed by
Congress in 1830 (4 Stat. 411).504 Congress in 1830 (4 Stat. 411).504
• • December 29, 1845: Through the annexation of Texas, the United States obtains Through the annexation of Texas, the United States obtains
additional lands, known as the Oklahoma Panhandle, that will later comprise the additional lands, known as the Oklahoma Panhandle, that will later comprise the
seventh county of the Oklahoma Territory.505 seventh county of the Oklahoma Territory.505
• • February 2, 1848: Representatives of the United States and Mexico sign the Representatives of the United States and Mexico sign the
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, through which Mexico officially recognizes the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, through which Mexico officially recognizes the
annexation of Texas that occurred nearly three years prior.506 annexation of Texas that occurred nearly three years prior.506
• • December 9, 1889: Senator Orville Platt of Connecticut introduces 51 S. 895, a Senator Orville Platt of Connecticut introduces 51 S. 895, a
bill to create the Oklahoma Territory.507 bill to create the Oklahoma Territory.507

~~1953), p. 380. The intention was “to end confusion as to the exact date on which Ohio entered the Union,” according to~~
~~U.S. Congress, House Committee on Interior and Insular Affairs, Admitting the State of Ohio into the Union, report to~~
~~accompany H.J.Res. 121, 83rd Cong., 1st sess., H.Rept. 83-343, May 5, 1953, p. 1.~~
~~500 House Journal, 83rd Cong., 1st sess. (May 19, 1953), p. 367; Congressional Record, vol. 99, part 4 (May 19, 1953),~~
~~pp. 5119-5120.~~
~~501 Senate Journal, 83rd Cong., 1st sess. (August 1, 1953), p. 570; Congressional Record, vol. 99, part 8 (August 1,~~
~~1953), pp. 10799-10800.~~
~~502 67 Stat. 407.~~
• February 13, 1890: Senate amends and passes 51 S. 895 without a recorded vote.508 • April 21, 1890: House passes, without a recorded vote, a compromise version of the Oklahoma Organic Act (51 S. 895) to form the Territory of Oklahoma from the western portion of the Indian Territory.509 • April 23, 1890: Senate agrees to the conference report on 51 S. 895 by a vote of 50-5.510 503 Kerry Wynn, “The State of Oklahoma,” in Shearer, 503 Kerry Wynn, “The State of Oklahoma,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 3, p. 968; 8 Stat. 200. , vol. 3, p. 968; 8 Stat. 200.
504 Wynn, “The State of Oklahoma,” p. 971. 504 Wynn, “The State of Oklahoma,” p. 971.
505 Wynn, “The State of Oklahoma,” p. 968; “The Annexation of Texas, the Mexican-American War, and the Treaty of 505 Wynn, “The State of Oklahoma,” p. 968; “The Annexation of Texas, the Mexican-American War, and the Treaty of
Guadalupe-Hidalgo, 1845-1848,” in U.S. State Department, Office of the Historian, Guadalupe-Hidalgo, 1845-1848,” in U.S. State Department, Office of the Historian, Milestones in the History of U.S.
Foreign Relations, at https://history.state.gov/milestones/1830-1860/texas-annexation. , at https://history.state.gov/milestones/1830-1860/texas-annexation.
506 9 Stat. 922; David Pletcher, “Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo,” in Texas State Historical Association, 506 9 Stat. 922; David Pletcher, “Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo,” in Texas State Historical Association, Handbook of
Texas, at https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/treaty-of-guadalupe-hidalgo; Judith Morgan, “A Bibliographic , at https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/treaty-of-guadalupe-hidalgo; Judith Morgan, “A Bibliographic
Essay on Prestatehood Legal Research for the State of Oklahoma,” in Chiorazzi and Most, Essay on Prestatehood Legal Research for the State of Oklahoma,” in Chiorazzi and Most, Prestatehood Legal
Materials, vol. 2, pp. 897-956. , vol. 2, pp. 897-956.
507 507 Senate Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (December 9, 1889), p. 31; , 51st Cong., 1st sess. (December 9, 1889), p. 31; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 1 (December 9, , vol. 21, part 1 (December 9,
1889), p. 123. 1889), p. 123.
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~~• February 13, 1890: Senate amends and passes 51 S. 895 without a recorded~~
~~vote.508~~
~~• April 21, 1890: House passes, without a recorded vote, a compromise version of~~
~~the Oklahoma Organic Act (51 S. 895) to form the Territory of Oklahoma from~~
~~the western portion of the Indian Territory.509~~
~~• April 23, 1890: Senate agrees to the conference report on 51 S. 895 by a vote of~~
~~50-5.510~~
508 Senate Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (February 13, 1890), p. 118; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 2 (February 13, 1890), p. 1279. 509 House Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (April 21, 1890), p. 503; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 4 (April 21, 1890), p. 3628; Wynn, “The State of Oklahoma,” p. 970. 510 Senate Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (April 23, 1890), p. 256; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 4 (April 23, 1890), pp. 3708-3721. Congressional Research Service 61 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • May 2, 1890: President Benjamin Harrison signs the Oklahoma Organic Act into President Benjamin Harrison signs the Oklahoma Organic Act into
law, formally creating the Territory of Oklahoma.511 law, formally creating the Territory of Oklahoma.511
• • November 7, 1905: The people of the remaining Indian Territory vote to approve The people of the remaining Indian Territory vote to approve
a constitution written by delegates to create the state of Sequoyah—separate from a constitution written by delegates to create the state of Sequoyah—separate from
the newly formed Oklahoma Territory—by a vote of 56,279 to 9,073.512 the newly formed Oklahoma Territory—by a vote of 56,279 to 9,073.512
• • December 1905-January 1906: Bills are introduced in the House (59 H.R. 79) Bills are introduced in the House (59 H.R. 79)
and the Senate (59 S. 3680) “to provide for the admission of the State of and the Senate (59 S. 3680) “to provide for the admission of the State of
Sequoyah into the Union,” but both bills are tabled.513 Sequoyah into the Union,” but both bills are tabled.513
• • January 22, 1906: Representative Edward Hamilton of Michigan introduces a Representative Edward Hamilton of Michigan introduces a
bill (59 H.R. 12707) enabling the people of Oklahoma and the Indian Territory to bill (59 H.R. 12707) enabling the people of Oklahoma and the Indian Territory to
form a constitution and state government and be admitted into the Union as one form a constitution and state government and be admitted into the Union as one
state.514 state.514
• • June 13, 1906: Senate passes a compromise version of 59 H.R. 12707 without a Senate passes a compromise version of 59 H.R. 12707 without a
recorded vote.515 recorded vote.515
• • June 14, 1906: House passes the compromise version of 59 H.R. 12707 without House passes the compromise version of 59 H.R. 12707 without
a recorded vote.516 a recorded vote.516
• • June 16, 1906: President Theodore Roosevelt signs the enabling bill.517 President Theodore Roosevelt signs the enabling bill.517

~~508 Senate Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (February 13, 1890), p. 118; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 2 (February 13,~~
~~1890), p. 1279.~~
~~509 House Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (April 21, 1890), p. 503; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 4 (April 21, 1890),~~
~~p. 3628; Wynn, “The State of Oklahoma,” p. 970.~~
~~510 Senate Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (April 23, 1890), p. 256; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 4 (April 23, 1890),~~
~~pp. 3708-3721.~~
• November 20, 1906-September 16, 1907: Elected delegates from the Oklahoma and Indian Territories convene the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention to draft a state constitution.518 • July 16, 1907: Eighty-six delegates to the convention sign an amended version of the Oklahoma state constitution.519 • September 17, 1907: The people of the Oklahoma and Indian Territories vote in favor of ratifying the state constitution, by a vote of 180,333 to 73,059.520 • November 16, 1907: President Roosevelt issues Presidential Proclamation 780, admitting Oklahoma as the 46th state.521 511 26 Stat. 81. 511 26 Stat. 81.
512 Morgan, “Prestatehood Legal Research,” pp. 926-927; Richard Mize, “Sequoyah Convention,” in 512 Morgan, “Prestatehood Legal Research,” pp. 926-927; Richard Mize, “Sequoyah Convention,” in The Encyclopedia
of Oklahoma History and Culture, at https://www.okhistory.org/publications/enc/entry.php?entry=SE021; “Memorial , at https://www.okhistory.org/publications/enc/entry.php?entry=SE021; “Memorial
from citizens of Indian Territory, praying for admission into Union as State of Sequoyah,” S. Doc. 59-143, January 16, from citizens of Indian Territory, praying for admission into Union as State of Sequoyah,” S. Doc. 59-143, January 16,
1906, p. 26. 1906, p. 26.
513 Morgan, “Prestatehood Legal Research,” p. 927; 513 Morgan, “Prestatehood Legal Research,” p. 927; Congressional Record, vol. 40, part 1 (December 4, 1905), p. 47 , vol. 40, part 1 (December 4, 1905), p. 47
and vol. 40, part 2 (January 25, 1906), p. 1527. and vol. 40, part 2 (January 25, 1906), p. 1527.
514 514 House Journal, 59th Cong., 1st sess. (January 22, 1906), p. 314; , 59th Cong., 1st sess. (January 22, 1906), p. 314; Congressional Record, vol. 40, part 2 (January 22, , vol. 40, part 2 (January 22,
1906), p. 1407. 1906), p. 1407.
515 515 Senate Journal, 59th Cong., 1st sess. (June 13, 1906), p. 606; , 59th Cong., 1st sess. (June 13, 1906), p. 606; Congressional Record, vol. 40, part 9 (June 13, 1906), , vol. 40, part 9 (June 13, 1906),
p. 8403. p. 8403.
516 516 House Journal, 59th Cong., 1st sess. (June 14, 1906), p. 1178; , 59th Cong., 1st sess. (June 14, 1906), p. 1178; Congressional Record, vol. 40, part 9 (June 14, 1906), , vol. 40, part 9 (June 14, 1906),
p. 8529. p. 8529.
517 34 Stat. 267. 517 34 Stat. 267.
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~~• November 20, 1906-September 16, 1907: Elected delegates from the Oklahoma~~
~~and Indian Territories convene the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention to draft~~
~~a state constitution.518~~
~~• July 16, 1907: Eighty-six delegates to the convention sign an amended version~~
~~of the Oklahoma state constitution.519~~
~~• September 17, 1907: The people of the Oklahoma and Indian Territories vote in~~
~~favor of ratifying the state constitution, by a vote of 180,333 to 73,059.520~~
~~• November 16, 1907: President Roosevelt issues Presidential Proclamation 780,~~
~~admitting Oklahoma as the 46th state.521~~
518 Proceedings of the Constitutional Convention of the proposed state of Oklahoma: held at Guthrie, Oklahoma, November 20, 1906 to November 16, 1907 (Muskogee, OK.: Muskogee Ptg Co., 1907), pp. 5 and 467. 519 Albert H. Ellis, A History of the Constitutional Convention of the State of Oklahoma (Muskogee: Economy Printing Co., 1923), pp. 113-114. 520 Ellis, History of the Constitutional Convention, p. 127; Morgan, “Prestatehood Legal Research,” p. 939. 521 “Presidential Proclamation 780 of November 16, 1907,” by President Theodore Roosevelt, declaring the state of (continued...) Congressional Research Service 62 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Oregon
• • October 20, 1818: U.S. envoys U.S. envoys
Albert Gallatin and Richard Rush Albert Gallatin and Richard Rush
Oregon: 33rd State
sign a convention with Great sign a convention with Great
Oregon Territory created August 14, 1848 (9 Stat. 323) Oregon Territory created August 14, 1848 (9 Stat. 323)
Britain agreeing to jointly occupy Britain agreeing to jointly occupy
Oregon admitted February 14, 1859 (11 Stat. 383) Oregon admitted February 14, 1859 (11 Stat. 383)
the Oregon Territory.522 the Oregon Territory.522
• • June 15, 1846: Secretary of State James Buchanan signs the Oregon Treaty with Secretary of State James Buchanan signs the Oregon Treaty with
Great Britain, allowing the United States to acquire all land in the Oregon Great Britain, allowing the United States to acquire all land in the Oregon
Territory south of the 49th parallel.523 Territory south of the 49th parallel.523
• • February 9, 1848: Representative Caleb B. Smith of Indiana reports 30 H.R. Representative Caleb B. Smith of Indiana reports 30 H.R.
201, a bill to create a territorial government in Oregon, from the House 201, a bill to create a territorial government in Oregon, from the House
Committee on Territories.524 Committee on Territories.524
• • August 2, 1848: House passes an amended version of the Oregon Territory Act House passes an amended version of the Oregon Territory Act
(30 H.R. 201).525 (30 H.R. 201).525
• • August 12, 1848: Senate agrees to the House version of the Oregon Territory Senate agrees to the House version of the Oregon Territory
Act, voting 31-23 and 29-25 after the question was divided.526 Act, voting 31-23 and 29-25 after the question was divided.526

