Alabama admitted as 22nd U.S. state

Background. The Alabama Territory was carved from the Mississippi Territory on August 15, 1817, following the separation of the eastern half. This separation occurred before Mississippi's admission to statehood in December 1817. The territory existed until its admission to the Union in December 1819, marking the end of its territorial status.

Legislative Process. The Alabama Territory was designated by two interdependent Acts of Congress passed in March 1817. These acts did not become effective until October 10, 1817, due to a provision requiring the western part of the Mississippi Territory to form a state constitution first. The admission as the 22nd state occurred on December 14, 1819.

Constitutional Convention. Congress selected Huntsville as the site for the first Constitutional Convention. Delegates met from July 5 to August 2, 1819, to prepare the new state constitution. This convention preceded the formal admission of Alabama as a state in December 1819.