History of the Lost State of Franklin

By Samuel Cole Williams

Book Overview

"History of the Lost State of Franklin" is a comprehensive historical account of the short-lived, self-declared state that existed in the late 18th century within the territory that would eventually become East Tennessee. Written by Samuel Cole Williams, a noted jurist and historian, this work meticulously documents the political, social, and military struggles of the settlers who sought independence from North Carolina between 1784 and 1788.

The narrative explores the complex motivations behind the formation of Franklin, led by figures like John Sevier, and examines the tensions between the frontier inhabitants, the state of North Carolina, and the nascent United States government. Williams provides deep insights into the challenges of governance on the American frontier, the conflicts with indigenous populations, and the overarching quest for self-determination during the post-Revolutionary era. This scholarly yet accessible volume remains a vital resource for understanding the early territorial history of the American South and the unique constitutional experiments that preceded the formal expansion of the Union.

Rich in detail and based on extensive primary research, "History of the Lost State of Franklin" illuminates a fascinating and often overlooked chapter of American history, capturing the spirit of independence and the complexities of life on the edge of a growing nation.

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• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1025413490
• ISBN13: 9781025413495
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 386 Pages
• Weight: 1.58 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 6.1" x 9.2"