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Hannon, Matthew E.

History

2008

MA

This paper examines the Vennont Colonization Society (VCS) from 1818-1872. The VCS has consistently been overlooked by historians examining the colonization movement in nineteenth-century America. In order to accurately portray the Vermont Colonization Society several steps must be taken. First, the establishment of the state society and its founding membership must be explored within the context of the colonization movement. A discussion about the VCS within the socio-religious context of the Second Great Awakening must follow. Their operations and mentality during the regional conflict of the nineteenth century must be examined. Lastly, the decline of the VCS during Reconstruction must be also be explored. How does the Vermont Colonization Society fit into the colonization movement in America? This thesis concludes by discussing how VCS fits within the social, religious, and political environments of nineteenth-century America.