Will the Second Vermont Republic or any other regional independence movement succeed? The example of 1861 sets a disastrous precedent for those who want the most radical solutions. On the other hand, the former Soviet republics more recently separated from Russia without war. And historically the boundaries of countries are ever-shifting.
Its probably a long way to the first true secessionist vote. Possibly no such vote will ever be taken. But even if these projects don't achieve their ultimate aims, they do succeed in bringing activists together. They shine much-needed light on deep national problems. They get people to think outside the box. Organizations like the SVR and the FSP could renew the cultural climate of their states and restore an independent spirit to parts of North America. That alone could be a worthy goal.
For more information:
The Second Vermont Republic, PO Box 1093, Montpelier, VT 05601, www.vermontrepublic.org The Free State Project, PO Box 1684, Keene, NH 03431, 1-888-532-4604, www.freestateproject.org The American Secession Project, www.secessionist.us (This is a web-only listing of many secession and free state projects.)(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).