If I were living in Washington Territory in the 1800’s, I believe I would have been for Washington breaking away from Oregon and becoming a state. I select this position, because of the wide division of government philosophy, which the two regions possessed. Washington Territory was leaned more republican, Oregon, Democratic. The favoritism and federal funding (through railroad grants and other programs), were swayed towards the Portland area. Bribes and enticements would bring prosperity to Oregon, with Washington unable to participate in a free society. Washington Territory would remain without representation, which created hate and discontent. …show more content…
Many times, the territory had requested statehood, but their frustrations fell on deaf ears. Creating a newly formed state, would give voice to the growing population and create expansion, which would benefit the Puget Sound and other developing areas throughout the region.
Opportunist who lived in Washington Territory knew that in order to claim land and profits from its resources, they needed to establish a firm established government. As the population grew (during the 1870-1880’s), many conflicts arose which needed ruling. Labor conflicts and striking minors, needed law and order. It was apparent, that the region demanded administrative leadership.
Why Washington should remain part of Oregon:
In my opinion, there was no real benefit for Washington territory to remain part of Oregon, unless you were Oregon. Had the territory remain part of Oregon, Oregon would have benefitted by the natural resources that the territory had to offer. From the mining, farming, lumber and fishing, Washington Territory would have given Oregon great wealth and additional prosperity.
Oregon would have also benefitted from the Puget Sound water way, linking the sound to the Pacific Ocean. This would have given the unified state, easier access to shipping and transportation,