The history of Van Buren for new residents
Why Arkansas' History Should Matter To New Residents
Arkansas stands as one of the most unique states to participate in the US Civil War, the newly formed state is among the only territories that produced soldiers for both the Union as well as the Confederacy. Even at the beginning of the conflict Arkansas' allegiance was split, while several states sought to form a new government around the new Confederate Constitution, Arkansas held steadfast with their Union brethren voting to remain in the Union rather than succeeding. Their initial position would change drastically following Lincoln's capture of Fort Sumter, Arkansas held a secession convention hosted by prominent community members and leaders to discuss the ongoing issue of states leaving the Union. The convention was made up mostly of residents with strong unionist sentiments, showing the reluctance with which Arkansas faced the inevitable conflict that would tear a young nation apart. Several factors like surrounding states, political alliances, and its proximity to the Mason-Dixon Line would point to a Confederacy stronghold but in reality, the natural state had to deal with internal as well as external turmoil when deciding whether or not to succeed.
Forgotten History
Ultimately, Arkansas would join the Confederacy in 1861 raising more than 60 regiments of militia to aid the Confederacy's war effort. The new nation would be thrust into a four-year-long conflict that would end up being the bloodiest in the country's history to date. The memories from a conflict as impactful as the Civil War can still be seen in the states that participated in it. From large battlefields to statues of great figures, the effects of America's deadliest conflict are felt around the country and Arkansas is no different. More than a dozen Civil War battles took place in and surrounding Arkansas, soldiers started with small-scale rebellions, such as attacking arsenals following the taking of Fort Sumpter.
Civil War
The Confederacy would see early success against the Union despite their inferior number, equipment, and training. General Robert E Lee was appointed to lead the Confederacy's war effort due to his reputation as a military genius despite his political shortcomings and well-documented issues with Confederate President Jefferson Davis. The new Confederate States were formed with the stated intention of preserving their states, the institution of slavery, and decreasing federal authority. The four-year-long conflict would come to an end following the reelection of President Lincoln and Sherman's march after burning Atlanta, a disheartened South was forced to negotiate with the Union's "butcher" Ulysses S Grant. Grant was a failed tanner's son who had left the Army before the war and had fallen victim to alcoholism, he would show his military prowess in the coming conflict and eventually be promoted to the highest rank granted in US history "General of The Army of The United States." The war would be over less than a year and a half following Grant's promotion, "Unconditional Surrender" Grant earned a reputation for his bold tactics, frontal charges, and his willingness to take losses in order to win battles. The generals on both sides would meet at Appomattox Virginia and negotiate a surrender in April of 1865, the confederate states would begin a period of reconstruction that would last 13 years. Arkansas has a rich history that new residents often overlook. Sites like battlefields and forts litter the state and provide a great weekend adventure for the whole family! Our history is also deeply tied to the state of Arkansas, join our family at Quick Rent Storage, we offer some of the best local storage units for an affordable price.
