Free Vermont

Free Vermont was a political movement and slogan that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, advocating for the independence of the state of Vermont from the United States. The movement was part of a broader countercultural and anti-establishment sentiment prevalent during that era.

History

The Free Vermont movement was influenced by the counterculture of the 1960s, which included a mix of anti-war protests, civil rights activism, and a general disillusionment with the federal government. The movement gained traction among some Vermonters who felt that the state's unique cultural and political identity was being overshadowed by national policies and interests.

Key Figures

Several prominent figures were associated with the Free Vermont movement, including Bernie Sanders, who later became a U.S. Senator, and Thomas Naylor, an economist and secessionist advocate. These individuals, among others, played significant roles in promoting the idea of Vermont's independence.

Goals and Ideals

The primary goal of the Free Vermont movement was to establish Vermont as an independent republic. Advocates argued that Vermont's small size, distinct culture, and progressive values made it well-suited to self-governance. The movement also emphasized environmental sustainability, localism, and social justice.

Legacy

While the Free Vermont movement did not achieve its goal of independence, it left a lasting impact on the state's political landscape. The movement contributed to Vermont's reputation as a bastion of progressive politics and environmental consciousness. It also inspired later secessionist efforts, such as the Second Vermont Republic.

Related Movements

The Free Vermont movement is often compared to other regional independence movements in the United States, such as the Republic of Texas and the Cascadia independence movement. These movements share a common desire for greater regional autonomy and self-determination.

See Also

• Second Vermont Republic
• Counterculture of the 1960s
• Bernie Sanders
• Secession in the United States
• Republic of Texas
• Cascadia independence movement