An independence referendum was held in the Maryland Colony on 31 January 1853.[1] Only 122 people voted in the referendum, all in favor of independence.[1]
Background edit
The Maryland State Colonization Society was established in Maryland in the United States in 1830.[1] The group established the Maryland Colony in Africa on 22 February 1834.[2] After Liberia declared independence in 1847, the desire for independence also grew in Maryland, and the settlers presented a petition to the authorities for a referendum.
Results edit
| Choice | Votes | % |
|---|---|---|
| For | 122 | 100 |
| Against | 0 | 0 |
| Invalid/blank votes | – | |
| Total | 122 | 100 |
| Source: Direct Democracy | ||
Aftermath edit
Following the referendum, elections were held for a Constitutional Council in February 1854, a new constitution was approved in a referendum in March 1854, and Maryland declared independence as the Republic of Maryland on 8 June 1854.[3]
References edit
- ^ a b c Maryland in Liberia (Liberia), 31 January 1853: Independence Direct Democracy (in German)
- ^ The African repository, Volume 14, p42
- ^ Maryland in Liberia (Liberia), 29 March 1854: Constitution Direct Democracy (in German)