1857 Maryland annexation referendum

A referendum on annexation by Liberia was held in the Republic of Maryland on 24 February 1857.[1] All voters voted in favor, and an agreement with Liberia was signed on 28 February.[1] On 6 April 1857 the Liberian Legislature accepted Maryland into the republic.[1]

Background

Whilst neighboring Liberia had become independent in 1847, Maryland remained a colony for a further seven years. Following a 1853 referendum,[2] Maryland became a separate independent state on 8 June 1854.[3]

In December 1856 Maryland became involved in a war against the native population. Liberian troops arrived to assist in February 1857, by which time Maryland could no longer see a future as an independent state.[1] Demands were put to the legislature for a referendum on integration into Liberia

References
  1. Maryland in Liberia (Liberia), 24 February 1857: Integration with Liberia Direct Democracy (in German)
  2. Maryland in Liberia (Liberia), 31 January 1853: Independence Direct Democracy (in German)
  3. Maryland in Liberia (Liberia), 29 March 1854: Constitution Direct Democracy (in German)
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