The Lost State of Franklin: 1784-1788
Today only scant evidence of the lost state remains in Eastern Tennessee. In "A More Perfect Union" Franklin
survives, but its future is in your hands.
The campaigns of "A More Perfect Union" are set in the fictitious state of Franklin. However, it wasn't always just an imaginary place. The real state of Franklin existed from 1784 until 1788. It was formed by the inhabitants of Washington, Sullivan, and Greene counties in present day Eastern Tennessee after North Carolina ceded its western lands to the United States in June 1784.
The people of Franklin elected John Sevier governor for a three-year term in 1785. The state also established courts, appointed magistrates, levied taxes, and enacted laws. A permanent constitution was adopted in November 1785. Unable to secure congressional recognition and pressured by North Carolina in its attempt to reestablish jurisdiction, the state passed out of existence in 1788.
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© 2002 U.Va. Center for Politics, Youth Leadership Initiative
