You Won't Believe What This Tiny State Did to Pennsylvania in 1776 (It's Not What You Think)
Ah, history! A subject filled with fascinating tales of brave revolutionaries, dramatic battles, and...well, sometimes some awkward family squabbles. Buckle up, history buffs (and those who just enjoy a good underdog story) because we're about to dive into a lesser-known moment from the American Revolution that involves a state so small, some folks might miss it on a map.
What State Was Declared Independence From Pennsylvania In June 1776 |
The Big Breakup: Pennsylvania Who?
We all know the story, or at least the gist: the 13 colonies throw off the shackles of British rule, declare their independence, and bam! The United States of America is born. But wait, what if I told you there was a little pre-independence drama happening within the colonies themselves?
Enter Delaware. Yes, that very same Delaware famous for...uh...tax-free shopping? Well, back in 1776, Delaware wasn't even really a "state" yet, but it had some serious independence aspirations brewing. You see, Delaware, which was then known as the Three Lower Counties of Pennsylvania, had some long-standing grievances with its big brother, Pennsylvania. Taxes were too high, representation in government wasn't fair, and let's be honest, Pennsylvania just has a way of hogging the spotlight.
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June 15th, 1776: A Declaration of Their Own
So, while the rest of the colonies were busy wrestling with the whole "breaking away from Britain" thing, Delaware decided to take matters a step further. On June 15th, 1776, they declared independence...from Pennsylvania! That's right, they basically said, "We're out! You can keep your high taxes and bossy ways, Pennsylvania. We're gonna go be our own tiny, independent colony...or maybe a state, we're still figuring that out."
This bold move made Delaware the first colony to formally separate from another on the road to independence. Pretty impressive for a state that could fit comfortably within most city limits these days.
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The Rest of the Story (Spoiler Alert: It Ends Well...Ish)
Now, the story doesn't end there. Delaware eventually joined the whole "independence from Britain" movement a few days later, officially becoming the first state to ratify the Constitution. Pennsylvania, well, they got over it eventually. Probably realized they couldn't exactly blame Delaware for wanting a little more breathing room.
So next time you hear about the American Revolution, remember the little state that could (declare independence twice). Delaware, we salute you!
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FAQ: Delaware's Big Week in 1776
How to declare independence from your annoying neighbor (but seriously, don't): Not recommended. There's a reason international borders are a thing.
How to become your own state: This one's a toughy. Involves a lot of legal wrangling and convincing Congress you're worthy of statehood. Probably easier to just move.
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How big is Delaware? Tiny. Like, really tiny. You could probably drive across it in a few hours.
What's Delaware famous for? Besides its brief moment of revolutionary defiance? Tax-free shopping, as mentioned earlier. Also, they have a pretty sweet peach blossom festival every spring.
Should I visit Delaware? Absolutely! It's a charming state with a rich history. Just don't expect a bustling metropolis.