At the outbreak of the civil war, which of the following states was considered a border state?

A.) California
B.) Kentucky
C.) New Hampshire
D.) Massachusetts

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Where is each of these four states? Which ONE is on the border of North and South?

To determine which of the states listed was considered a border state at the outbreak of the Civil War, we need to understand the concept of border states in relation to the conflict. Border states were states that bordered both the Union (Northern states) and the Confederacy (Southern states) and did not secede from the Union to join the Confederacy. They were critical due to their geographic location and the potential to impact the outcome of the war.

Let's analyze the options provided:

A.) California: California was not considered a border state during the Civil War. Although it was located on the western border of the United States, it did not share a border with any Confederate states. California was firmly part of the Union and played a significant role in supporting the war effort.

B.) Kentucky: Kentucky was indeed considered a border state at the outbreak of the Civil War. It shares a border with several Confederate states, including Tennessee and Virginia. Kentucky's strategic location made it a vital focus for both the Union and the Confederacy. The state officially declared neutrality, but Confederate sympathizers and Unionists clashed within its borders throughout the war.

C.) New Hampshire: New Hampshire was not considered a border state during the Civil War. It is located in the northeastern region of the United States and did not share a direct border with any Confederate states. New Hampshire strongly supported the Union cause during the war.

D.) Massachusetts: Massachusetts, like New Hampshire, was not considered a border state during the Civil War. Located in the New England region of the United States, Massachusetts did not share a border with any Confederate states. It was an active participant in the Union effort and produced significant numbers of soldiers and supplies.

Based on the analysis, the correct answer is B.) Kentucky. It was the only state listed that served as a border state during the Civil War.