~~518~~ ~~Proceedings of the Constitutional Convention of the proposed state of Oklahoma: held at Guthrie, Oklahoma,~~
~~November 20, 1906 to November 16, 1907~~ ~~(Muskogee, OK.: Muskogee Ptg Co., 1907), pp. 5 and 467.~~
~~519 Albert H. Ellis, A History of the Constitutional Convention of the State of Oklahoma (Muskogee: Economy Printing~~
~~Co., 1923), pp. 113-114.~~
~~520 Ellis, History of the Constitutional Convention, p. 127; Morgan, “Prestatehood Legal Research,” p. 939.~~
~~521 “Presidential Proclamation 780 of November 16, 1907,” by President Theodore Roosevelt, declaring the state of~~
• August 14, 1848: President James Polk signs the Oregon Territory Act, creating the Oregon territory.527 • June 1857: The eligible voters of the Oregon Territory support statehood in a referendum by a vote of 7,617 to 1,679.528 • August 17-September 18, 1857: Elected territorial delegates convene at the courthouse in Salem to draft a state constitution.529 • September 18, 1857: The convention delegates approve the draft constitution by a vote of 35-10.530 • November 9, 1857: The Oregon Territory’s electorate approves the state constitution by a vote of 7,195 to 3,215.531 Oklahoma’s admission to the Union, NARA, Record Group 11, Presidential Proclamations, at Oklahoma’s admission to the Union, NARA, Record Group 11, Presidential Proclamations, at
https://catalog.archives.gov/id/299964; 35 Stat. 2160. https://catalog.archives.gov/id/299964; 35 Stat. 2160.
522 8 Stat. 248. 522 8 Stat. 248.
523 9 Stat. 869; William L. Lang, “Oregon Treaty, 1846,” in Oregon Historical Society, 523 9 Stat. 869; William L. Lang, “Oregon Treaty, 1846,” in Oregon Historical Society, Oregon Encyclopedia, at , at
https://www.oregonencyclopedia.org/articles/oregon-treaty. https://www.oregonencyclopedia.org/articles/oregon-treaty.
524 524 House Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (February 9, 1848), p. 382; , 30th Cong., 1st sess. (February 9, 1848), p. 382; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (February , 30th Cong., 1st sess. (February
9, 1848), p. 322. 9, 1848), p. 322.
525 The 525 The House Journal reported the vote as 128-71, while the reported the vote as 128-71, while the Congressional Globe reported it as 129-71. See reported it as 129-71. See House
Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (August 2, 1848), p. 1155, and , 30th Cong., 1st sess. (August 2, 1848), p. 1155, and Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (August 2, , 30th Cong., 1st sess. (August 2,
1848), p. 1027. 1848), p. 1027.
526 526 Senate Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (August 12, 1848), pp. 589-590; , 30th Cong., 1st sess. (August 12, 1848), pp. 589-590; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 1st sess. , 30th Cong., 1st sess.
(August 12, 1848), p. 1078. (August 12, 1848), p. 1078.
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~~• August 14, 1848: President James Polk signs the Oregon Territory Act, creating~~
~~the Oregon territory.527~~
~~• June 1857: The eligible voters of the Oregon Territory support statehood in a~~
~~referendum by a vote of 7,617 to 1,679.528~~
~~• August 17-September 18, 1857: Elected territorial delegates convene at the~~
~~courthouse in Salem to draft a state constitution.529~~
~~• September 18, 1857: The convention delegates approve the draft constitution by~~
~~a vote of 35-10.530~~
~~• November 9, 1857: The Oregon Territory’s electorate approves the state~~
~~constitution by a vote of 7,195 to 3,215.531~~
527 9 Stat. 323. 528 Charles Henry Carey (ed.), The Oregon Constitution and Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention of 1857 (Salem, OR: Oregon Historical Society, 1926), pp. 21 and 26. 529 Carey, Oregon Constitution, p. 27. 530 Carey, Oregon Constitution, p. 397. 531 Carey, Oregon Constitution, p. 27. Congressional Research Service 63 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • • April 5, 1858: Senator Stephen Douglas of Illinois reports 35 S. 239, a bill to Senator Stephen Douglas of Illinois reports 35 S. 239, a bill to
admit Oregon into the Union, from the Senate Committee on Territories.532 admit Oregon into the Union, from the Senate Committee on Territories.532
• • May 18, 1858: Senate passes 35 S. 239 by a vote of 35-17.533 Senate passes 35 S. 239 by a vote of 35-17.533
• • February 12, 1859: House passes 35 S. 239 by a vote of 114-103.534 House passes 35 S. 239 by a vote of 114-103.534
• • February 14, 1859: President James Buchanan signs 35 S. 239, admitting President James Buchanan signs 35 S. 239, admitting
Oregon into the Union as the 33rd state.535 Oregon into the Union as the 33rd state.535
Pennsylvania
• • 1681: King Charles II grants a charter King Charles II grants a charter
to William Penn to create a colony in to William Penn to create a colony in
Pennsylvania: Second State
a portion of present-day a portion of present-day
Pennsylvania ratified Constitution December 12, 1787 Pennsylvania ratified Constitution December 12, 1787
Pennsylvania.536 Pennsylvania.536
• • July 4, 1776: Pennsylvania joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence Pennsylvania joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence
from Great Britain.537 from Great Britain.537
• • July 9, 1778: Pennsylvania’s delegates sign and ratify the Articles of Pennsylvania’s delegates sign and ratify the Articles of
Confederation.538 Confederation.538

~~527 9 Stat. 323.~~
~~528 Charles Henry Carey (ed.),~~ ~~The Oregon Constitution and Proceedings and Debates of the Constitutional Convention~~
~~of 1857~~ ~~(Salem, OR: Oregon Historical Society, 1926), pp. 21 and 26.~~
~~529 Carey, Oregon Constitution, p. 27.~~
~~530 Carey, Oregon Constitution, p. 397.~~
~~531 Carey, Oregon Constitution, p. 27.~~
• May 14-September 17, 1787: Pennsylvania’s eight delegates participate in the Constitutional Convention.539 • December 12, 1787: Pennsylvania convention ratifies the Constitution by a vote of 46-23.540 Rhode Island • July 15, 1663: King Charles II grants a charter to create the Colony of Rhode Island: 13th State Rhode Island and Providence Rhode Island ratified Constitution May 29, 1790 Plantations.541 • July 4, 1776: Rhode Island joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence from Great Britain.542 532 532 Senate Journal, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (April 5, 1858), pp. 318-319; , 35th Cong., 1st sess. (April 5, 1858), pp. 318-319; Congressional Globe, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (April , 35th Cong., 1st sess. (April
5, 1858), p. 1474. 5, 1858), p. 1474.
533 533 Senate Journal, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (May 18, 1858), p. 477; , 35th Cong., 1st sess. (May 18, 1858), p. 477; Congressional Globe, 35th Cong., 1st sess. (May 18, , 35th Cong., 1st sess. (May 18,
1858), p. 2209. 1858), p. 2209.
534 534 House Journal, 35th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 12, 1859), pp. 398-399; , 35th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 12, 1859), pp. 398-399; Congressional Globe, 35th Cong., 2nd sess. , 35th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 12, 1859), p. 1011. (February 12, 1859), p. 1011.
535 11 Stat. 383. 535 11 Stat. 383.
536 “Charter for the Province of Pennsylvania—1681,” in Thorpe, 536 “Charter for the Province of Pennsylvania—1681,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 5, pp. 3035-, vol. 5, pp. 3035-
3044. 3044.
537 537 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. , vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.
538 538 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677. , vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677.
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~~• May 14-September 17, 1787: Pennsylvania’s eight delegates participate in the~~
~~Constitutional Convention.539~~
~~• December 12, 1787: Pennsylvania convention ratifies the Constitution by a vote~~
~~of 46-23.540~~
~~Rhode Island~~
~~• July 15, 1663: King Charles II grants~~
~~a charter to create the Colony of~~
~~Rhode Island: 13th State~~
~~Rhode Island and Providence~~
~~Rhode Island ratified Constitution May 29, 1790~~
~~Plantations.541~~
~~• July 4, 1776: Rhode Island joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence~~
~~from Great Britain.542~~539 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, pp. 557-558. 540 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 319-320; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 2, pp. 590-591. 541 “Charter of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations—1663,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 6, pp. 3211-3222. 542 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. Congressional Research Service 64 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
• • July 9, 1778: Delegates of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations Delegates of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
sign and ratify the Articles of Confederation.543 sign and ratify the Articles of Confederation.543
• • May 14-September 17, 1787: Rhode Island does not send delegates to Rhode Island does not send delegates to
participate in the Constitutional Convention.544 participate in the Constitutional Convention.544
• • May 29, 1790: Rhode Island’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a vote of Rhode Island’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a vote of
34-32, after a number of failed attempts.545 34-32, after a number of failed attempts.545
South Carolina
• • March 24, 1663: King Charles II King Charles II
grants a charter to eight men, later grants a charter to eight men, later
South Carolina: Eighth State
known as the “Lords Proprietors,” to known as the “Lords Proprietors,” to
South Carolina ratified Constitution May 23, 1788 South Carolina ratified Constitution May 23, 1788
create the Carolina colony.546 In the create the Carolina colony.546 In the
early 18th century, the colony would split into North and South Carolina.547 early 18th century, the colony would split into North and South Carolina.547
• • July 25, 1729: Seven of the Lords Proprietors sell South Carolina to King Seven of the Lords Proprietors sell South Carolina to King
George II.548 George II.548

~~539 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, pp. 557-558.~~
~~540 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 319-320; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 2, pp. 590-~~
~~591.~~
~~541 “Charter of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations—1663,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 6,~~
~~pp. 3211-3222.~~
~~542 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.~~
• July 4, 1776: South Carolina joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence from Great Britain.549 • July 9, 1778: South Carolina signs and ratifies the Articles of Confederation.550 • May 14-September 17, 1787: Four of South Carolina’s five delegates participate in the Constitutional Convention.551 • May 23, 1788: South Carolina convention ratifies the Constitution by a vote of 149-73.552 South Dakota • April 30, 1803: The United States acquires part of the South Dakota: 40th State land that will become South Dakota Territory created March 2, 1861 (12 Stat. 239) Dakota from France in the Enabling and statehood law enacted February 22, 1889 (25 Stat. 676) Louisiana Purchase, with South Dakota admitted November 2, 1889 (26 Stat. 1549) 543 543 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677. , vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677.
544 Farrand, 544 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 557. , vol. 3, p. 557.
545 Elliot, 545 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 334-337; , vol. 1, pp. 334-337; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 26, p. 989. For , vol. 26, p. 989. For
details on the yearslong debate over ratification in Rhode Island, see University of Wisconsin-Madison, Center for the details on the yearslong debate over ratification in Rhode Island, see University of Wisconsin-Madison, Center for the
Study of the American Constitution, Study of the American Constitution, Rhode Island Ratification, at https://csac.history.wisc.edu/states-and-ratification/, at https://csac.history.wisc.edu/states-and-ratification/
rhode-island. rhode-island.
546 “Charter of Carolina,” in Thorpe, 546 “Charter of Carolina,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 5, pp. 2743-2753. , vol. 5, pp. 2743-2753.
547 Chad Morgan, “The State of North Carolina,” in Shearer, 547 Chad Morgan, “The State of North Carolina,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 2, pp. 898-920. , vol. 2, pp. 898-920.
548 “Grant From King George the Second, to John Lord Carteret, Afterwards Earl Granville,” in 548 “Grant From King George the Second, to John Lord Carteret, Afterwards Earl Granville,” in The Revised Statutes of
the State of North Carolina, vol. 2, eds. Frederick Nash, James Iredell, and William H. Battle (Raleigh, NC: Turner and , vol. 2, eds. Frederick Nash, James Iredell, and William H. Battle (Raleigh, NC: Turner and
Hughes, 1837), pp. 15-30. Hughes, 1837), pp. 15-30.
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~~• July 4, 1776: South Carolina joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence~~
~~from Great Britain.549~~
~~• July 9, 1778: South Carolina signs and ratifies the Articles of Confederation.550~~
~~• May 14-September 17, 1787: Four of South Carolina’s five delegates participate~~
~~in the Constitutional Convention.551~~
~~• May 23, 1788: South Carolina convention ratifies the Constitution by a vote of~~
~~149-73.552~~
~~South Dakota~~
~~• April 30, 1803: The United~~
~~States acquires part of the~~
~~South Dakota: 40th State~~
~~land that will become South~~
~~Dakota Territory created March 2, 1861 (12 Stat. 239)~~
~~Dakota from France in the~~
~~Enabling and statehood law enacted February 22, 1889 (25 Stat. 676)~~
~~Louisiana Purchase, with~~
~~South Dakota admitted November 2, 1889 (26 Stat. 1549)~~549 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. 550 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677. 551 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 559. 552 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, p. 325; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 27, pp. 393-397. Congressional Research Service 65 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide
additional territory acquired additional territory acquired
in 1818 from Great in 1818 from Great
Britain.553 Britain.553
• • February 14, 1861: Senator James S. Green of Missouri reports 36 S. 562, a bill Senator James S. Green of Missouri reports 36 S. 562, a bill
to create the Territory of Dakota, from the Senate Committee on Territories.554 to create the Territory of Dakota, from the Senate Committee on Territories.554
• • February 26, 1861: Senate passes an amended version of 36 S. 562 without a Senate passes an amended version of 36 S. 562 without a
recorded vote.555 recorded vote.555
• • March 1, 1861: House passes 36 S. 562 without a recorded vote.556 House passes 36 S. 562 without a recorded vote.556
• • March 2, 1861: President James Buchanan signs 36 S. 562, creating the Territory President James Buchanan signs 36 S. 562, creating the Territory
of Dakota.557 of Dakota.557
• • November 8, 1887: Dakota Territory voters endorse splitting the territory into Dakota Territory voters endorse splitting the territory into
northern and southern entities, with 37,784 voting in favor of division and 32,913 northern and southern entities, with 37,784 voting in favor of division and 32,913
voting against division.558 voting against division.558

