A referendum on annexation by Liberia was held in the Republic of Maryland on 24 February 1857.[1] All voters voted in favor, and an agreement with Liberia was signed on 28 February.[1] On 6 April 1857 the Liberian Legislature accepted Maryland into the republic.[1]
Whilst neighboring Liberia had become independent in 1847, Maryland remained a colony for a further seven years. Following a 1853 referendum,[2] Maryland became a separate independent state on 8 June 1854.[3]
In December 1856 Maryland became involved in a war against the native population. Liberian troops arrived to assist in February 1857, by which time Maryland could no longer see a future as an independent state.[1] Demands were put to the legislature for a referendum on integration into Liberia