What was the 14th state admitted into the Union?

Vermont was admitted as the 14th state into the Union on March 4, 1791. This followed its declaration of independence from New York in 1777 and its subsequent status as an independent republic before joining the United States. Vermont was distinctive in its early statehood because it was one of the first states to outlaw slavery. Its admission reflects a significant moment in the early formation of the United States, where the balance of power among free and slave states was crucial. Understanding Vermont's unique path to statehood allows for a deeper appreciation of the early complexities within the Union.