West Virginia was formed from the northwestern counties of Virginia that sought to remain loyal to the Union during the American Civil War. The political climate in Virginia became increasingly unpredictable as the conflict escalated, with many residents in the western counties feeling that their interests and needs were being ignored by the state government. In 1861, a convention was called that led to the declaration of independence from Virginia. After several acts of local governance, a constitution was adopted in 1863, and a vote was held to seek statehood. These actions were encouraged by Union officials, who viewed the creation of West Virginia as a means to bolster their control in the region. The formal admission into the Union was granted when President Abraham Lincoln signed the statehood proclamation in June 1863. This act marked a strategic win for the Union government, particularly as it provided additional manpower and resources for the Union Army in the ongoing Civil War. The new state was formed under a unique set of circumstances, highlighting the complexities of loyalty and governance during wartime. The state's geographical formation, characterized by mountainous terrain and diverse resources, played a vital role in both the economic and military strategies employed throughout the conflict.As a result, West Virginia's entry into the Union as a separate state not only reshaped the political landscape of the region but also set a precedent for future conflict-driven state admissions. The state became a significant player in the Civil War, contributing to various military engagements and providing essential resources. The admission of West Virginia is also notable for its reflection of the social divisions that characterized the Civil War era, illustrating how political loyalty can diverge significantly within a single state.