~~549 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.~~
~~550 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677.~~
~~551 Farrand, Records, vol. 3, p. 559.~~
~~552 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, p. 325; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 27, pp. 393-397.~~
~~553 John E. Miller, “The State of South Dakota,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 3, pp. 1103-1128.~~
~~554 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 14, 1861), p. 228; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(February 14, 1861), p. 897.~~
~~555 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 316-317; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(February 26, 1861), pp. 1207-1208.~~
~~556 House Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1861), p. 452; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1,~~
~~1861), pp. 1334-1335.~~
~~557 12 Stat. 239.~~
~~558 Louis K. Church, “A Proclamation. By the Governor of the Territory of Dakota” (January 12, 1888), in~~ ~~Bismarck~~
~~Weekly Tribune, January 20, 1888, p. 6.~~
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• • December 12, 1887: Senator Charles F. Manderson of Nebraska introduces 50 S. Senator Charles F. Manderson of Nebraska introduces 50 S.
185, a bill to admit southern Dakota Territory as the State of Dakota and create a 185, a bill to admit southern Dakota Territory as the State of Dakota and create a
new Territory of Lincoln in northern Dakota Territory.559 new Territory of Lincoln in northern Dakota Territory.559
• • April 19, 1888: Senate votes 26-23 to pass an amended version of 50 S. 185 that Senate votes 26-23 to pass an amended version of 50 S. 185 that
would create a State of South Dakota and a new Territory of North Dakota.560 would create a State of South Dakota and a new Territory of North Dakota.560
• • January 18, 1889: Houses votes 145-98 to pass an amended version of 50 S. Houses votes 145-98 to pass an amended version of 50 S.
185. This new version would clear the way to admit Montana, New Mexico, 185. This new version would clear the way to admit Montana, New Mexico,
Washington, and—depending on the results of a referendum on division—either Washington, and—depending on the results of a referendum on division—either
a combined state of Dakota or separate states of North Dakota and South a combined state of Dakota or separate states of North Dakota and South
Dakota.561 Dakota.561
• • February 20, 1889: House and Senate agree to a compromise version of 50 S. House and Senate agree to a compromise version of 50 S.
185 that allows the creation and admission of four new states: Montana, North 185 that allows the creation and admission of four new states: Montana, North
Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington. Both chambers pass the bill without Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington. Both chambers pass the bill without
recorded votes.562 recorded votes.562
• • February 22, 1889: President Grover Cleveland signs 50 S. 185, enabling President Grover Cleveland signs 50 S. 185, enabling
statehood for Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington.563 statehood for Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington.563
~~• July 4, 1889: Delegates gather in Sioux Falls to write a state constitution for~~
~~South Dakota.564~~
~~• August 5, 1889: Delegates to the Sioux Falls convention vote 72-0 to adopt a~~
~~state constitution for South Dakota.565~~
~~• October 1, 1889: South Dakota voters ratify the state constitution, 70,131 to~~
~~3,267.566~~
~~• November 2, 1889: President Benjamin Harrison issues a proclamation~~
~~admitting South Dakota as the 40th state.567~~
~~Tennessee~~
~~• September 3, 1783: Great Britain~~
~~cedes territory, including the land~~
~~Tennessee: 16th State~~
~~that will become the state of~~
~~Southwest Territory created May 26, 1790 (1 Stat. 123)~~
~~Tennessee admitted June 1, 1796 (1 Stat. 491)~~

553 John E. Miller, “The State of South Dakota,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 3, pp. 1103-1128. 554 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 14, 1861), p. 228; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 14, 1861), p. 897. 555 Senate Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 316-317; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 26, 1861), pp. 1207-1208. 556 House Journal, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1861), p. 452; Congressional Globe, 36th Cong., 2nd sess. (March 1, 1861), pp. 1334-1335. 557 12 Stat. 239. 558 Louis K. Church, “A Proclamation. By the Governor of the Territory of Dakota” (January 12, 1888), in Bismarck Weekly Tribune, January 20, 1888, p. 6. 559 559 Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 1st sess. (December 12, 1887), p. 33; , 50th Cong., 1st sess. (December 12, 1887), p. 33; Congressional Record, vol. 19, part 1 (December , vol. 19, part 1 (December
12, 1887), p. 22. 12, 1887), p. 22.
560 560 Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 1st sess. (April 19, 1888), pp. 695-696; , 50th Cong., 1st sess. (April 19, 1888), pp. 695-696; Congressional Record, vol. 19, part 4 (April 19, , vol. 19, part 4 (April 19,
1888), pp. 3139-3140. 1888), pp. 3139-3140.
561 561 House Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1889), pp. 290-298; , 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1889), pp. 290-298; Congressional Record, vol. 20, part 1 , vol. 20, part 1
(January 18, 1889), pp. 951-952. (January 18, 1889), pp. 951-952.
562 562 House Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 20, 1889), pp. 561-570; , 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 20, 1889), pp. 561-570; Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. , 50th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 20, 1889), pp. 357-366; (February 20, 1889), pp. 357-366; Congressional Record, vol. 20, part 3 (February 20, 1889), pp. 2104 and 2116. , vol. 20, part 3 (February 20, 1889), pp. 2104 and 2116.
563 25 Stat. 676. 563 25 Stat. 676.
~~564 Journal of the Constitutional Convention of South Dakota (Sioux Falls, SD: Brown & Saenger, 1889), p. 3.~~
~~565 Journal of the Constitutional Convention of South Dakota, pp. 161-162.~~
~~566 Official Vote of South Dakota by Counties From October, 1889, to November, 1914 (Sioux Falls, SD: Mark D. Scott~~
~~Print, 1914), p. 5.~~
~~567 26 Stat. 1549.~~
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~~Tennessee, to the United States in the Treaty of Paris.568~~
~~• December 22, 1789: North Carolina General Assembly agrees to cede its~~
~~western lands to the U.S. government.569~~
~~• April 2, 1790: Congress accepts the western lands ceded by North Carolina to~~
~~the newly-formed federal government.570~~
~~• April 7, 1790: Senate forms a select committee to “bring in a bill for the~~
~~government of the territory of the United States south of the river Ohio.”571~~
~~• April 9, 1790: Senate select committee reports “A bill for the government of the~~
~~territory of the United States south of the river Ohio.”572~~
~~• April 27, 1790: Senate passes the bill without a recorded vote.573~~
~~• April 29, 1790: House passes an amended version of the bill without a recorded~~
~~vote.574~~
~~• May 4, 1790: Senate rejects the House-amended version of the territorial bill~~
~~without a recorded vote.575~~
~~• May 5, 1790: House agrees to the Senate-passed version of the territorial bill~~
~~without a recorded vote.576~~
~~• May 26, 1790: President George Washington signs the bill to organize the~~
~~western lands ceded to the federal government by North Carolina into the~~
~~“territory of the United States, south of the river Ohio” (often shortened to “the~~
~~Southwest Territory”).577~~
~~• September 15-November 15, 1795: A census conducted in the Southwest~~
~~Territory polls free adult males on the following question: “Is it your wish if, on~~
~~taking the enumeration, there should prove to be less than sixty thousand~~
~~inhabitants, that the Territory shall be admitted as a State in to the Federal Union~~
~~with such less number or not?” Those polled affirmed the population’s desire to~~
~~join the Union by a vote of 6,504 to 2,562. Voters also agree to hold a~~

~~568 “Treaty of Paris (1783),” Milestone Documents, National Archives and Records Administration,~~
~~https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/treaty-of-paris#:~:text=~~
~~This%20treaty%2C%20signed%20on%20September,States%20as%20an%20independent%20nation~~ Congressional Research Service 66 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • July 4, 1889: Delegates gather in Sioux Falls to write a state constitution for South Dakota.564 • August 5, 1889: Delegates to the Sioux Falls convention vote 72-0 to adopt a state constitution for South Dakota.565 • October 1, 1889: South Dakota voters ratify the state constitution, 70,131 to 3,267.566 • November 2, 1889: President Benjamin Harrison issues a proclamation admitting South Dakota as the 40th state.567 Tennessee • September 3, 1783: Great Britain cedes territory, including the land Tennessee: 16th State that will become the state of Southwest Territory created May 26, 1790 (1 Stat. 123) Tennessee, to the United States in Tennessee admitted June 1, 1796 (1 Stat. 491) the Treaty of Paris.568 • December 22, 1789: North Carolina General Assembly agrees to cede its western lands to the U.S. government.569 • April 2, 1790: Congress accepts the western lands ceded by North Carolina to the newly-formed federal government.570 • April 7, 1790: Senate forms a select committee to “bring in a bill for the government of the territory of the United States south of the river Ohio.”571 • April 9, 1790: Senate select committee reports “A bill for the government of the territory of the United States south of the river Ohio.”572 • April 27, 1790: Senate passes the bill without a recorded vote.573 • April 29, 1790: House passes an amended version of the bill without a recorded vote.574 564 Journal of the Constitutional Convention of South Dakota (Sioux Falls, SD: Brown & Saenger, 1889), p. 3. 565 Journal of the Constitutional Convention of South Dakota, pp. 161-162. 566 Official Vote of South Dakota by Counties From October, 1889, to November, 1914 (Sioux Falls, SD: Mark D. Scott Print, 1914), p. 5. 567 26 Stat. 1549. 568 “Treaty of Paris (1783),” Milestone Documents, National Archives and Records Administration, https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/treaty-of-paris. .
569 “An Act for the Purpose of Ceding to the United States of America, Certain Western Lands Therein Described,” in 569 “An Act for the Purpose of Ceding to the United States of America, Certain Western Lands Therein Described,” in
Walter Clark (ed.), Walter Clark (ed.), The State Records of North Carolina, vol. 25 (Goldsboro, NC: Nash Brothers, 1906), pp. 4-6; Lynn , vol. 25 (Goldsboro, NC: Nash Brothers, 1906), pp. 4-6; Lynn
E. Murray, “Tennessee Prestatehood Legal Materials,” in Chiorazzi and Most, E. Murray, “Tennessee Prestatehood Legal Materials,” in Chiorazzi and Most, Prestatehood Legal Materials, vol. 2, , vol. 2,
pp. 1175-1196;pp. 1175-1196; Territorial Papers of the United States, vol. 4, p. 3. , vol. 4, p. 3.
570 1 Stat. 106. 570 1 Stat. 106.
571 571 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 7, 1790), p. 130; , 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 7, 1790), p. 130; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 7, , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 7,
1790), p. 998. 1790), p. 998.
572 572 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 9, 1790), p. 130; , 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 9, 1790), p. 130; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 9, , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 9,
1790), vol. 2, p. 999. 1790), vol. 2, p. 999.
573 573 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 27, 1790), p. 132. The vote does not appear in the , 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 27, 1790), p. 132. The vote does not appear in the Annals of Congress. .
574 574 House Journal, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 29, 1790), p. 204; , 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April 29, 1790), p. 204; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (April
29, 1790), p. 1602. 29, 1790), p. 1602.
~~575 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (May 4, 1790), p. 137; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (May 4,~~
~~1790), p. 1006.~~
~~576 House Journal, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (May 5, 1790), p. 209. The vote does not appear in the Annals of Congress.~~
~~577 1 Stat. 123.~~
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Congressional Research Service 67 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • May 4, 1790: Senate rejects the House-amended version of the territorial bill without a recorded vote.575 • May 5, 1790: House agrees to the Senate-passed version of the territorial bill without a recorded vote.576 • May 26, 1790: President George Washington signs the bill to organize the western lands ceded to the federal government by North Carolina into the “territory of the United States, south of the river Ohio” (often shortened to “the Southwest Territory”).577 • September 15-November 15, 1795: A census conducted in the Southwest Territory polls free adult males on the following question: “Is it your wish if, on taking the enumeration, there should prove to be less than sixty thousand inhabitants, that the Territory shall be admitted as a State in to the Federal Union with such less number or not?” Those polled affirmed the population’s desire to join the Union by a vote of 6,504 to 2,562. Voters also agree to hold a Constitutional Convention, should the census count a minimum of 60,000 Constitutional Convention, should the census count a minimum of 60,000
inhabitants.578 inhabitants.578
• • November 28, 1795: Governor William Blount calls for the election of delegates Governor William Blount calls for the election of delegates
to a constitutional convention.579 to a constitutional convention.579
• • January 11, 1796: Elected delegates convene a constitutional convention in Elected delegates convene a constitutional convention in
Knoxville.580 Knoxville.580
• • February 6, 1796: The convention unanimously approves the state constitution The convention unanimously approves the state constitution
drafted during the convention.581 drafted during the convention.581
• • May 18, 1796: Senator Rufus King of New York reports a statehood bill from Senator Rufus King of New York reports a statehood bill from
committee.582 committee.582
• • May 26, 1796: Senate passes an amended version of the statehood bill by a vote Senate passes an amended version of the statehood bill by a vote
of 15-8.583 of 15-8.583
~~• May 30, 1796: House passes an amended version of the bill without a recorded~~
~~vote.584~~
~~• May 31, 1796: Senate agrees to the House version of the bill without a recorded~~
~~vote.585~~
~~• June 1, 1796: President Washington signs the bill, bringing Tennessee into the~~
~~Union as the 16th state.586~~
~~Texas~~
~~• April 30, 1803: The United States~~
~~Texas: 28th State~~
~~acquires northern portions of the land~~
~~Annexation law enacted March 1, 1845 (5 Stat. 797)~~
~~that will become the state of Texas~~
~~Texas admitted December 29, 1845 (9 Stat. 108)~~
~~from France via the Louisiana~~
~~Purchase.587~~

