The Proposed State of Jefferson
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The State of Jefferson, a proposed 51st state encompassing parts of rural Northern California and Southern Oregon, represents a long-standing secessionist movement driven by residents who feel politically and economically neglected by their state governments. As reported by the Oregon Encyclopedia, this concept dates back to the mid-19th century, with the most notable effort occurring in 1941 when frustrated locals briefly declared independence before the movement was halted by the Pearl Harbor attack.
Historical Background
Proposed U.S. state spanning southern Oregon and Northern California
Total Area
217,005 km^2^ (83,786 sq mi)
Population
3,138,324
Rank in Area
14th (hypothetical)
1859oregonmagazine.c...
The concept of creating a separate state in the region emerged in the 1850s, shortly after California achieved statehood. Various names were proposed over the years, including the State of Shasta, the Jackson Territory, and the State of Siskiyou
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. The most significant effort occurred in 1941 when residents, angered by poor road conditions and lack of infrastructure, declared the formation of the State of Jefferson. This movement gained national attention, with Judge John L. Childs elected as governor and armed citizens manning roadblocks on Highway 992
. However, the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, abruptly halted the secession effort as the nation unified for the war3
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.3 sources
Modern Resurgence
opb.org
In recent years, the State of Jefferson movement has experienced a resurgence. A significant milestone occurred in 2013 when the Siskiyou County Board of Supervisors voted 4-1 to begin the process of secession from California
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. This action sparked renewed interest in the concept, with several other Northern California counties forming committees to support the secession plan. The modern movement cites grievances such as lack of representation in state legislatures, insufficient attention to local issues like water rights, and opposition to rural fire prevention fees1
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. Additionally, the 2016 presidential election highlighted the growing political divide between the proposed Jefferson area and the rest of California and Oregon, further fueling separatist sentiments3
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Political and Economic Considerations
geocurrents.info
Supporters argue that forming a new state would allow for better governance and more attention to local issues, while critics contend that Jefferson would face significant economic challenges due to its rural nature and lack of high-income industries
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. The proposed state would span approximately 190,768 km² and have a population of around 2,313,9582
. Economically, proponents cite a 2014 Legislative Analysis Office report suggesting the region could be viable as its own state, with potential profits from better utilization of Northern California's forests and natural resources3
. However, the movement faces substantial political hurdles, including the need for approval from state legislatures and the U.S. Congress, as mandated by Article IV, Section 3 of the Constitution4
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.5 sources
Cultural Identity
oregonlive.com
Despite political and economic challenges, the State of Jefferson has become a significant part of the regional identity. Symbols like the Jefferson flag, featuring a gold mining pan with two "X"s symbolizing the feeling of being double-crossed by state governments, are commonly displayed in the area
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. The movement has inspired local businesses and media to adopt the name, such as Jefferson Public Radio, which serves the region2
. This cultural identity extends beyond political aspirations, representing a shared sense of rugged individualism and self-sufficiency among residents who often feel disconnected from their state capitals3
.3 sources
Related
What are the cultural symbols most associated with the State of Jefferson
How does the State of Jefferson movement reflect the values of its residents
In what ways has the State of Jefferson movement been used to attract tourism
How has the State of Jefferson movement influenced local education systems
What are some notable cultural events unique to the State of Jefferson region
