Which states are considered Border States that did not secede from the Union during the Civil War?

The states identified as Border States during the Civil War were crucial because they were slave states that did not secede from the Union, playing a significant strategic role. This group included Delaware, Maryland, Kentucky, and Missouri. These states were vital for both the location and the resources they provided.

Delaware remained loyal to the Union, serving as a critical buffer between the North and Virginia. Maryland, despite having a significant population of Confederate sympathizers, was essential for protecting Washington D.C.; it bordered the capital and its loss could have jeopardized Union safety. Kentucky was strategically important as it held key waterways and transportation routes, and its allegiance was contested throughout the war; its declaration of neutrality shifted toward the Union as the conflict intensified. Missouri, while having a strong Confederate presence, also provided significant support and resources to the Union.

In contrast, the other choices contain states that either did not belong to this category or were outright Confederate states. For instance, Rhode Island and Ohio had no alignment with the Border States, as they were loyal Union supporters, while Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina seceded and joined the Confederacy. Understanding the role of these Border States is essential in grasping the complexities of Civil War allegiances and the