575 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (May 4, 1790), p. 137; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (May 4, 1790), p. 1006. 576 House Journal, 1st Cong., 2nd sess. (May 5, 1790), p. 209. The vote does not appear in the Annals of Congress. 577 1 Stat. 123. 578 Results of the vote can be found in the “Census Schedule,” in 578 Results of the vote can be found in the “Census Schedule,” in Territorial Papers of the United States, vol. 4, pp. , vol. 4, pp.
404-405. For the language of the census question, see “An Act for the Enumeration of the Inhabitants of the Territory 404-405. For the language of the census question, see “An Act for the Enumeration of the Inhabitants of the Territory
of the United States of America South of the River Ohio,” p. 8, in Tennessee Virtual Archive, of the United States of America South of the River Ohio,” p. 8, in Tennessee Virtual Archive, Tennessee Founding and
Landmark Documents, https://teva.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/tfd/id/548. , https://teva.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/tfd/id/548.
579 “Proclamation by William Blount, November 28, 1795,” in 579 “Proclamation by William Blount, November 28, 1795,” in Territorial Papers of the United States, vol. 4, pp. 407-, vol. 4, pp. 407-
408. 408.
580 580 Journal of the Proceedings of a Convention, Began and Held at Knoxville, on The Eleventh Day of January, One
Thousand Seven Hundred and Ninety Six, for the Purpose of Forming a Constitution, or Form of Government, for the
Permanent Government of the People,, in LLMC Digital database, at https://llmc.com/docDisplay5.aspx?set=00102t&in LLMC Digital database, at https://llmc.com/docDisplay5.aspx?set=00102t&
volume=0001&part=001, p. 3. volume=0001&part=001, p. 3.
581 581 Journal of the Proceedings of a Convention, p. 37. , p. 37.
582 582 Senate Journal, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 18, 1796), p. 264; , 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 18, 1796), p. 264; Annals of Congress, vol. 5, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 18, , vol. 5, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 18,
1796), p. 97. 1796), p. 97.
583 583 Senate Journal, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 26, 1796), p. 275; , 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 26, 1796), p. 275; Annals of Congress, vol. 5, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 26, , vol. 5, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 26,
1796), p. 109. 1796), p. 109.
~~584 House Journal, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 30, 1796), p. 590; Annals of Congress, vol. 5, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 30,~~
~~1796), p. 1474.~~
~~585 Senate Journal, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 31, 1796), p. 284; Annals of Congress, vol. 5, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 31,~~
~~1796), p. 117.~~
~~586 1 Stat. 491.~~
~~587 “Louisiana Purchase Treaty (1803),” in NARA, Milestone Documents, at https://www.archives.gov/milestone-~~
~~documents/louisiana-purchase-treaty.~~
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Congressional Research Service 68 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • May 30, 1796: House passes an amended version of the bill without a recorded vote.584 • May 31, 1796: Senate agrees to the House version of the bill without a recorded vote.585 • June 1, 1796: President Washington signs the bill, bringing Tennessee into the Union as the 16th state.586 Texas • April 30, 1803: The United States Texas: 28th State acquires northern portions of the land Annexation law enacted March 1, 1845 (5 Stat. 797) that will become the state of Texas Texas admitted December 29, 1845 (9 Stat. 108) from France via the Louisiana Purchase.587
• • March 1-17, 1836: Fifty-nine delegates representing settlements in Texas meet Fifty-nine delegates representing settlements in Texas meet
in Washington-on-the-Brazos for a general convention to draft a declaration of in Washington-on-the-Brazos for a general convention to draft a declaration of
independence from Mexico and form a government for the independent Republic independence from Mexico and form a government for the independent Republic
of Texas.588 of Texas.588
• • March 2, 1836: The delegates to the general convention sign the Texas The delegates to the general convention sign the Texas
Declaration of Independence.589 Declaration of Independence.589
• • March 16, 1836: The delegates in Washington-on-the-Brazos finalize and adopt The delegates in Washington-on-the-Brazos finalize and adopt
a constitution for the Republic of Texas.590 a constitution for the Republic of Texas.590
• • April 21, 1836: The Republic of Texas wins independence from Mexico after The Republic of Texas wins independence from Mexico after
defeating Mexican forces in a final battle along the San Jacinto River.591 defeating Mexican forces in a final battle along the San Jacinto River.591
• • September 1836: Eligible voters ratify the Republic’s constitution and vote Eligible voters ratify the Republic’s constitution and vote
3,277 to 91 in favor of Texas joining the United States.592 3,277 to 91 in favor of Texas joining the United States.592
~~• March 3, 1837: The U.S. government officially recognizes the Republic of Texas~~
~~when President Andrew Jackson appoints Alcée Louis La Branche as Chargé~~
~~d’Affaires in Houston.593~~
~~• January 25, 1845: House passes a joint resolution (28 H.J.Res. 46) to annex~~
~~Texas by a vote of 120-98.594~~
~~• February 27, 1845: Senate passes an amended version of the annexation~~
~~resolution following a preliminary vote of 27-25.595~~
~~• February 28, 1845: House passes the Senate version of the resolution.596~~
~~• March 1, 1845: President John Tyler signs the joint resolution to annex Texas to~~
~~the United States.597~~
~~• July 4, 1845: A special convention of delegates elected by the people of the~~
~~Republic of Texas meet to consider the joint resolution offered by the U.S.~~

584 House Journal, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 30, 1796), p. 590; Annals of Congress, vol. 5, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 30, 1796), p. 1474. 585 Senate Journal, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 31, 1796), p. 284; Annals of Congress, vol. 5, 4th Cong., 1st sess. (May 31, 1796), p. 117. 586 1 Stat. 491. 587 “Louisiana Purchase Treaty (1803),” in NARA, Milestone Documents, at https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/louisiana-purchase-treaty. 588 588 Journals of the Convention of the Free, Sovereign, and Independent People of Texas, in General Convention,
Assembled, 1836, in H.P.H. Gammel, , 1836, in H.P.H. Gammel, The Laws of Texas, 1822-1897, vol. 1 (Austin, TX: Gammel Book Co., 1898), , vol. 1 (Austin, TX: Gammel Book Co., 1898),
pp. 821-904; Texas State Library and Archives Commission, “Texas Declaration of Independence,” at pp. 821-904; Texas State Library and Archives Commission, “Texas Declaration of Independence,” at
https://www.tsl.texas.gov/treasures/republic/declare-01.html. https://www.tsl.texas.gov/treasures/republic/declare-01.html.
589 “Texas Declaration of Independence.” 589 “Texas Declaration of Independence.”
590 “Constitution of Republic of Texas,” in 590 “Constitution of Republic of Texas,” in Laws of the Republic of Texas, in Two Volumes, vol. 1 (Houston: Printed at , vol. 1 (Houston: Printed at
the Office of the Telegraph, 1838), pp. 9-25. the Office of the Telegraph, 1838), pp. 9-25.
591 Texas State Library and Archives Commission, “The Public Treaty of Velasco,” at https://www.tsl.texas.gov/ 591 Texas State Library and Archives Commission, “The Public Treaty of Velasco,” at https://www.tsl.texas.gov/
exhibits/texas175/velasco.html. exhibits/texas175/velasco.html.
592 John Sayles, 592 John Sayles, The Constitutions of the State of Texas, With The Reconstruction Acts of Congress, the Constitution of
the Confederate States, and of the United States, Annotated, 4th ed. (St. Louis: Gilbert Book Co., 1893), p. 155; Eugene , 4th ed. (St. Louis: Gilbert Book Co., 1893), p. 155; Eugene
C. Barker, “The Annexation of Texas,” C. Barker, “The Annexation of Texas,” The Southwestern Historical Quarterly, vol. 50, no. 1 (July 1946), pp. 49-74. , vol. 50, no. 1 (July 1946), pp. 49-74.
~~593 U.S. Department of State, Office of the Historian, “A Guide to the United States’ History of Recognition,~~
~~Diplomatic, and Consular Relations, by Country, since 1776: Texas,” at https://history.state.gov/countries/texas.~~
594 House Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 25, 1845), p. 264; Congressional Globe~~, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (~~Congressional Research Service 69 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • March 3, 1837: The U.S. government officially recognizes the Republic of Texas when President Andrew Jackson appoints Alcée Louis La Branche as Chargé d’Affaires in Houston.593 • January January
~~25, 1845), p. 194.~~
~~595 Senate Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 27, 1845), pp. 220-221; Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess.~~
~~(February 27, 1845), p. 362.~~
~~596 The vote was reported as 134-77 in the House Journal and 132-76 in the Congressional Globe. See House Journal,~~
~~28th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 28, 1845), p. 527, and Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 28, 1845), p.~~
~~372.~~
~~597 Texas State Library and Archives Commission, “Joint Resolution for Annexing~~25, 1845: House passes a joint resolution (28 H.J.Res. 46) to annex Texas by a vote of 120-98.594 • February 27, 1845: Senate passes an amended version of the annexation resolution following a preliminary vote of 27-25.595 • February 28, 1845: House passes the Senate version of the resolution.596 • March 1, 1845: President John Tyler signs the joint resolution to annex Texas to ~~Texas to the United States~~
~~Approved March 1, 1845,” at https://www.tsl.texas.gov/ref/abouttx/annexation/march1845.html; 5 Stat. 797.~~
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the United States.597 • July 4, 1845: A special convention of delegates elected by the people of the Republic of Texas meet to consider the joint resolution offered by the U.S. Congress to annex the Republic. The delegates vote to accept the U.S. Congress to annex the Republic. The delegates vote to accept the U.S.
government’s offer of annexation and membership into the Union.598 government’s offer of annexation and membership into the Union.598
• • July 4-August 28, 1845: Delegates meet in Austin to draft a state constitution.599 Delegates meet in Austin to draft a state constitution.599
• • August 28, 1845: Delegates sign the new Texas state constitution.600 Delegates sign the new Texas state constitution.600
• • October 13, 1845: In a popular referendum, Texas voters approve annexation by In a popular referendum, Texas voters approve annexation by
a vote of 7,664 to 430 and approve the state constitution by a vote of 7,527 to a vote of 7,664 to 430 and approve the state constitution by a vote of 7,527 to
536.601 536.601
• • December 10, 1845: House Committee on Territories reports a joint resolution, House Committee on Territories reports a joint resolution,
29 H.J.Res. 2, “for the admission of the State of Texas to the Union.”602 29 H.J.Res. 2, “for the admission of the State of Texas to the Union.”602
• • December 16, 1845: House approves the joint resolution to admit Texas to the House approves the joint resolution to admit Texas to the
Union.603 Union.603
~~• December 22, 1845: Senate passes the joint resolution to admit Texas.604~~
~~• December 29, 1845: President James K. Polk signs the resolution admitting~~
~~Texas into the Union as the 28th state.605~~
~~Utah~~
~~• February 2, 1848: The United~~
~~Utah: 45th State~~
~~States, through the Treaty of~~
~~Utah Territory created September 9, 1850 (9 Stat. 453)~~
~~Guadalupe Hidalgo, acquires~~
~~Enabling and statehood law enacted July 16, 1894 (28 Stat. 107)~~
~~from Mexico the land that will~~
~~Utah admitted January 4, 1896 (29 Stat. 876)~~
~~become Utah.606~~
~~• January 29, 1850: Senator Henry Clay of Kentucky proposes what will later~~
~~become the Compromise of 1850. While not part of his original proposal, the~~
~~eventual legislative package includes organizing a territorial government for~~
~~Utah.607~~

593 U.S. Department of State, Office of the Historian, “A Guide to the United States’ History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations, by Country, since 1776: Texas,” at https://history.state.gov/countries/texas. 594 House Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 25, 1845), p. 264; Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 25, 1845), p. 194. 595 Senate Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 27, 1845), pp. 220-221; Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 27, 1845), p. 362. 596 The vote was reported as 134-77 in the House Journal and 132-76 in the Congressional Globe. See House Journal, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 28, 1845), p. 527, and Congressional Globe, 28th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 28, 1845), p. 372. 597 Texas State Library and Archives Commission, “Joint Resolution for Annexing Texas to the United States Approved March 1, 1845,” at https://www.tsl.texas.gov/ref/abouttx/annexation/march1845.html; 5 Stat. 797. 598 “Ordinance of the Convention of Texas, July 4, 1845,” Yale Law School, 598 “Ordinance of the Convention of Texas, July 4, 1845,” Yale Law School, Avalon Project, at , at
https://avalon.law.yale.edu/19th_century/texan03.asp; Ralph W. Steen, “Convention of 1845,” in https://avalon.law.yale.edu/19th_century/texan03.asp; Ralph W. Steen, “Convention of 1845,” in Handbook of Texas, ,
at https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/convention-of-1845. at https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/convention-of-1845.
599 599 Journals of the Convention, assembled at the city of Austin on the Fourth of July, 1845, for the purpose of framing a
constitution for the State of Texas (Austin, TX: Miner & Cruger, 1845). (Austin, TX: Miner & Cruger, 1845).
600 600 Journals of the Convention, pp. 366-367. , pp. 366-367.
601 Texas State Library and Archives Commission, “Ratification of Texas Annexation, 1845 Vote Totals,” at 601 Texas State Library and Archives Commission, “Ratification of Texas Annexation, 1845 Vote Totals,” at
https://www.tsl.texas.gov/treasures/earlystate/annex-doc.html. https://www.tsl.texas.gov/treasures/earlystate/annex-doc.html.
602 602 House Journal, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (December 10, 1845), p. 71; , 29th Cong., 1st sess. (December 10, 1845), p. 71; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 1st sess. , 29th Cong., 1st sess.
(December 10, 1845), pp. 39-40. (December 10, 1845), pp. 39-40.
603 The vote was reported as 141-57 in the 603 The vote was reported as 141-57 in the House Journal and 141-56 in the and 141-56 in the Congressional Globe. See . See House Journal, ,
29th Cong., 1st sess. (December 16, 1845), p. 110, and 29th Cong., 1st sess. (December 16, 1845), p. 110, and Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (December 16, 1845), , 29th Cong., 1st sess. (December 16, 1845),
p. 65. p. 65.
~~604 The Congressional Globe records the vote to adopt the resolution as 31-14, but the Senate Journal does not record a~~
~~vote. Instead, the Senate Journal records a vote of 31-13 to read the bill for a third time. Senate Journal, 29th Cong., 1st~~
~~sess. (December 22, 1845), p. 64; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (December 22, 1845), p. 92.~~
~~605 9 Stat. 108.~~
~~606 “Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848),” in NARA, Milestone Documents, at https://www.archives.gov/milestone-~~
~~documents/treaty-of-guadalupe-hidalgo; 9 Stat. 922.~~
~~607 McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom, pp. 70-75.~~
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Congressional Research Service 70 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • December 22, 1845: Senate passes the joint resolution to admit Texas.604 • December 29, 1845: President James K. Polk signs the resolution admitting Texas into the Union as the 28th state.605 Utah • February 2, 1848: The United Utah: 45th State States, through the Treaty of Utah Territory created September 9, 1850 (9 Stat. 453) Guadalupe Hidalgo, acquires Enabling and statehood law enacted July 16, 1894 (28 Stat. 107) from Mexico the land that will Utah admitted January 4, 1896 (29 Stat. 876) become Utah.606 • January 29, 1850: Senator Henry Clay of Kentucky proposes what will later become the Compromise of 1850. While not part of his original proposal, the eventual legislative package includes organizing a territorial government for Utah.607
• • May 8, 1850: The “Senate Select Committee of Thirteen” reports 31 S. 225, a The “Senate Select Committee of Thirteen” reports 31 S. 225, a
bill that would admit California to statehood, create territorial governments for bill that would admit California to statehood, create territorial governments for
New Mexico and Utah, and revise the borders of Texas.608 New Mexico and Utah, and revise the borders of Texas.608
• • August 1, 1850: Senate passes an amended version of the bill with no recorded Senate passes an amended version of the bill with no recorded
vote on final passage. It is now a narrower piece of legislation that would create vote on final passage. It is now a narrower piece of legislation that would create
the Territory of Utah.609 the Territory of Utah.609
• • September 7, 1850: The House passes the Utah Territory bill by a vote of 97- The House passes the Utah Territory bill by a vote of 97-
85.610 85.610
• • September 9, 1850: President Millard Fillmore signs the Utah Territory bill into President Millard Fillmore signs the Utah Territory bill into
law. It is one of five bills that make up the Compromise of 1850.611 law. It is one of five bills that make up the Compromise of 1850.611
• • September 6, 1893: Delegate Joseph L. Rawlins of Utah introduces a bill for Delegate Joseph L. Rawlins of Utah introduces a bill for
Utah’s admission to the Union (53 H.R. 352).612 It is the latest in decades of Utah’s admission to the Union (53 H.R. 352).612 It is the latest in decades of
attempts by Utah to secure statehood.613 attempts by Utah to secure statehood.613
~~• December 13, 1893: House Committee on Territories reports the bill favorably~~
~~with amendments. The House agrees to the amendments and passes the bill~~
~~without a recorded vote.614~~
~~• July 10, 1894: The Senate passes the Utah bill without a recorded vote.615~~
~~• July 16, 1894: President Grover Cleveland signs the Utah Enabling Act into~~
~~law.616~~
~~• November 1894: Eligible voters in Utah select 107 delegates to a constitutional~~
~~convention.617~~
~~• March 4-May 8, 1895: The delegates meet in Salt Lake City to write the state~~
~~constitution.618~~
~~• May 8, 1895: The delegates approve the constitution by a vote of 99 to 0.619~~

