People always bring up Texas as an alleged example of a state that joined the union with the understanding that it could secede at will. There is no such clause when Texas joined the union. What was agreed to is that Texas could (if it so chose) be further subdivided into multiple states, all of which would automatically be recognized by the Federal Government. How that got to be twisted into the urban legend that Texas can still secede at will is a mystery.
Such a clause was not needed in the Texas Constitution or any other state’s constitution before the Civil War because it was commonly understood that the states could leave the union at will.
Such a clause was not needed in the Texas Constitution or any other state’s constitution before the Civil War because it was commonly understood that the states could leave the union at will.
As proof of this understand amongst the states.
South Carolina Threatens to Secede from the United States
November 24, 1832
At this time there are many national troubles, especially between the government of the United States and the state of South Carolina. President Andrew Jackson's protective tariff has been opposed by South Carolina; and on Nov. 24, 1832, the legislature of South Carolina declares that as of Feb. 1, 1833, Jackson's tariff will no longer apply to that state, and that they will secede if President Jackson tries to enforce the law. On Dec. 10 President Jackson issues a proclamation against South Carolina and threatens to march forty thousand government troops against them.