Also spurned by a bit of confusion, how could the British Empire take over an independant CSA and turn it into a Dominion or a Protectorate. Even a conquered colony like parts of Africa.
I thought about this once, and it seems highly unlikely, but I'll give it a try...
-In 1864, the Confederacy is on its way out. The British, fearing that the US will discover the support they gave the CSA (larger than in OTL, actual volunteers) and assail Canada, declare war on the US, alling with the CSA. The British support reinvigorates the CSA, and crushes the US. The result of the treaty that ends the war gives the British the Oregon Territory, Northern Maine, that Upper Michigan area, and grants the CSA "independence". The CSA, however, is forced to attach itself financially, and later politically, to the British Empire...
Anyone else have an idea?