The Republic of West Florida declares independence from Spain

Background. American and British settlers between the Mississippi and Perdido rivers resented Spanish rule, leading to rebellion in 1810. From June to September, secret meetings and three open conventions occurred in the Baton Rouge district. These gatherings organized opposition to the district governor, Carlos de Hault de Lassus, setting the stage for the armed uprising that would establish the independent Republic of West Florida.

Declaration and Flag. On September 23, 1810, armed rebels organized by Philemon Thomas stormed Fort San Carlos at Baton Rouge. The firefight resulted in the death of two Spanish soldiers and the capture of Governor de Lassus. The rebels unfurled the flag of the new republic, a single white star on a blue field, symbolizing the break from Spanish authority and the establishment of the unrecognized state.

Establishment of the Republic. The declaration established the Republic of West Florida as an independent entity for 74 days. The republic was officially known as the State of Florida and remained unrecognized by the United States during its brief existence. The flag of the new republic, a single white star on a blue field, was unfurled following the seizure of Fort San Carlos.