Border States: Divided During the Civil War
Exploring the states caught in the middle Grade 5 Social Studies 1861-1865
What Were the Border States?
States that stayed in the Union but had slavery Located between the North and South Delaware, Maryland, Kentucky, and Missouri West Virginia joined later in 1863
Think About It
Why do you think these states were called 'Border States'? What challenges might families face if their state was divided?
Delaware: The First State's Choice
Smallest border state Had few enslaved people compared to other border states Strong business ties to the North Never seriously considered joining the Confederacy
Maryland: Surrounding the Capital
Surrounded Washington, D.C. Had strong Southern sympathies in some areas President Lincoln took strong action to keep it in the Union Baltimore had riots early in the war
Kentucky: Deeply Divided
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Missouri: The Show-Me State's Struggle
Had a pro-Confederate government and pro-Union citizens Experienced guerrilla warfare throughout the war Two rival governments claimed to represent the state Scene of many violent conflicts
Border States Challenge
Work with a partner Match each border state with its key fact Delaware - Smallest border state Maryland - Surrounded Washington D.C. Kentucky - Tried to stay neutral Missouri - Had two rival governments
President Lincoln's Words
'I hope to have God on my side, but I must have Kentucky.' - Abraham Lincoln
Why Border States Mattered
Provided soldiers and supplies to the Union Kept important transportation routes open Prevented the Confederacy from surrounding Washington D.C. Showed that not all slave states supported the Confederacy