Date of Award

Spring 2025

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Historical & Political Studies; College of Arts & Sciences

First Advisor

Geoffrey Haywood

Abstract

Because of the Civil War, secession is a sore topic to many Americans. However, the idea of secession has not been confined to this notorious example. My essay focuses on the idea that Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia could be the basis for a unified autonomous or even independent entity called Cascadia. First, I discuss the history of secession as such, and the arguments that have been made pro and con as to its legality and under what situations. I then situate this within the histories of the United States and Canada and the phenomena of regionalism and independent movements. I refer to the little-known case of Vermont(independent from 1777-1791) and the 19th century discussions of an independent west coast and northwest. I argue that the idea of a unique cultural identity of people on the west coast and northwest is one foundation otf the Cascadia movement. From there, I move to more modern times and discuss the strong tensions that have arisen in the United States and Canada between the central government and various regions and localities. Lastly, I discuss the modern Cascadia movement. I ask: Who supports Cascadia, what do they want, how do they want to achieve it, and what is their ultimate goal? My research resonates with the current political moment, as people are increasingly asking themselves if Cascadia would serve their interests better than remaining within the Union or Canada.

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Cascadian Independence: A Rising Movement for an Independent Northwest Amid Growing Regionalism in the United States and Canada

Because of the Civil War, secession is a sore topic to many Americans. However, the idea of secession has not been confined to this notorious example. My essay focuses on the idea that Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia could be the basis for a unified autonomous or even independent entity called Cascadia. First, I discuss the history of secession as such, and the arguments that have been made pro and con as to its legality and under what situations. I then situate this within the histories of the United States and Canada and the phenomena of regionalism and independent movements. I refer to the little-known case of Vermont(independent from 1777-1791) and the 19th century discussions of an independent west coast and northwest. I argue that the idea of a unique cultural identity of people on the west coast and northwest is one foundation otf the Cascadia movement. From there, I move to more modern times and discuss the strong tensions that have arisen in the United States and Canada between the central government and various regions and localities. Lastly, I discuss the modern Cascadia movement. I ask: Who supports Cascadia, what do they want, how do they want to achieve it, and what is their ultimate goal? My research resonates with the current political moment, as people are increasingly asking themselves if Cascadia would serve their interests better than remaining within the Union or Canada.