Tennessee Secedes from the Union

On June 8, 1861, Tennessee became the 11th and final state to secede from the Union during the American Civil War. This decision marked a significant moment in the conflict, as Tennessee was a crucial border state with strategic importance due to its location and resources.

Context Leading to Secession

• Political Climate: The election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860 heightened tensions between Northern and Southern states, primarily over the issues of slavery and states’ rights. Southern states began seceding from the Union shortly after Lincoln’s election, starting with South Carolina in December 1860.

• Tennessee’s Initial Hesitation: Initially, Tennessee was hesitant to secede. The state had strong economic ties to the North and a significant Unionist population, particularly in the eastern part of the state. In February 1861, a statewide referendum on secession was held, and the majority voted against it.

• Shift in Sentiment: The situation changed after the Confederate attack on Fort Sumter in April 1861 and Lincoln’s subsequent call for troops to suppress the rebellion. This call to arms was perceived by many Tennesseans as an act of aggression against the Southern states, swaying public opinion towards secession.

The Decision to Secede

• Governor Isham G. Harris: A staunch supporter of the Confederacy, Governor Harris played a pivotal role in pushing for secession. He called for a second referendum, emphasizing the need to align with the Confederacy for the state’s protection and interests.

• June 8, 1861 Referendum: On this date, Tennessee held a second referendum, and the majority voted in favor of secession. The vote was heavily influenced by the state’s western and middle regions, which were more aligned with Confederate sympathies compared to the Unionist-leaning eastern region.

Aftermath and Significance

• Strategic Importance: Tennessee’s secession was significant due to its geographical location, which included vital rivers and railroads crucial for movement and supply lines. The state’s resources and manpower were also valuable to the Confederate war effort.

• Internal Division: Despite the official secession, Tennessee remained internally divided. East Tennessee, in particular, harbored strong Unionist sentiments, leading to internal conflicts and guerrilla warfare throughout the war.

• Military Engagements: Tennessee became a major battleground during the Civil War, hosting significant battles such as the Battle of Shiloh and the Battle of Chattanooga. The state’s strategic locations were fiercely contested by both Union and Confederate forces.

• Rejoining the Union: Tennessee was the first state to be readmitted to the Union after the Civil War, on July 24, 1866, following the ratification of the 14th Amendment and the end of Reconstruction efforts in the state.

Tennessee’s secession and its role in the Civil War highlight the complex interplay of regional loyalties, economic interests, and political pressures that characterized the era. The state’s experience during the war reflects the broader national struggle over unity and division.