Maine’s History and Statehood
Maine was part of Massachusetts until 1820 when it voted to secede and become a separate state. On March 15, 1820, under the Missouri Compromise, Maine was admitted to the Union as the 23rd state. Maine began as a Massachusetts province in 1677, but 143 years later, it officially broke up with Massachusetts. Since 1936, Maine license plates have borne the slogan “Vacationland.”
Maine’s Early Settlement and Relationship with Massachusetts
For the period between October 25, 1780 and March 15, 1820, the District of Maine served as the governmental name for what is now Maine. Maine was a part of Massachusetts until 1820, when it became an independent state. Maine gained statehood from Massachusetts on March 15, 1820.
Maine’s Notable Features
Maine’s original state capital was Portland until it was moved to Augusta in 1832. The 20th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment prevented the Union Army from being flanked at Little Round Top. January is normally Maine’s snowiest month, with an average of about 20 inches. Lobster rolls are arguably the most iconic food in Maine. The state also is known for more than 40,000 acres of wild blueberries.