604 The Congressional Globe records the vote to adopt the resolution as 31-14, but the Senate Journal does not record a vote. Instead, the Senate Journal records a vote of 31-13 to read the bill for a third time. Senate Journal, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (December 22, 1845), p. 64; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (December 22, 1845), p. 92. 605 9 Stat. 108. 606 “Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848),” in NARA, Milestone Documents, at https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/treaty-of-guadalupe-hidalgo; 9 Stat. 922. 607 McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom, pp. 70-75. 608 U.S. Congress, Senate Committee of Thirteen, report to accompany S. 225 and S. 226, 31st Cong., 1st sess., S. Rept. 608 U.S. Congress, Senate Committee of Thirteen, report to accompany S. 225 and S. 226, 31st Cong., 1st sess., S. Rept.
31-123, May 8, 1850; 31-123, May 8, 1850; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (May 8, 1850), pp. 944-948. , 31st Cong., 1st sess. (May 8, 1850), pp. 944-948.
609 609 Senate Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 1, 1850), p. 518; , 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 1, 1850), p. 518; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 1, , 31st Cong., 1st sess. (August 1,
1850), p. 1504. 1850), p. 1504.
610 610 House Journal, 31st Cong., 1st sess. (September 7, 1850), p. 1425; , 31st Cong., 1st sess. (September 7, 1850), p. 1425; Congressional Globe, 31st Cong. 1st sess. , 31st Cong. 1st sess.
(September 7, 1850), p. 1776. (September 7, 1850), p. 1776.
611 “Introduction,” in Library of Congress, 611 “Introduction,” in Library of Congress, Compromise of 1850: Primary Documents in American History, at , at
https://guides.loc.gov/compromise-1850; 9 Stat. 453. https://guides.loc.gov/compromise-1850; 9 Stat. 453.
612 612 House Journal, 53rd Cong., 1st sess. (September 6, 1893), p. 37; , 53rd Cong., 1st sess. (September 6, 1893), p. 37; Congressional Record, vol. 25, part 1 (September 6, , vol. 25, part 1 (September 6,
1893), p. 1276. 1893), p. 1276.
613 Robert Lee Warthen, “Legal Research in the State of Deseret and the Utah Territory, 1847-1896,” in Chiorazzi and 613 Robert Lee Warthen, “Legal Research in the State of Deseret and the Utah Territory, 1847-1896,” in Chiorazzi and
Most, Most, Prestatehood Legal Materials, vol. 2, pp. 1217-1270. , vol. 2, pp. 1217-1270.
614 House Journal, 53rd Cong., 2nd sess. (December 13, 1893), p. 29; Congressional Record~~, vol. 26, part 1 (~~Congressional Research Service 71 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • December December
~~13, 1893), p. 220.~~
~~615 Senate Journal, 53rd Cong., 2nd sess. (July 10, 1894), p. 283; Congressional Record, vol. 26, part 7 (July 10, 1894),~~
~~p. 7251.~~
~~616 28 Stat. 107.~~
~~617~~ ~~Official Report of the Proceedings and Debates of the Convention Assembled at Salt Lake City on the Fourth Date~~
~~of March, 1895, to Adopt A Constitution for the State of Utah, vol. 1 (Salt Lake City, UT: Star Printing Company,~~
~~1898), pp. 3-4.~~
~~618 Official Report of the Proceedings and Debates, vols. 1-2.~~
~~619 Official Report of the Proceedings and Debates, vol. 2, pp. 1850-1851.~~
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13, 1893: House Committee on Territories reports the bill favorably with amendments. The House agrees to the amendments and passes the bill without a recorded vote.614 • July 10, 1894: The Senate passes the Utah bill without a recorded vote.615 • July 16, 1894: President Grover Cleveland signs the Utah Enabling Act into law.616 • November 1894: Eligible voters in Utah select 107 delegates to a constitutional convention.617 • March 4-May 8, 1895: The delegates meet in Salt Lake City to write the state constitution.618 • May 8, 1895: The delegates approve the constitution by a vote of 99 to 0.619 • • November 5, 1895: Utah’s eligible voters approve the constitution 31,305 to Utah’s eligible voters approve the constitution 31,305 to
7,607.620 7,607.620
• • January 4, 1896: President Cleveland issues a proclamation of statehood, and President Cleveland issues a proclamation of statehood, and
Utah is admitted to the Union as the 45th state.621 Utah is admitted to the Union as the 45th state.621
Vermont
• • July 20, 1764: King George III, in a King George III, in a
King-in-Council order, declares the King-in-Council order, declares the
Vermont: 14th State
Connecticut River is the border between Connecticut River is the border between
New York and New Hampshire, leaving New York and New Hampshire, leaving
Vermont admitted March 4, 1791 (1 Stat. 191) Vermont admitted March 4, 1791 (1 Stat. 191)
the disputed territory known as the New the disputed territory known as the New
Hampshire Grants inside the borders of New York.622 Hampshire Grants inside the borders of New York.622
• • January 15, 1777: Delegates meeting in Westminster declare the New Delegates meeting in Westminster declare the New
Hampshire Grants are a “free and independent state.”623 Hampshire Grants are a “free and independent state.”623
~~• July 2-8, 1777: Delegates meet in Windsor and write a constitution for the~~
~~“Commonwealth or State of Vermont.”624~~
~~• August 20-21, 1781: Congress, operating under the Articles of Confederation,~~
~~says it will consider admitting Vermont as a state only after settlement of its~~
~~borders.625 During this period, Vermont “existed in something of a political~~
~~netherworld, not really a state, and not really an independent country.”626~~
~~• October 28, 1790: Vermont agrees to settle land claims and its border dispute~~
~~with New York.627~~
~~• January 10, 1791: Delegates in Bennington vote 105-4 to ratify the U.S.~~
~~Constitution.628~~
~~• February 9, 1791: President George Washington sends to Congress copies of~~
~~“authentic documents, expressing the consent of the Legislatures of New York~~
~~and of the territory of Vermont, that the said territory shall be admitted to be a~~

~~620 “Utah State Constitution,” in Utah Division of Archives and Records Service, Utah’s Road to Statehood, at~~
~~https://archives.utah.gov/research/exhibits/Statehood/conintro.htm; Stanley S. Ivans, “A Constitution for Utah,”~~ ~~Utah~~
~~Historical Quarterly, vol. 25 (1957), pp. 94-116.~~
~~621 29 Stat. 876.~~
~~622 Vermont v. New Hampshire, 289 U.S. 593 (1933), pp. 596 and 598-600.~~
~~623 “New-Hampshire Grants. Westminster Court-House, January 15th, 1777,” and “The Declaration and Petition of the~~
~~Inhabitants of the New-Hampshire Grants, to Congress, announcing the District to be a Free and Independent State,” in~~
~~Vermont State Papers; Being a Collection of Records and Documents, Connected with the Assumption and~~
~~Establishment of Government by the People of Vermont, ed. William Slade Jr. (Middlebury, VT: J.W. Copeland, 1823),~~
~~pp. 68-73.~~
~~624 “Constitution of Vermont” (1777) in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 6, pp. 3737-3749.~~
~~625 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 21 (August 20-21, 1781), pp. 887-888 and 892-893.~~
~~626 Peverill Squire, The Evolution of American Legislatures: Colonies, Territories, and States, 1619-2009 (Ann Arbor,~~
~~MI: The University of Michigan Press, 2012), p. 159.~~
~~627 “An Act directing the payment of thirty thousand Dollars to the State of Newyork, and declaring what shall be the~~
~~Boundary line between the State of Vermont and State of Newyork—and declaring certain grants therein mentioned,~~
~~extinguished,” in~~ ~~Acts and Laws, Passed by the Legislature of the State of Vermont, at their session at Castleton, the~~
~~second Thursday of October, 1790~~ ~~(Windsor, VT: Alden Spooner, 1790), pp. 9-10.~~
~~628 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 337-338; “State of Vermont. In Convention of the Delegates of the people of the State of~~
~~Vermont,” in Slade, Vermont State Papers, pp. 194-195.~~
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614 House Journal, 53rd Cong., 2nd sess. (December 13, 1893), p. 29; Congressional Record, vol. 26, part 1 (December 13, 1893), p. 220. 615 Senate Journal, 53rd Cong., 2nd sess. (July 10, 1894), p. 283; Congressional Record, vol. 26, part 7 (July 10, 1894), p. 7251. 616 28 Stat. 107. 617 Official Report of the Proceedings and Debates of the Convention Assembled at Salt Lake City on the Fourth Date of March, 1895, to Adopt A Constitution for the State of Utah, vol. 1 (Salt Lake City, UT: Star Printing Company, 1898), pp. 3-4. 618 Official Report of the Proceedings and Debates, vols. 1-2. 619 Official Report of the Proceedings and Debates, vol. 2, pp. 1850-1851. 620 “Utah State Constitution,” in Utah Division of Archives and Records Service, Utah’s Road to Statehood, at https://archives.utah.gov/research/exhibits/Statehood/conintro.htm; Stanley S. Ivans, “A Constitution for Utah,” Utah Historical Quarterly, vol. 25 (1957), pp. 94-116. 621 29 Stat. 876. 622 Vermont v. New Hampshire, 289 U.S. 593 (1933), pp. 596 and 598-600. 623 “New-Hampshire Grants. Westminster Court-House, January 15th, 1777,” and “The Declaration and Petition of the Inhabitants of the New-Hampshire Grants, to Congress, announcing the District to be a Free and Independent State,” in Vermont State Papers; Being a Collection of Records and Documents, Connected with the Assumption and Establishment of Government by the People of Vermont, ed. William Slade Jr. (Middlebury, VT: J.W. Copeland, 1823), pp. 68-73. Congressional Research Service 72 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • July 2-8, 1777: Delegates meet in Windsor and write a constitution for the “Commonwealth or State of Vermont.”624 • August 20-21, 1781: Congress, operating under the Articles of Confederation, says it will consider admitting Vermont as a state only after settlement of its borders.625 During this period, Vermont “existed in something of a political netherworld, not really a state, and not really an independent country.”626 • October 28, 1790: Vermont agrees to settle land claims and its border dispute with New York.627 • January 10, 1791: Delegates in Bennington vote 105-4 to ratify the U.S. Constitution.628 • February 9, 1791: President George Washington sends to Congress copies of “authentic documents, expressing the consent of the Legislatures of New York and of the territory of Vermont, that the said territory shall be admitted to be a distinct member of our Union.” Senate and House each refer the papers to a distinct member of our Union.” Senate and House each refer the papers to a
select committee for consideration.629 select committee for consideration.629
• • February 10, 1791: Senator Rufus King of New York reports from the Senate Senator Rufus King of New York reports from the Senate
select committee a bill admitting Vermont “as a new and entire member of the select committee a bill admitting Vermont “as a new and entire member of the
United States of America.”630 United States of America.”630
• • February 12, 1791: Senate passes the Vermont bill without a recorded vote.631 Senate passes the Vermont bill without a recorded vote.631
• • February 14, 1791: House passes the Vermont bill without a recorded vote.632 House passes the Vermont bill without a recorded vote.632
• • February 18, 1791: President Washington signs the Vermont bill, making its President Washington signs the Vermont bill, making its
admission effective on March 4.633 admission effective on March 4.633
• • March 4, 1791: Vermont becomes the 14th state.634 Vermont becomes the 14th state.634
~~Virginia~~
~~• April 10, 1606: King James I grants a~~
~~Virginia: 10th State~~
~~charter to the Virginia Company to~~
~~Virginia ratified Constitution June 25, 1788~~
~~create a colony in “that part of~~
~~America commonly called Virginia.”635~~
~~• July 4, 1776: Virginia joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence from~~
~~Great Britain.636~~
~~• July 9, 1778: Virginia signs the Articles of Confederation.637~~
~~• May 14-September 17, 1787: Seven of Virginia’s 10 delegates participate in the~~
~~Constitutional Convention.638~~
~~• June 25, 1788: Virginia’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a vote of 89-~~
~~79.639~~

