After 200 years, the Republic of West Florida is looking for a little respect.

Amid the colorful history of Louisiana the little nation has been almost forgotten.

On Sept. 23, 1810, 75 armed rebels slipped into the Spanish fort at Baton Rouge, and in what was described as a “sharp and bloody firefight,” subdued the garrison.

Three days later the rebels signed a declaration of independence and set up a government. West Florida achieved its goal — annexation by the United States — less than three months later.

On Thursday, ceremonies marking the anniversary of the revolt will be held in Baton Rouge and Covington, La.

But the rebellion is getting no attention in the other states that were part of West Florida.