Vive La Vermont Republic!

[BlackMage]

It's a little remarked upon fact, in my experience, that of all the North American nations that are such staples of the genre (New England, Texas, Deseret, California, etc, etc), Vermont is both one of the least-remarked upon and the one which remained independent the longest.

Of course, at the time, no one actually recognised that Vermont existed (since New Hampshire and New York were interested in dividing the state up amongst themselves), but from 1777 to 1791 they made their own money, had an independent political system and even had talks with the UK about coming back under their rule. Of course, once New York and New Hampshire gave up their claims to territory, Vermont almost instantly joined the US.

So, what if Vermont hadn't joined the US? Would we see a military annexation by the US? Vermont rejoining the British Empire? Or, most interestingly, Vermont simply remaining independent? What consequences would come of this?

 

[Keenir]

So, what if Vermont hadn't joined the US? Would we see a military annexation by the US? Vermont rejoining the British Empire? Or, most interestingly, Vermont simply remaining independent? What consequences would come of this?

in 1812 or sooner, the US would invade and annex the whole area of Vermont - whether its independent or British.

 

[rowmaster]

A few European Nations recognized it, most notably the Dutch

 

[Farnham]

I agree with Keenir. Once (during the Revolution I think) George Washington himself wondered if the Americans would need to send troops to overthrow the Vermont government.
If Vermont didn't join the US of its own volition, the US would have eventually occupied it, especially if the talk of Vermont joining Canada or returning to British colony status got very serious.

 

[Wendell]

Vermont might have stayed free, or fallen during something silly. Suppose that it actually grew, and managed to survive due to the Hartford Convention working.

 

[Burton K Wheeler]

Why is there an independent Texas in every TL, even though OTL Texas never had any particular desire for independence, and never an independent West Florida?

 

[rowmaster]

This reminds me of a nut we had on OTL.com once who wanted Vermont to become its own nation...

 

[BlackMage]

Why is there an independent Texas in every TL, even though OTL Texas never had any particular desire for independence, and never an independent West Florida?

Just a matter of interest, I guess. After all, Texas had factionalised politics, several elections, existed for 9 years and had abundant natural resources and possibilities, while West Florida existed for 30 days under one man. Still, I suppose California has its share of independent TLs when it existed just as long, so I guess it's just low levels of knowledge and popularity.

 

[BlackMage]

This reminds me of a nut we had on OTL.com once who wanted Vermont to become its own nation...

Ah, yes, the Second Vermont Republic. Probably the only group in the world which trumpets the fact that 8% of the population supports their cause in theory as a political triumph. I've got quite a fondness for them, though; they're like steam train enthusiasts or tartan fanciers, except slightly more political.

 

[Farnham]

Ah, yes, the Second Vermont Republic. Probably the only group in the world which trumpets the fact that 8% of the population supports their cause in theory as a political triumph. I've got quite a fondness for them, though; they're like steam train enthusiasts or tartan fanciers, except slightly more political.

Yeah, they are likeable in a quirky way. What I get a kick out of is that the secessionist people there seem somewhat conservative politically.
Even if Vermont was independent the SVR guys would drown in blue votes.

 

[fhaessig]

Ah, yes, the Second Vermont Republic. Probably the only group in the world which trumpets the fact that 8% of the population supports their cause in theory as a political triumph. I've got quite a fondness for them, though; they're like steam train enthusiasts or tartan fanciers, except slightly more political.

ACtually not the only one. The corsican independantists do the same. Well, OK, they have a grand total 9% which are for or in sympathy, so there's a difference

 

[David S Poepoe]

Why is there an independent Texas in every TL, even though OTL Texas never had any particular desire for independence, and never an independent West Florida?

Actually you are wrong, there was a movement in Texas to remain independent. Unfortunately, the economics never quite enough to keep the Texan Government solvent.

I've never been sure about West Florida.

 

[Tyr]

True the US would have attacked- perhaps if it gets under the British umbrella we could protect it though?
Or at the very least kick America around a bit after they have occupied it so they are forced to let it go in the peace.