Twenty Years of Congress, Vol. 1 From Lincoln to Garfield, with a Review of the Events Which Led to the Political Revolution of 1860

CHAPTER XXI.

Chapter 2297 wordsPublic domain

The President's Border-State Policy.--Loyal Government erected in Virginia.--Recognized by Congress and Senators admitted.--Desire for a New State.--The Long Dissatisfaction of the People of Western Virginia.--The Character of the People and of their Section.--Their Opportunity had come.--Organization of the Pierpont Government.-- State Convention and Constitution.--Application to Congress for Admission.--Anti-slavery Amendment.--Senate Debate: Sumner, Wade, Powell, Willey, and Others.--House Debate: Stevens, Conway, Bingham, Segar.--Passage of Bill in Both Branches.--Heavy Blow to the Old State.--Her Claims deserve Consideration.--Should be treated as generously at least as Mexico.