What is the lost State of Franklin?

The State of Franklin was a short-lived, self-proclaimed state in the late 18th century, located in what is now eastern Tennessee. It was established in 1784 by settlers who were dissatisfied with governance from North Carolina and sought greater autonomy. The movement was led by John Sevier, but it faced challenges from both North Carolina and the federal government, leading to its dissolution by 1788. Although it never gained official recognition, the State of Franklin is often considered an early example of American frontier governance and the struggle for statehood.