What was especially damaging to the union about Virginia's secession?

Answer 1

Virginia's secession was particularly damaging for several reasons, but in particular because it bordered most of Washington DC. It was also home to Norfolk Harbour, an important naval installation and the Tredeger Iron Works, one of the largest cannon manufacturing facilities in North America. Psychologically, it had been the birthplace of a large number of ex presidents, and could be seen as the political heartland of America deserting the Union it had helped to create. At the time it was not seen especially damaging, but Robert E Lee only accepted a commission with the Confederate Army because his home state had seceded, and he proved to be one of the greatest generals of all time.