Browsing by Author "Holleman, Irwin Thomas,1938-"

Now showing 1 - 1 of 1

The development of a republican government in the Territory of Orleans, 1804-1812
(1963) Holleman, Irwin Thomas,1938-; Allen, Milford
It was the purpose of this study to find answers to the questions of (1) how the republican form of government was achieved in the Territory of Orleans and (2) why it was achieved in a short period of only eight years (1804-1812). The answers to the questions were found by focusing the study upon the Louisianans, the people who were to be the future rulers of the state, and the territorial administration of Governor W. C. C. Claiborne and the factors that contributed either to the success or failure of this new American administration. The present writer, has in deriving answers to these questions, relied upon primary sources wherever possible and secondary sources only when a general view of events is needed. The aim has been to present a reliable, factual study of this early territorial government. This study has derived several of the reasons for the establishment of a republican government in the Territory of Orleans, and the following major reasons appear to be justified. The first major reason was Governor Claiborne’s administration and the role it played in determining the success of the venture to establish a republican government in this depressed society. Many facets of Claiborne’s personal or private life added to his administration’s impact on the Louisianians. A second was found in the establishment of a system of local government by Governor Claiborne that allowed nearly everyone to participate. The third major reason was the wise and proper handling of legislation by the United States Congress in crucial matters dealing with Orleans’ hopes for statehood. Several minor factors for the establishment of a republican government in the Territory of Orleans were also derived from this study.