March 15, 1820: Maine is admitted as the 23rd state

Prior to European occupation, Maine was inhabited by the native tribes of the Wabanaki peoples. The tribe's first encounter with Europeans was in 1200 C.E., when they began trading with Norwegian settlers from the Newfoundland colony. In 1604, Maine became inhabited by the French. They created the first permanent settlements in Maine, at Saint Croix Island. By 1607, the English began exploring the area, and establishing their first settlements. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Maine became a battleground between the French, English and native inhabitants. After their defeat in the French and Indian War, the French ceded much of Maine to the English. With the end of the American Revolution, 18 years later, Maine was given to the new United States with the signing of the Treaty of Paris. Before statehood, Maine would be a territory of Massachusetts. It would become a further battle ground during the War of 1812. In 1819, Maine separated from Massachusetts, becoming an independent territory. On March 15, 1820, Maine was granted statehood as part of the Missouri Compromise.

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