Video: 'The 36th Star: Nevada's Journey from Territory to State'

(Monday, October 31, 1864; eight days before the presidential election of 1864, during the American Civil War) — Nevada, a landlocked state in the Western region of the United States, was officially admitted to the Union as the 36th state today, a significant moment in American history as the Civil War rages on.

President Abraham Lincoln signed the proclamation of statehood, adding the sparsely populated territory to the Union in a strategic move to bolster support for the war effort and ensure victory in his bid for re-election.

The new state, carved from the western frontier, is rich in mineral resources, particularly silver, which has played a key role in supporting the Union’s finances during the war.

Known as the “Silver State” and now proudly “Battle Born,” Nevada’s swift journey to statehood reflects both its economic importance and its loyalty to the Union cause.

The final push for statehood came after Nevada voters approved a constitution earlier this year, following the act of Congress in March 1864 that authorized the formation of the state.

With the November presidential election fast approaching and Lincoln facing a challenging political climate, Nevada’s admission strengthens Union numbers in Congress and provides additional electoral votes in support of Lincoln’s re-election.

“Though small in population, Nevada’s wealth and loyalty are mighty,” said a spokesman for the Lincoln administration. “The people of Nevada have proved themselves faithful to the cause of liberty and Union, and this statehood is a reward for that devotion.”

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The admission of Nevada marks a critical moment for the nation as it continues to grapple with the devastating conflict between North and South. With the war nearing its fourth year, Nevada’s entry is a timely reinforcement for the Union, both politically and economically.

While celebrations in the new state have been modest due to the war, many in Carson City and surrounding towns expressed pride in their state’s role in helping preserve the Union. Miners, ranchers, and settlers have long hoped for statehood, and today’s proclamation fulfills that dream.

“I never thought we’d see this day, but here we are, citizens of the United States,” said one miner in Virginia City. “Our silver’s been helping the Union cause, and now we’re officially part of it.”

Nevada’s constitution, which prohibits slavery, reflects its alignment with Lincoln’s policies and the broader goals of the Union. State leaders hope the wealth of the Comstock Lode and other silver mines will continue to support the federal government as it presses on toward victory in the war.

Despite its remote location and small population—estimated at fewer than 40,000—Nevada’s admission underscores the importance of its mineral wealth and the loyalty of its settlers. Statehood will provide representation in Congress and greater influence over its own affairs as the territory grows.

As the nation moves toward what many hope will be the end of the Civil War, Nevada’s entry stands as a beacon of Union strength and determination. The new state, forged in the fires of war, joins the Union at a critical moment, its future intertwined with the fate of the country itself.