The Lost State of Franklin
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cdteliot
5 min read
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The State of Franklin, a short-lived independent entity that existed from 1784 to 1789 in present-day eastern Tennessee, emerged as a fascinating chapter in early American history, highlighting the complex relationship between frontier communities and the newly formed United States. As reported by the Smithsonian Magazine, Franklin's brief existence as an autonomous state, complete with its own treaties and alliances, underscores the uncertain nature of the early Union and the challenges faced by western settlers in the aftermath of the American Revolution.
Post-Revolutionary War Context
pbs.org
In the aftermath of the American Revolutionary War, the newly independent United States faced significant challenges in managing its vast western territories and establishing a stable government. The Articles of Confederation, which served as the nation's first constitution, granted limited powers to the federal government, leading to economic instability and political disunity among the states
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. North Carolina, like other states, claimed extensive western lands stretching to the Mississippi River. This territorial expansion created tensions with Native American tribes, particularly the Cherokee, who had their own claims to these lands3
. The weak central government under the Articles of Confederation struggled to effectively negotiate with foreign powers and enforce treaties, complicating efforts to secure and govern these western territories1
. These challenges set the stage for conflicts and political maneuvering in frontier regions, such as the area that would become the short-lived State of Franklin in eastern Tennessee.5 sources
State of Franklin's Formation and Cession Conflict
dncr.nc.gov
The formation of the State of Franklin was precipitated by North Carolina's decision to cede its western lands to the federal government in June 1784, in compliance with the Ordinance of 1784 and to help alleviate the nation's war debt
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. This action left the western settlers feeling neglected and concerned about potential anarchy and Indian attacks2
. In response, delegates from Greene, Sullivan, and Washington Counties met in Jonesborough on August 23-24, 1784, unanimously declaring their independence2
. However, North Carolina repealed its cession bill in October-November 1784, creating tension with the newly formed state2
. The Franklin movement gained momentum, and on December 14, 1784, delegates convened in Jonesborough for the First Constitutional Convention, passing a constitution by a 28 to 15 vote2
. The state was named after Benjamin Franklin, likely in hopes of garnering his support and that of the U.S. Congress4
. Despite these efforts, the State of Franklin was never formally admitted to the union and faced ongoing challenges during its brief five-year existence3
.5 sources
Governance and Statehood Struggles
tennesseeencyclopedi...
The State of Franklin's governance faced significant challenges during its brief existence from 1784 to 1789. John Sevier, a prominent frontiersman and military leader, was elected as the state's only governor in March 1785
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2
. Under Sevier's leadership, the Franklin government established courts, levied taxes, and attempted to negotiate land cessions with the Cherokee, though these treaties lacked official recognition2
. Despite efforts to gain statehood, Franklin's petition to Congress fell short of the required two-thirds majority2
. The state's legitimacy was further undermined by North Carolina's refusal to recognize its independence, leading to a complex situation of dual governance where some settlers adhered to Franklin's laws while others remained loyal to North Carolina1
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. This political uncertainty, coupled with internal dissension and increasing hostilities with the Cherokee, ultimately contributed to the collapse of the State of Franklin in 17882
.5 sources
Franklin's Treaties with the Cherokee
unionrealty.com
The State of Franklin's relationship with the Cherokee was complex and fraught with tension, as evidenced by their attempts at treaty-making. In 1785, the Franklinites negotiated the Dumplin Creek Treaty with the Cherokee, which ceded lands to the settlers
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. However, this agreement was soon superseded by the Treaty of Hopewell, signed on November 28, 1785, between the United States and the Cherokee1
. This national-level treaty, which included William Blount representing North Carolina, effectively nullified Franklin's earlier agreement and redrew boundaries, placing much of Franklin's claimed territory, including its capital Greeneville, within Cherokee lands1
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. The Treaty of Hopewell's terms were particularly galling to the Franklinites, as it threatened to displace hundreds of settler families and allowed the Cherokee to "punish" those who refused to leave3
. This conflict over treaty authority and land rights further strained relations between the State of Franklin, the Cherokee, and the U.S. government, highlighting the precarious position of frontier settlements in early American diplomacy.5 sources
The State of Franklin: Internal Conflicts and the Road to Dissolution
unionrealty.com
The State of Franklin's decline and dissolution were marked by internal conflicts, external pressures, and economic challenges. By 1786, support for the movement began to wane as North Carolina offered pardons and tax remissions to encourage reintegration
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. John Tipton emerged as a leader of the anti-Franklin faction, intensifying the conflict with John Sevier and his supporters2
. The situation deteriorated further in 1788 when Tipton seized Sevier's slaves, leading to a violent confrontation between their factions1
. As Cherokee attacks increased and laws went unenforced, the state's authority crumbled1
. The final blow came in June 1789 when the new U.S. Constitution replaced the Articles of Confederation, and North Carolina ceded its western lands to the federal government1
. This effectively ended Franklin's existence, with the area becoming part of the Southwest Territory and eventually the State of Tennessee1
.5 sources
The Holston Constitution: Franklin's Governing Document
tennesseehistory.org
The Holston Constitution, adopted by the State of Franklin in 1785, served as the fledgling state's governing document. Modeled closely after North Carolina's constitution, it established a framework for Franklin's government while reflecting the frontier society's values and concerns. The constitution provided for a bicameral legislature consisting of a Senate and House of Commons, with property requirements for both legislators and voters
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. It also established a system of checks and balances, separating the legislative, executive, and judicial powers5
. Notably, the Holston Constitution reduced property requirements for political participation compared to North Carolina's constitution, making government more accessible to frontier settlers5
. This document, while short-lived, represented the Franklinites' aspirations for self-governance and their adaptation of established political structures to their unique circumstances on the American frontier.5 sources
The Lasting Legacy of the State of Franklin
amazon.com
The legacy of the State of Franklin extends far beyond its brief existence, shaping both the formation of Tennessee and the broader narrative of American frontier politics. In 1796, the territory that once comprised Franklin became part of the newly admitted State of Tennessee, with John Sevier serving as its first governor
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. The Franklin episode significantly influenced the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, particularly Article IV, which outlines the process for forming new states2
. This constitutional provision was a direct response to the challenges posed by Franklin's bid for statehood. The story of Franklin continues to captivate historians and locals alike, serving as a powerful reminder of the complexities of early American governance and the determination of frontier settlers. Today, the legacy of Franklin lives on in local memorials, museums, and even merchandise in places like Jonesborough, Tennessee, where visitors can still explore this fascinating chapter of American history1
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.5 sources
Related
How did the State of Franklin influence the formation of the U.S. Constitution
What were the key events leading to the Battle of Franklin
How did the State of Franklin's attempt at self-governance reflect broader American political sentiments of the time
What was the reaction of Benjamin Franklin to the State of Franklin's declaration
How did the State of Franklin's relationship with the Overhill Cherokee develop and evolve
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