624 “Constitution of Vermont” (1777) in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 6, pp. 3737-3749. 625 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 21 (August 20-21, 1781), pp. 887-888 and 892-893. 626 Peverill Squire, The Evolution of American Legislatures: Colonies, Territories, and States, 1619-2009 (Ann Arbor, MI: The University of Michigan Press, 2012), p. 159. 627 “An Act directing the payment of thirty thousand Dollars to the State of Newyork, and declaring what shall be the Boundary line between the State of Vermont and State of Newyork—and declaring certain grants therein mentioned, extinguished,” in Acts and Laws, Passed by the Legislature of the State of Vermont, at their session at Castleton, the second Thursday of October, 1790 (Windsor, VT: Alden Spooner, 1790), pp. 9-10. 628 Elliot, Debates, vol. 1, pp. 337-338; “State of Vermont. In Convention of the Delegates of the people of the State of Vermont,” in Slade, Vermont State Papers, pp. 194-195. 629 There are slight differences in punctuation and capitalization of the presidential message in the various sources. See 629 There are slight differences in punctuation and capitalization of the presidential message in the various sources. See
House Journal, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 9, 1791), p. 373; , 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 9, 1791), p. 373; Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 9, 1791), , 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 9, 1791),
pp. 241-246; and pp. 241-246; and Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 9, 1791), pp. 1798 and 2013. , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 9, 1791), pp. 1798 and 2013.
630 630 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 10, 1791), p. 247; , 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 10, 1791), p. 247; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess.
(February 10, 1791), p. 1798. (February 10, 1791), p. 1798.
631 631 Senate Journal, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 12, 1791), p. 262; , 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 12, 1791), p. 262; Annals of Congress, vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. , vol. 2, 1st Cong., 3rd sess.
(February 12, 1791), p. 1800. (February 12, 1791), p. 1800.
632 632 House Journal, 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 14, 1791), p. 378. The , 1st Cong., 3rd sess. (February 14, 1791), p. 378. The Annals of Congress does not report House does not report House
passage of the bill. passage of the bill.
633 1 Stat. 191. 633 1 Stat. 191.
634 Samuel B. Hand and H. Nicholas Muller III, “The State of Vermont,” in Shearer, 634 Samuel B. Hand and H. Nicholas Muller III, “The State of Vermont,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 3, pp. 1215-, vol. 3, pp. 1215-
1245. 1245.
~~635 “The First Charter of Virginia—1606,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 7, pp. 3783-3789.~~
~~636 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516.~~
~~637 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677.~~
~~638 Farrand, Records, p. 558.~~
~~639 Elliot, Debates, vol 1., p. 327; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 10, pp. 1540-1545.~~
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Congressional Research Service 73 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide Virginia • April 10, 1606: King James I grants a Virginia: 10th State charter to the Virginia Company to Virginia ratified Constitution June 25, 1788 create a colony in “that part of America commonly called Virginia.”635 • July 4, 1776: Virginia joins 12 other colonies in declaring independence from Great Britain.636 • July 9, 1778: Virginia signs the Articles of Confederation.637 • May 14-September 17, 1787: Seven of Virginia’s 10 delegates participate in the Constitutional Convention.638 • June 25, 1788: Virginia’s convention ratifies the Constitution by a vote of 89-79.639
Washington
• • October 20, 1818: U.S. U.S.
Washington: 42nd State
envoys Albert Gallatin and envoys Albert Gallatin and
Washington Territory created March 2, 1853 (10 Stat. 172) Washington Territory created March 2, 1853 (10 Stat. 172)
Richard Rush sign a Richard Rush sign a
Enabling and statehood law enacted February 22, 1889 (25 Stat. 676) Enabling and statehood law enacted February 22, 1889 (25 Stat. 676)
convention with Great convention with Great
Washington admitted November 11, 1889 (26 Stat. 1552) Washington admitted November 11, 1889 (26 Stat. 1552)
Britain agreeing to jointly Britain agreeing to jointly
occupy the Oregon occupy the Oregon
Territory. This area includes land that will become the state of Washington.640 Territory. This area includes land that will become the state of Washington.640
• • June 15, 1846: Secretary of State James Buchanan signs the Oregon Treaty with Secretary of State James Buchanan signs the Oregon Treaty with
Great Britain, allowing the United States to acquire all land in the Oregon Great Britain, allowing the United States to acquire all land in the Oregon
Territory south of the 49th parallel.641 Territory south of the 49th parallel.641
• • November 25-28, 1852: Forty-four delegates meet in Monticello, at the mouth of Forty-four delegates meet in Monticello, at the mouth of
the Cowlitz River in the Oregon Territory, to draft and sign a memorial the Cowlitz River in the Oregon Territory, to draft and sign a memorial
petitioning Congress to divide the Oregon Territory and create the separate petitioning Congress to divide the Oregon Territory and create the separate
territory of Columbia.642 territory of Columbia.642
• • January 25, 1853: Representative Charles Stuart of Michigan reports, from the Representative Charles Stuart of Michigan reports, from the
House Committee on Territories, a bill (32 H.R. 348) to establish a new House Committee on Territories, a bill (32 H.R. 348) to establish a new
Columbia Territory.643 Columbia Territory.643
~~• February 10, 1853: House passes 32 H.R. 348, amended to change the new~~
~~territory’s name to Washington.644~~
~~• March 2, 1853: Senate passes 32 H.R. 348 without a recorded vote.645 President~~
~~Millard Fillmore signs it into law.646~~
~~• December 12, 1887: Senator Charles F. Manderson of Nebraska introduces 50 S.~~
~~185, a bill to “provide for the division of Dakota into two States and to enable the~~
~~people of North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Washington to form~~
~~constitutions and State governments and to be admitted into the Union.”647~~
~~• April 19, 1888: Senate votes 26-23 to pass an amended version of 50 S. 185 that~~
~~would enable the Washington Territory to create a constitution, form a state~~
~~government, and join the Union.648~~

~~640 8 Stat. 248.~~
~~641 9 Stat. 869; Lang, “Oregon Treaty, 1846.”~~
~~642 Dennis P. Weber, “The Creation of Washington: Securing Democracy North of the Columbia,”~~ ~~Columbia: The~~
~~Magazine of Northwest History, vol. 17, no. 3 (Fall 2003), pp. 27-34; Washington State Archives, Territorial Timeline,~~
~~at https://www.sos.wa.gov/archives/timeline/detail.aspx?id=214.~~
~~643 House Journal, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (January 25, 1853), p. 185; Congressional Globe, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (January~~
~~25, 1853), p. 402.~~
~~644 The House Journal reported the vote as 129-29, while the Congressional Globe reported the vote as 128-29. See~~
House Journal, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (February 10, 1853), pp. 268-270, and Congressional Globe, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess.
~~(February 10, 1853), p. 555.~~
~~645 Senate Journal, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (March 2, 1853), p. 274; Congressional Globe, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (March 2,~~
~~1853), p. 1020.~~
~~646 10 Stat. 172.~~
~~647 Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 1st sess. (December 12, 1887), p. 33; Congressional Record, vol. 19, part 1 (December~~
~~12, 1887), p. 22.~~
~~648 Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 1st sess. (April 19, 1888), pp. 695-696; Congressional Record, vol. 19, part 4 (April 19,~~
~~1888), pp. 3139-3140.~~
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635 “The First Charter of Virginia—1606,” in Thorpe, Federal and State Constitutions, vol. 7, pp. 3783-3789. 636 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 5 (July 4, 1776), pp. 510-516. 637 Journals of the Continental Congress, vol. 11 (July 9, 1778), p. 677. 638 Farrand, Records, p. 558. 639 Elliot, Debates, vol 1., p. 327; Documentary History of the Ratification of the Constitution, vol. 10, pp. 1540-1545. 640 8 Stat. 248. 641 9 Stat. 869; Lang, “Oregon Treaty, 1846.” 642 Dennis P. Weber, “The Creation of Washington: Securing Democracy North of the Columbia,” Columbia: The Magazine of Northwest History, vol. 17, no. 3 (Fall 2003), pp. 27-34; Washington State Archives, Territorial Timeline, at https://www.sos.wa.gov/archives/timeline/detail.aspx?id=214. 643 House Journal, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (January 25, 1853), p. 185; Congressional Globe, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (January 25, 1853), p. 402. Congressional Research Service 74 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • February 10, 1853: House passes 32 H.R. 348, amended to change the new territory’s name to Washington.644 • March 2, 1853: Senate passes 32 H.R. 348 without a recorded vote.645 President Millard Fillmore signs it into law.646 • December 12, 1887: Senator Charles F. Manderson of Nebraska introduces 50 S. 185, a bill to “provide for the division of Dakota into two States and to enable the people of North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Washington to form constitutions and State governments and to be admitted into the Union.”647 • April 19, 1888: Senate votes 26-23 to pass an amended version of 50 S. 185 that would enable the Washington Territory to create a constitution, form a state government, and join the Union.648
• • January 18, 1889: The House votes 145-98 to pass an amended version of 50 S. The House votes 145-98 to pass an amended version of 50 S.
185. This new version would clear the way to admit Montana, New Mexico, 185. This new version would clear the way to admit Montana, New Mexico,
Washington, and—depending on the results of a referendum on division—either Washington, and—depending on the results of a referendum on division—either
a combined state of Dakota or separate states of North Dakota and South a combined state of Dakota or separate states of North Dakota and South
Dakota.649 Dakota.649
• • February 20, 1889: The House and Senate agree to a compromise version of 50 The House and Senate agree to a compromise version of 50
S. 185 that allows the creation and admission of four new states: Montana, North S. 185 that allows the creation and admission of four new states: Montana, North
Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington. Both chambers pass the bill without Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington. Both chambers pass the bill without
recorded votes.650 recorded votes.650
• • February 22, 1889: President Grover Cleveland signs 50 S. 185, enabling President Grover Cleveland signs 50 S. 185, enabling
statehood for Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington.651 statehood for Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Washington.651
• • July 4-August 22, 1889: Seventy-five delegates convene a Constitutional Seventy-five delegates convene a Constitutional
Convention in the Territorial Capitol Building in Olympia to draft a state’s Convention in the Territorial Capitol Building in Olympia to draft a state’s
constitution for Washington.652 constitution for Washington.652
• • October 1, 1889: Eligible voters approve the state constitution, by a vote of Eligible voters approve the state constitution, by a vote of
40,152 in favor and 11,879 opposed.653 40,152 in favor and 11,879 opposed.653
~~• November 11, 1889: President Benjamin Harrison issues a proclamation~~
~~declaring Washington’s admission into the Union as the 42nd state.654~~
~~West Virginia~~
~~• April 17, 1861: Delegates to a~~
~~West Virginia: 35th State~~
~~Virginia state convention adopt an~~
~~Enabling and admission law enacted December 31,~~
~~Ordinance of Secession to repeal~~
~~1862 (12 Stat. 633)~~
~~Virginia’s 1788 ratification of the~~
~~West Virginia admitted June 20, 1863 (13 Stat. 731)~~
~~Constitution and secede from the~~
~~Union.655~~
~~• May 13-15, 1861: Delegates from a number of counties in western Virginia~~
~~assemble for the First Wheeling Convention to consider action on the Ordinance~~
~~of Secession, and resolve to work to defeat passage of the ordinance. The~~
~~delegates agree that if voters approve the ordinance, delegates from the western~~
~~counties will elect delegates to a Second Wheeling Convention, to be convened~~
~~on June 11, 1861.656~~

644 The House Journal reported the vote as 129-29, while the Congressional Globe reported the vote as 128-29. See House Journal, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (February 10, 1853), pp. 268-270, and Congressional Globe, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (February 10, 1853), p. 555. 645 Senate Journal, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (March 2, 1853), p. 274; Congressional Globe, 32nd Cong., 2nd sess. (March 2, 1853), p. 1020. 646 10 Stat. 172. 647 Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 1st sess. (December 12, 1887), p. 33; Congressional Record, vol. 19, part 1 (December 12, 1887), p. 22. 648 Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 1st sess. (April 19, 1888), pp. 695-696; Congressional Record, vol. 19, part 4 (April 19, 1888), pp. 3139-3140. 649 649 House Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1889), pp. 290-298; , 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (January 18, 1889), pp. 290-298; Congressional Record, vol. 20, part 1 , vol. 20, part 1
(January 18, 1889), pp. 951-952. (January 18, 1889), pp. 951-952.
650 650 House Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 20, 1889), pp. 561-570; , 50th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 20, 1889), pp. 561-570; Senate Journal, 50th Cong., 2nd sess. , 50th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 20, 1889), pp. 357-366; (February 20, 1889), pp. 357-366; Congressional Record, vol. 20, part 3 (February 20, 1889), pp. 2104 and 2116. , vol. 20, part 3 (February 20, 1889), pp. 2104 and 2116.
651 25 Stat. 676. 651 25 Stat. 676.
652 Beverly Paulik Rosenow (ed.), 652 Beverly Paulik Rosenow (ed.), The Journal of the Washington State Constitutional Convention, 1889 (Buffalo, NY: (Buffalo, NY:
William S. Hein & Co., 1999); Washington State Archives, William S. Hein & Co., 1999); Washington State Archives, Washington State Constitution, at https://www.sos.wa.gov/, at https://www.sos.wa.gov/
archives/state-constitution.aspx. archives/state-constitution.aspx.
653 653 Washington State Constitution; James Leonard Fitts, “The Washington Constitutional Convention of 1889” ; James Leonard Fitts, “The Washington Constitutional Convention of 1889”
(master’s thesis, University of Washington, 1951), at https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/267983137.pdf, pp. 194-195. (master’s thesis, University of Washington, 1951), at https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/267983137.pdf, pp. 194-195.
~~654 26 Stat. 1552.~~
~~655 “Ordinance of Secession of the Commonwealth of Virginia,” April 17, 1861, NARA, Record Group 59, Series:~~
~~Records Relating to the Virginia Ordinance of Secession, at https://catalog.archives.gov/id/598395.~~
~~656 “Proceedings of the First Wheeling Convention,” in West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History,~~ ~~A State~~
~~(continued...)~~
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Congressional Research Service 75 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • November 11, 1889: President Benjamin Harrison issues a proclamation declaring Washington’s admission into the Union as the 42nd state.654 West Virginia • April 17, 1861: Delegates to a West Virginia: 35th State Virginia state convention adopt an Enabling and admission law enacted December 31, Ordinance of Secession to repeal 1862 (12 Stat. 633) Virginia’s 1788 ratification of the West Virginia admitted June 20, 1863 (13 Stat. 731) Constitution and secede from the Union.655 • May 13-15, 1861: Delegates from a number of counties in western Virginia assemble for the First Wheeling Convention to consider action on the Ordinance of Secession, and resolve to work to defeat passage of the ordinance. The delegates agree that if voters approve the ordinance, delegates from the western counties will elect delegates to a Second Wheeling Convention, to be convened on June 11, 1861.656
• • May 23, 1861: Virginia’s eligible voters ratify the Ordinance of Secession by a Virginia’s eligible voters ratify the Ordinance of Secession by a
vote of 125,950 to 20,373.657 vote of 125,950 to 20,373.657
• • June 11-25, 1861: Delegates from Virginia’s western region meet in the Second Delegates from Virginia’s western region meet in the Second
Wheeling Convention to form Virginia’s “Restored Government” and officially Wheeling Convention to form Virginia’s “Restored Government” and officially
declare allegiance to the Union.658 declare allegiance to the Union.658
• • July 1861: The U.S. government recognizes the Restored Government as The U.S. government recognizes the Restored Government as
Virginia’s legitimate governing body and allows representatives from the region Virginia’s legitimate governing body and allows representatives from the region
to fill seats in Congress vacated when Virginia adopted its secession ordinance.659 to fill seats in Congress vacated when Virginia adopted its secession ordinance.659
• • August 6-21, 1861: The Second Wheeling Convention reconvenes. On August The Second Wheeling Convention reconvenes. On August
20, the convention approves a proposal to create a new state of “Kanawha.”660 20, the convention approves a proposal to create a new state of “Kanawha.”660
~~• October 24, 1861: Eligible voters approve the “Ordinance to Provide for the~~
~~Formation of a New State out of a Portion of the Territory of this State,” by a~~
~~vote of 18,408 to 781.661~~
~~• November 26, 1861-February 20, 1862: Delegates meet in Wheeling to write~~
~~the constitution for the new state of Kanawha. They change the name of the new~~
~~state to West Virginia.662~~
~~• February 18, 1862: Delegates to the Constitutional Convention unanimously~~
~~approve the state constitution.663~~
~~• May 13, 1862: The General Assembly of the Restored Government of Virginia~~
~~passes an “Act of the Reorganized Government of Virginia Granting Permission~~
~~for Creation of New State.”664~~

