Arkansas holds the distinction of being the 25th state admitted to the Union.
Arkansas: The 25th State
When considering the order in which states officially joined the United States, Arkansas occupies a significant position. It was formally admitted as a state on June 15, 1836, becoming the twenty-fifth star on the American flag. This timing reflects its admission during a period of substantial territorial expansion and national growth in the early 19th century.
Historical Context of Admission
The process of statehood typically involved a territory meeting specific population and governance criteria, followed by an act of Congress for formal admission into the Union. Arkansas's journey to statehood was part of a broader trend of new states joining the U.S., particularly from lands acquired through the Louisiana Purchase.
To provide a clear perspective on Arkansas's place in this historical sequence, consider its position relative to other states admitted around the same time:
Order | State | Admission Date |
---|---|---|
25. | Arkansas | June 15, 1836 |
26. | Michigan | January 26, 1837 |
27. | Florida | March 3, 1845 |
28. | Texas | December 29, 1845 |
This table illustrates that Arkansas's admission preceded that of other notable states like Michigan, Florida, and Texas, which joined the Union in the years following. Understanding this order provides insight into the progressive development and geographical expansion of the United States.
For further historical details regarding the order of state admissions and Arkansas's place within this timeline, you can consult official government records and historical archives. More information can be found on the Arkansas Secretary of State's official website.