20 Images Shows How Florida Became a United States Territory in 1821
Florida was controlled by Spain for many years before it became part of the United States. Florida was originally settled by Spain in the 1500s. Spanish leaders erected towns, forts and missions in the area over time. However, Spain found it difficult to control the large area. Florida was poorly equipped, small in population and money. The Spanish were losing their influence in Florida in the early 1800s.
Florida History
The United States desired Florida. The southern states were close to Florida. American leaders felt they would make the country safer if they could gain control of Florida. They were concerned about crossing the Florida border with the U.S. The border was somewhat poorly guarded and there were wars in the territory. American settlers were also looking for more land in the South.
In other parts of Spain’s empire, there were issues. Central and South American Spanish colonies were in the midst of gaining independence. Spain’s military and finances were required there. It just didn’t have the time to spare to devote to Florida. The Spanish realized that maintaining Florida was going to be difficult and expensive.
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The United States and Spain started negotiations regarding the Florida and the border of their respective territories. John Quincy Adams, Under Secretary of State, was in charge of the American side. Luis de OnÃs, a Spanish diplomat, spoke for Spain. In 1819 they agreed. This treaty was known as the Adams-OnÃs Treaty.
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As per the treaty, Spain ceded East Florida to the United States. Spain also gave up its claim to West Florida. In exchange, the United States made payment on claims against Spain up to five million dollars. The two nations also signed a new boundary for the west of North America, where the land belonged to the United States and the land to Spain.
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Although the treaty was signed in 1819, it did not immediately come into effect. It had to be ratified by both governments. Political issues and other concerns kept Spain from approving. The treaty was finally approved by both countries in 1821. This paved the way for Florida to be officially transferred.
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On July 17, 1821, Spain ceded Florida to the United States. The Spanish flag was replaced by the American flag. Andrew Jackson was the first military governor over the new of American territory. He served as governor for a short time and was instrumental in the transition from Spanish rule to American rule.
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Florida did not retain its statehood in 1821. It was initially a federally-administered territory. Congress of the United States officially establishes the Territory of Florida in 1822. Under one territorial government, East Florida and West Florida were unified. The capital was moved to Tallahassee because it was between the principal settlements of St. Augustine and Pensacola.
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Florida’s government and future were altered when it became a territory of the United States. New legislation was passed, additional immigrants were brought in and towns started to grow. The change also led to strife and suffering, particularly for the Native peoples of Florida. Florida was a territory for twenty-four years until in 1845 it was admitted as the twentieth seventh state of the United States.
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