654 26 Stat. 1552. 655 “Ordinance of Secession of the Commonwealth of Virginia,” April 17, 1861, NARA, Record Group 59, Series: Records Relating to the Virginia Ordinance of Secession, at https://catalog.archives.gov/id/598395. 656 “Proceedings of the First Wheeling Convention,” in West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History, A State of Convenience: The Creation of West Virginia, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/
wheelingconvention1toc.html. See also “First Wheeling Convention,” in wheelingconvention1toc.html. See also “First Wheeling Convention,” in State of Convenience, at , at
https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/statehood05.html, and Kevin Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/statehood05.html, and Kevin Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a
Kind,’” in Chiorazzi and Most, Kind,’” in Chiorazzi and Most, Prestatehood Legal Materials, vol. 2, pp. 1369-1386. , vol. 2, pp. 1369-1386.
657 “Ratification of the Ordinance of Secession,” in 657 “Ratification of the Ordinance of Secession,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/
statehood/statehood06.html; Richard H. Owens, statehood/statehood06.html; Richard H. Owens, Rogue State: The Unconstitutional Process of Establishing West
Virginia Statehood (Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2013), p. 19. (Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield, 2013), p. 19.
658 “First Session of the Second Wheeling Convention,” in 658 “First Session of the Second Wheeling Convention,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/, at https://archive.wvculture.org/
history/statehood/statehood07.html. history/statehood/statehood07.html.
659 Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a Kind,’” p. 1380; “Memorial of the Commissioners Appointed by the 659 Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a Kind,’” p. 1380; “Memorial of the Commissioners Appointed by the
Convention of West Virginia, Praying for the admission of that State into the Union,” Senate Misc. Doc. No. 99, 37th Convention of West Virginia, Praying for the admission of that State into the Union,” Senate Misc. Doc. No. 99, 37th
Cong., 2nd sess., May 31, 1862, p. 9. Cong., 2nd sess., May 31, 1862, p. 9.
660 “Proceedings of the Second Session of the Second Wheeling Convention,” in 660 “Proceedings of the Second Session of the Second Wheeling Convention,” in State of Convenience, at , at
https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/wheelingconvention20820.html; Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/wheelingconvention20820.html; Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a
Kind,’” p. 1380; “Ordinance to Provide for the Formation of a New State out of a Portion of the Territory of this State,” Kind,’” p. 1380; “Ordinance to Provide for the Formation of a New State out of a Portion of the Territory of this State,”
in in Virginia Compacts, Virginia General Assembly LIS, at https://law.lis.virginia.gov/compacts/virginia-west-virginia-, Virginia General Assembly LIS, at https://law.lis.virginia.gov/compacts/virginia-west-virginia-
debt-agreement-of-1861/. debt-agreement-of-1861/.
~~661 Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a Kind,’” p. 1381; “Statehood Referendum,” in State of Convenience, at~~
~~https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/statehood10.html; “Proceedings of the Second Session of the Second~~
~~Wheeling Convention,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/~~
~~wheelingconvention20820.html; Richard Orr Curry, A House Divided, Appendix III, pp. 149-150.~~
~~662 Debates and Proceedings of the First Constitutional Convention of West Virginia, 1861-1863, 3 vols. (Huntington,~~
~~WV: Gentry Brothers, [1939]).~~
~~663 First Constitutional Convention Proceedings, vol. 3, p. 449; Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a Kind,’” p. 1381.~~
~~664~~Congressional Research Service 76 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • October 24, 1861: Eligible voters approve the “Ordinance to Provide for the Formation of a New State out of a Portion of the Territory of this State,” by a vote of 18,408 to 781.661 • November 26, 1861-February 20, 1862: Delegates meet in Wheeling to write the constitution for the new state of Kanawha. They change the name of the new state to West Virginia.662 • February 18, 1862: Delegates to the Constitutional Convention unanimously approve the state constitution.663 • May 13, 1862: The General Assembly of the Restored Government of Virginia passes an “Act of the Reorganized Government of Virginia Granting Permission “Act of the Reorganized Government of Virginia Granting Permission for Creation of New State.”664~~for Creation of New State,” in~~ ~~State of~~
~~Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/rgov051362.html; Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a~~
~~Kind,’” p. 1381.~~
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• • May 29, 1862: Senator Waitman T. Willey of Virginia665 presents a petition to the Senator Waitman T. Willey of Virginia665 presents a petition to the
U.S. Senate for the admission of West Virginia to the Union.666 U.S. Senate for the admission of West Virginia to the Union.666
• • June 23, 1862: The Senate Committee on Territories reports a bill (37 S. 365) The Senate Committee on Territories reports a bill (37 S. 365)
providing for the admission of West Virginia into the Union.667 providing for the admission of West Virginia into the Union.667
• • July 14, 1862: Senate passes an amended version of the bill that includes an Senate passes an amended version of the bill that includes an
amendment to provide for gradual emancipation of slaves in West Virginia. The amendment to provide for gradual emancipation of slaves in West Virginia. The
Senate approves, by a vote of 23 to 17, West Virginia’s statehood on the Senate approves, by a vote of 23 to 17, West Virginia’s statehood on the
condition that it makes the necessary amendment to the state constitution.668 condition that it makes the necessary amendment to the state constitution.668
• • December 10, 1862: House passes the West Virginia statehood bill.669 House passes the West Virginia statehood bill.669
• • December 31, 1862: President Abraham Lincoln signs the West Virginia President Abraham Lincoln signs the West Virginia
statehood bill.670 statehood bill.670
• • February 12-20, 1863: West Virginia’s Constitutional Convention reconvenes West Virginia’s Constitutional Convention reconvenes
and approves the emancipation amendment on February 17, by a vote of 54 to and approves the emancipation amendment on February 17, by a vote of 54 to
~~zero. The convention approves the amended constitution the next day, 52 to~~
~~zero.671~~
~~• March 26, 1863: Eligible voters ratify the revised state constitution by a vote of~~
~~28,321 to 572.672~~
~~• April 20, 1863: President Lincoln issues a proclamation admitting West Virginia~~
~~into the Union.673~~
~~• June 20, 1863: West Virginia is admitted into the Union as the 35th state, 60 days~~
~~after the presidential proclamation.674~~

661 Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a Kind,’” p. 1381; “Statehood Referendum,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/statehood10.html; “Proceedings of the Second Session of the Second Wheeling Convention,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/wheelingconvention20820.html; Richard Orr Curry, A House Divided, Appendix III, pp. 149-150. 662 Debates and Proceedings of the First Constitutional Convention of West Virginia, 1861-1863, 3 vols. (Huntington, WV: Gentry Brothers, [1939]). 663 First Constitutional Convention Proceedings, vol. 3, p. 449; Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a Kind,’” p. 1381. 664 “Act of the Reorganized Government of Virginia Granting Permission for Creation of New State,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/rgov051362.html; Fredette, “West Virginia—‘One of a Kind,’” p. 1381. 665 Initially elected from the Restored Government of Virginia, he would represent West Virginia in the Senate starting 665 Initially elected from the Restored Government of Virginia, he would represent West Virginia in the Senate starting
in 1863. See “Willey, Waitman Thomas” in in 1863. See “Willey, Waitman Thomas” in Biographical Directory of the United States Congress, at , at
https://bioguide.congress.gov/search/bio/W000484. https://bioguide.congress.gov/search/bio/W000484.
666 666 Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (May 29, 1862), p. 2415. , 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (May 29, 1862), p. 2415.
667 667 Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 23, 1862), p. 2864. , 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 23, 1862), p. 2864.
668 668 Senate Journal, 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (July 14, 1862), p. 835; , 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (July 14, 1862), p. 835; Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (July 14, , 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (July 14,
1862), p. 3320. 1862), p. 3320.
669 The 669 The Congressional Globe reports the vote as 96-55, while the reports the vote as 96-55, while the House Journal reports the vote as 96-57. See reports the vote as 96-57. See
Congressional Globe, 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 10, 1862), p. 59, and , 37th Cong., 2nd sess. (December 10, 1862), p. 59, and House Journal, 37th Cong., 2nd sess. , 37th Cong., 2nd sess.
(December 10, 1862), pp. 58-59. (December 10, 1862), pp. 58-59.
670 12 Stat. 633. 670 12 Stat. 633.
~~671 “West Virginians Approve the Willey Amendment,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/~~
~~history/statehood/statehood15.html; “Votes of the Delegates on Revised Constitution,” in State of Convenience, at~~
~~https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/ccvote.html; First Constitutional Convention Proceedings, vol. 3, pp.~~
~~728 and 731.~~
~~672 “West Virginians Approve the Willey Amendment,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/~~
~~history/statehood/statehood15.html; A House Divided, pp. 150-151.~~
~~673 13 Stat. 731.~~
~~674 13 Stat. 731.~~
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Congressional Research Service 77 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide zero. The convention approves the amended constitution the next day, 52 to zero.671 • March 26, 1863: Eligible voters ratify the revised state constitution by a vote of 28,321 to 572.672 • April 20, 1863: President Lincoln issues a proclamation admitting West Virginia into the Union.673 • June 20, 1863: West Virginia is admitted into the Union as the 35th state, 60 days after the presidential proclamation.674
Wisconsin
• • September 3, 1783: The United The United
States acquires the the land that States acquires the the land that
Wisconsin: 30th State
will become Wisconsin in the will become Wisconsin in the
Wisconsin Territory created July 3, 1836 (5 Stat. 10) Wisconsin Territory created July 3, 1836 (5 Stat. 10)
Treaty of Paris.675 Treaty of Paris.675
Enabling law enacted August 6, 1846 (9 Stat. 56) Enabling law enacted August 6, 1846 (9 Stat. 56)
• •
Wisconsin admitted May 29, 1848 (9 Stat. 233) Wisconsin admitted May 29, 1848 (9 Stat. 233)
January 21, 1836: Senator John Senator John
M. Clayton of Delaware M. Clayton of Delaware
introduces 24 S. 92, a bill to create the Wisconsin Territory.676 introduces 24 S. 92, a bill to create the Wisconsin Territory.676
• • March 29, 1836: Senate passes 24 S. 92 without a recorded vote.677 Senate passes 24 S. 92 without a recorded vote.677
• • April 8, 1836: House passes an amended version of 24 S. 92 without a recorded : House passes an amended version of 24 S. 92 without a recorded
vote.678 vote.678
• • April 11, 1836: Senate concurs in two of the House’s three amendments and Senate concurs in two of the House’s three amendments and
sends 24 S. 92 back to the House without a recorded vote.679 sends 24 S. 92 back to the House without a recorded vote.679
• • April 14, 1836: House insists on its remaining amendment, sending 24 S. 92 House insists on its remaining amendment, sending 24 S. 92
back to the Senate without a recorded vote.680 back to the Senate without a recorded vote.680
~~• April 18, 1836: Senate accepts the House version of 24 S. 92 without a recorded~~
~~vote.681~~
~~• April 20, 1836: President Andrew Jackson signs 24 S. 92, creating the Wisconsin~~
~~Territory as of July 3, 1836.682~~
~~• January 13, 1846: Delegate Morgan L. Martin of Wisconsin introduces 29 H.R.~~
~~105, a bill that would enable Wisconsin residents to write a constitution and form~~
~~a government ahead of statehood.683~~
~~• June 9, 1846: House amends and passes 29 H.R. 105 without a recorded vote.684~~
~~• June 10, 1846: House votes to reconsider its vote to pass 29 H.R. 105, then~~
~~amends and passes it without a recorded vote.685~~

