Nevada admitted as 36th US state.

Nevada holds a significant place in history, having joined the Union as the 36th state on October 31, 1864. It was a momentous occasion that marked a transitional period in the nation’s history. The event took place during the turbulence of the Civil War and was instrumental in securing the re-election of President Abraham Lincoln. This article sheds light on the historical significance of Nevada becoming the 36th US state.

Nevada, known as the Silver State, was originally a part of the Utah Territory. After the discovery of the Comstock Lode in 1859, which was the largest silver deposit in the history of the US, the population increased remarkably. This rapid population growth along with mounting political pressures led to Nevada’s quest for statehood.

It’s important to note the socio-political contexts that expedited Nevada’s admission into the Union. In 1864, the US was neck-deep in the Civil War. President Abraham Lincoln needed additional votes to pass the 13th Amendment, which was to abolish slavery. At the same time, he was seeking his own re-election and needed the support of another Republican-leaning state. Nevada, which was populated by many northern prospectors and miners, could provide both. This is why, despite its relatively low population, Nevada was rushed into statehood.

As for the processes leading to Nevada’s admission, they were remarkably expedited due to the urgencies of the Civil War. Normally, a territory would have to draft a state constitution, submit it to Congress, and after approval, re-draft and ratify it in a public vote before becoming a state. However, these steps were hastened for Nevada.

The entire Nevada State Constitution was sent to Washington D.C via telegraph, marking a historical feat in communication technology at the time. It ended up being the longest telegraph transmission ever made—a massive 16,543 words in Morse code. Expediting traditional procedures, on October 31, 1864, Nevada was proclaimed a state by President Abraham Lincoln, just eight days prior to his re-election.

After its admission, Nevada went on to significantly contribute to the economic development of the US. The vast deposits of silver in Nevada were beneficial for the nation, particularly during the economy’s transition from a wartime economy to a peacetime one. Moreover, substantial mining activities attracted labor, encouraged the creation of infrastructure, and boosted other industries such as railroads and agriculture.

In addition, the state of Nevada has a unique cultural heritage and is a melting pot of diverse backgrounds, reflecting the very essence of America. Its lifestyle and liberal laws have made it one of the most renowned states in the US, often associated with gambling, entertainment, and hospitality industries.

To wrap up, the admission of Nevada as the 36th US state on October 31, 1864, was a significant event in the history of the United States. Its implication extended beyond expanding the political boundaries of the nation; it affected the outcome of the Civil War, played a role in abolishing slavery, and fueled economic growth. The interesting journey of Nevada from a sparsely populated western territory to becoming a vivacious state offers a fascinating glimpse into American history. As we recall the day of Nevada’s statehood, we are reminded of its essential role in shaping the United States as we know it today.