1857 Maryland annexation referendum

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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

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