671 “West Virginians Approve the Willey Amendment,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/statehood15.html; “Votes of the Delegates on Revised Constitution,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/ccvote.html; First Constitutional Convention Proceedings, vol. 3, pp. 728 and 731. 672 “West Virginians Approve the Willey Amendment,” in State of Convenience, at https://archive.wvculture.org/history/statehood/statehood15.html; A House Divided, pp. 150-151. 673 13 Stat. 731. 674 13 Stat. 731. 675 Jonathan Kasparek, “The State of Wisconsin,” in Shearer, 675 Jonathan Kasparek, “The State of Wisconsin,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 3, pp. 1325-1350. , vol. 3, pp. 1325-1350.
676 676 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (January 21, 1836), p. 112; , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (January 21, 1836), p. 112; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (January , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (January
21, 1836), p. 127. 21, 1836), p. 127.
677 677 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 29, 1836), pp. 249-250; , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (March 29, 1836), pp. 249-250; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. , 24th Cong., 1st sess.
(March 29, 1836), p. 301. (March 29, 1836), p. 301.
678 678 House Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 8, 1836), pp. 649-651; , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 8, 1836), pp. 649-651; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April
8, 1836), pp. 339-341. 8, 1836), pp. 339-341.
679 679 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 11, 1836), p. 282; , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 11, 1836), p. 282; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 11, , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 11,
1836), p. 343. 1836), p. 343.
680 680 House Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 14, 1836), pp. 700-701; , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 14, 1836), pp. 700-701; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April , 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April
14, 1836), p. 359. 14, 1836), p. 359.
~~681 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 18, 1836), p. 294; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 18,~~
~~1836), p. 370.~~
~~682 5 Stat. 10.~~
~~683 House Journal, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (January 13, 1846), p. 253; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (January~~
~~13, 1846), p. 196.~~
~~684 House Journal, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (June 9, 1846), pp. 931-932; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (June 9,~~
~~1846), pp. 949-950.~~
~~685 The House’s initial vote on reconsideration was recorded in the House Journal as 127-45 and in the~~ ~~Congressional~~
~~Globe~~ ~~as 125-45. See House Journal, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (June 10, 1846), pp. 936-938, and Congressional Globe, 29th~~
~~Cong., 1st sess. (June 10, 1846), pp. 952-953.~~
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~~• August 5, 1846: Senate passes 29 H.R. 105 without a recorded vote.686~~
~~• August 6, 1846: President James K. Polk signs 29 H.R. 105, enabling Wisconsin~~
~~residents to write a constitution and form a state government.687~~
~~• October 5, 1846: Delegates gather in Madison to write a state constitution.688~~
~~• December 16, 1846: The Madison convention adjourns after completing work on~~
~~a state constitution.689~~
~~• April 6, 1847: Wisconsin voters reject ratification of the state constitution,~~
~~20,233 to 14,119.690~~
~~• December 15, 1847: Delegates gather in Madison for a second constitutional~~
~~convention.691~~
~~• February 1, 1848: Delegates at the second Madison convention approve a new~~
~~state constitution by a vote of 60 to 1.692~~
~~• March 13, 1848: Wisconsin voters ratify the new state constitution, 16,759 to~~
~~6,384.693~~
~~• April 13, 1848: Representative Caleb B. Smith of Indiana reports 30 H.R. 397, a~~
~~bill to admit Wisconsin as a state, from the House Committee on Territories.694~~
~~• May 11, 1848: House amends 30 H.R. 397 and passes it without a recorded~~
~~vote.695~~
~~• May 19, 1848: Senate passes 30 H.R. 397 without a recorded vote.696~~
~~• May 29, 1848: President Polk signs 30 H.R. 397, admitting Wisconsin into the~~
~~Union as the 30th state.697~~

Congressional Research Service 78 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • April 18, 1836: Senate accepts the House version of 24 S. 92 without a recorded vote.681 • April 20, 1836: President Andrew Jackson signs 24 S. 92, creating the Wisconsin Territory as of July 3, 1836.682 • January 13, 1846: Delegate Morgan L. Martin of Wisconsin introduces 29 H.R. 105, a bill that would enable Wisconsin residents to write a constitution and form a government ahead of statehood.683 • June 9, 1846: House amends and passes 29 H.R. 105 without a recorded vote.684 • June 10, 1846: House votes to reconsider its vote to pass 29 H.R. 105, then amends and passes it without a recorded vote.685 • August 5, 1846: Senate passes 29 H.R. 105 without a recorded vote.686 • August 6, 1846: President James K. Polk signs 29 H.R. 105, enabling Wisconsin residents to write a constitution and form a state government.687 • October 5, 1846: Delegates gather in Madison to write a state constitution.688 • December 16, 1846: The Madison convention adjourns after completing work on a state constitution.689 • April 6, 1847: Wisconsin voters reject ratification of the state constitution, 20,233 to 14,119.690 • December 15, 1847: Delegates gather in Madison for a second constitutional convention.691 • February 1, 1848: Delegates at the second Madison convention approve a new state constitution by a vote of 60 to 1.692 • March 13, 1848: Wisconsin voters ratify the new state constitution, 16,759 to 6,384.693 681 Senate Journal, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 18, 1836), p. 294; Congressional Globe, 24th Cong., 1st sess. (April 18, 1836), p. 370. 682 5 Stat. 10. 683 House Journal, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (January 13, 1846), p. 253; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (January 13, 1846), p. 196. 684 House Journal, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (June 9, 1846), pp. 931-932; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (June 9, 1846), pp. 949-950. 685 The House’s initial vote on reconsideration was recorded in the House Journal as 127-45 and in the Congressional Globe as 125-45. See House Journal, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (June 10, 1846), pp. 936-938, and Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (June 10, 1846), pp. 952-953. 686 686 Senate Journal, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (August 5, 1846), p. 482; , 29th Cong., 1st sess. (August 5, 1846), p. 482; Congressional Globe, 29th Cong., 1st sess. (August 5, , 29th Cong., 1st sess. (August 5,
1846), p. 1194. 1846), p. 1194.
687 9 Stat. 56. 687 9 Stat. 56.
688 688 Journal of the Convention to Form a Constitution for the State of Wisconsin: Begun and Held at Madison, on the
Fifth Day of October, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Forty-Six (Madison, WI: Beriah Brown, 1847), p. 3. (Madison, WI: Beriah Brown, 1847), p. 3.
689 689 Journal of the Convention to Form a Constitution for the State of Wisconsin (1847), p. 477. (1847), p. 477.
690 Jack Stark, 690 Jack Stark, The Wisconsin State Constitution: A Reference Guide (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1997), p. 4. (Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 1997), p. 4.
691 691 Journal of the Convention to Form a Constitution for the State of Wisconsin, With a Sketch of the Debates, Begun
and Held at Madison, on the Fifteenth Day of December, Eighteen Hundred and Forty-Seven (Madison, WI: Tenney, (Madison, WI: Tenney,
Smith & Holt, 1848), p. 3. Smith & Holt, 1848), p. 3.
692 692 Journal of the Convention to Form a Constitution for the State of Wisconsin (1848), p. 599. (1848), p. 599.
693 Stark, 693 Stark, Wisconsin State Constitution, p. 8. , p. 8.
~~694 House Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (April 13, 1848), p. 677; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (April 13,~~
~~1848), p. 623.~~
~~695 House Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (May 11, 1848), pp. 787-789; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (May~~
~~11, 1848), pp. 754-755.~~
~~696 Senate Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (May 19, 1848), p. 351; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (May 19,~~
~~1848), p. 785.~~
~~697 9 Stat. 233.~~
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Congressional Research Service 79 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • April 13, 1848: Representative Caleb B. Smith of Indiana reports 30 H.R. 397, a bill to admit Wisconsin as a state, from the House Committee on Territories.694 • May 11, 1848: House amends 30 H.R. 397 and passes it without a recorded vote.695 • May 19, 1848: Senate passes 30 H.R. 397 without a recorded vote.696 • May 29, 1848: President Polk signs 30 H.R. 397, admitting Wisconsin into the Union as the 30th state.697
Wyoming
• • February 2, 1848: The United States, The United States,
in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo,
Wyoming: 44th State
acquires from Mexico part of the land acquires from Mexico part of the land
Wyoming Territory created July 25, 1868 (15 Stat. 178) Wyoming Territory created July 25, 1868 (15 Stat. 178)
that will become Wyoming , adding to that will become Wyoming , adding to
Wyoming admitted July 10, 1890 (26 Stat. 222) Wyoming admitted July 10, 1890 (26 Stat. 222)
territory acquired earlier in the territory acquired earlier in the
Louisiana Purchase of 1803, the annexation of Texas in 1845, and the Oregon Louisiana Purchase of 1803, the annexation of Texas in 1845, and the Oregon
Treaty of 1846.698 Treaty of 1846.698
• • February 13, 1868: Senator Richard Yates of Illinois introduces 40 S. 357, a bill Senator Richard Yates of Illinois introduces 40 S. 357, a bill
to create the Wyoming Territory.699 to create the Wyoming Territory.699
• • June 3, 1868: Senate amends 40 S. 357 and passes it without a recorded vote.700 Senate amends 40 S. 357 and passes it without a recorded vote.700
• • July 22, 1868: House passes 40 S. 357 by a 106-50 vote.701 House passes 40 S. 357 by a 106-50 vote.701
• • July 25, 1868: President Andrew Johnson signs 40 S. 357, creating the Wyoming President Andrew Johnson signs 40 S. 357, creating the Wyoming
Territory.702 Territory.702
• • June 3, 1889: Territorial Governor Francis E. Warren sets a July election for Territorial Governor Francis E. Warren sets a July election for
delegates to a constitutional convention that will meet in Cheyenne.703 delegates to a constitutional convention that will meet in Cheyenne.703
• • September 2, 1889: Delegates gather in Cheyenne to write a state constitution.704 Delegates gather in Cheyenne to write a state constitution.704
~~• September 30, 1889: Delegates at the Cheyenne convention vote 37-0 to adopt a~~
~~state constitution for Wyoming.705~~
~~• November 5, 1889: Wyoming voters ratify the new state constitution, 6,272 to~~
~~1,923.706~~
~~• December 18, 1889: Delegate Joseph M. Carey of Wyoming introduces 51 H.R.~~
~~982, a bill to admit Wyoming as a state.707~~
~~• March 26, 1890: House amends and passes 51 H.R. 982 by a 139-127 vote.708~~
~~• June 27, 1890: Senate amends and passes 51 H.R. 982 by a 29-18 vote.709~~

694 House Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (April 13, 1848), p. 677; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (April 13, 1848), p. 623. 695 House Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (May 11, 1848), pp. 787-789; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (May 11, 1848), pp. 754-755. 696 Senate Journal, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (May 19, 1848), p. 351; Congressional Globe, 30th Cong., 1st sess. (May 19, 1848), p. 785. 697 9 Stat. 233. 698 Phil Roberts, “The State of Wyoming,” in Shearer, 698 Phil Roberts, “The State of Wyoming,” in Shearer, Uniting States, vol. 3, pp. 1351-1378. , vol. 3, pp. 1351-1378.
699 699 Senate Journal, 40th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 13, 1868), p. 185; , 40th Cong., 2nd sess. (February 13, 1868), p. 185; Congressional Globe, 40th Cong., 2nd sess. , 40th Cong., 2nd sess.
(February 13, 1868), p. 1143. (February 13, 1868), p. 1143.
700 700 Senate Journal, 40th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 3, 1868), p. 450; , 40th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 3, 1868), p. 450; Congressional Globe, 40th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 3, , 40th Cong., 2nd sess. (June 3,
1868), p. 2802. 1868), p. 2802.
701 701 House Journal, 40th Cong., 2nd sess. (July 22, 1868), pp. 1150-1151; , 40th Cong., 2nd sess. (July 22, 1868), pp. 1150-1151; Congressional Globe, 40th Cong., 2nd sess. , 40th Cong., 2nd sess.
(July 22, 1868), p. 4345. (July 22, 1868), p. 4345.
702 15 Stat. 178. 702 15 Stat. 178.
703 “Proclamation by the Governor,” in 703 “Proclamation by the Governor,” in Report of the Governor of Wyoming to the Secretary of the Interior, 1889, by , by
Francis E. Warren (Washington: GPO, 1889), pp. 123-124. Francis E. Warren (Washington: GPO, 1889), pp. 123-124.
704 704 Journal and Debates of the Constitutional Convention of the State of Wyoming (Cheyenne, WY: The Daily Sun, (Cheyenne, WY: The Daily Sun,
Book and Job Printing, 1893), p. 3. Book and Job Printing, 1893), p. 3.
Congressional Research Service 80 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide • September 30, 1889: Delegates at the Cheyenne convention vote 37-0 to adopt a state constitution for Wyoming.705 • November 5, 1889: Wyoming voters ratify the new state constitution, 6,272 to 1,923.706 • December 18, 1889: Delegate Joseph M. Carey of Wyoming introduces 51 H.R. 982, a bill to admit Wyoming as a state.707 • March 26, 1890: House amends and passes 51 H.R. 982 by a 139-127 vote.708 • June 27, 1890: Senate amends and passes 51 H.R. 982 by a 29-18 vote.709 • July 8, 1890: House passes the Senate-amended version of 51 H.R. 982 without a recorded vote.710 • July 10, 1890: President Benjamin Harrison signs 51 H.R. 982, admitting Wyoming into the Union as the 44th state.711 Author Information Ben Leubsdorf Carol Wilson Research Librarian Senior Research Librarian Kathleen E. Marchsteiner Senior Research Librarian 705 705 Journal and Debates of the Constitutional Convention of the State of Wyoming, p. 863. , p. 863.
706 Warren, 706 Warren, Report of the Governor of Wyoming to the Secretary of the Interior, 1890 (Washington: GPO, 1890), p. 14. (Washington: GPO, 1890), p. 14.
707 707 House Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (December 18, 1889), p. 41; , 51st Cong., 1st sess. (December 18, 1889), p. 41; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 1 (December , vol. 21, part 1 (December
18, 1889), pp. 261-262. 18, 1889), pp. 261-262.
708 708 House Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (March 26, 1890), pp. 391-392; , 51st Cong., 1st sess. (March 26, 1890), pp. 391-392; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 3 (March , vol. 21, part 3 (March
26, 1890), pp. 2711-2712. 26, 1890), pp. 2711-2712.
709 709 Senate Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (June 27, 1890), p. 400; , 51st Cong., 1st sess. (June 27, 1890), p. 400; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 7 (June 27, 1890), , vol. 21, part 7 (June 27, 1890),
p. 6589. p. 6589.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

81

~~Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide~~

~~• July 8, 1890: House passes the Senate-amended version of 51 H.R. 982 without~~
~~a recorded vote.710~~
~~• July 10, 1890: President Benjamin Harrison signs 51 H.R. 982, admitting~~
~~Wyoming into the Union as the 44th state.711~~

~~Author Information~~

~~Ben Leubsdorf~~
~~Carol Wilson~~
~~Research Librarian~~
~~Senior Research Librarian~~

~~Kathleen E. Marchsteiner~~

~~Senior Research Librarian~~

710 House Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (July 8, 1890), p. 833; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 7 (July 8, 1890), p. 7034. 711 26 Stat. 222. Congressional Research Service 81 Admission of States to the Union: A Historical Reference Guide

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~~710 House Journal, 51st Cong., 1st sess. (July 8, 1890), p. 833; Congressional Record, vol. 21, part 7 (July 8, 1890), p.~~
~~7034.~~
~~711 26 Stat. 222.~~
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