What was the original purpose for the creation of the state of West Virginia?

The creation of West Virginia was primarily driven by its residents' desire to remain loyal to the Union during the Civil War. As the conflict escalated, it became increasingly clear that the western part of Virginia had different economic interests, social structures, and political allegiances compared to the eastern region, which favored secession.

In 1861, counties in the western part of Virginia held a convention and opted to break away from the larger state in order to form their own government that would align itself with the Union. This decision was based on both ideological differences and a strong commitment to the Union cause, making the loyalty to the Union the fundamental reason behind the formation of West Virginia as a separate state.

The other options, while they touch on aspects of the time period, do not represent the primary motivation for West Virginia's creation. Gaining independence from Virginia was a result of the desire to protect interests, not a standalone purpose. Establishing new trade routes or creating a new agricultural economy were not the driving forces in the statehood debate during the Civil War; rather, the focus was on political allegiance and the desire to support the Union cause.