What were the Border States?

Example:

The border states, including Delaware, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, and West Virginia, were crucial during the Civil War because they were slave states that stayed with the Union, highlighting deep divisions within the country. Their strategic locations and resources were vital for both the North and South, which made their loyalty a key factor in the Union's victory. The tensions between states' rights and federal authority seen in the border states continue to influence debates today, such as those over voting laws and healthcare. These historical tensions can impact people's daily lives when they encounter laws that differ from state to state, affecting things like education and legal rights. Understanding these historical divisions helps people appreciate the complexities of current political and social issues.