ALLTOURS

Could a State Break Apart? US Regions with Secessionist Dreams

1. The Land of the Yoopers

Upper Peninsula, Michigan, USA

Geographically separated by the Straits of Mackinac, its inhabitants often identify more with Wisconsin than with Lower Michigan, fueling historical secession talks.

2. The Republic That Almost Was

Southern Oregon / Northern California, USA

During WWII, parts of Southern Oregon and Northern California dramatically declared independence, establishing roadblocks and electing a provisional governor.

3. America's Canadian Island

Point Roberts, Washington, USA

This small U.S. exclave is physically cut off from the rest of the United States, accessible only by land through Canada or by boat/plane.

4. The Forgotten State of Franklin

Eastern Tennessee, USA

For four years after the American Revolution, a portion of western North Carolina declared itself an independent state, complete with its own constitution and governor.

5. The War Over a Strip of Land

Toledo, Ohio / Michigan, USA

In 1835, Ohio and Michigan nearly went to war over a 468-square-mile strip of land, a conflict known as the 'Toledo War.'

6. Virginia's Seaborne Sister

Virginia's Eastern Shore, USA

The Eastern Shore of Virginia, geographically separated from the rest of the state by the Chesapeake Bay, once considered seceding to form a new state or join Maryland.

7. The Northernmost Exclave

Northwest Angle, Minnesota, USA

The northernmost point of the contiguous U.S. is an exclave, physically detached from the rest of Minnesota and only accessible by land through Canada or over Lake of the Woods.

EXPLORE BEYOND THE MAP

Uncover the Hidden Stories of America's Divided Lands

Point your camera at these unique regions and hear their full, surprising histories come to life.