The United Republic of Virginia (URV), also known as the United Republic, was a government set up by several pro-slavery counties in southern Virginia between 1861 until dissolving in 1863. The government was established in response to the election of Abraham Lincoln, and proclaimed themselves to be the rightful government of Virginia. The establishment of the United Republic of Virginia was one of the sparks that lead to the Virginian Civil War. The only President of the United Republic was Thomas S. Bocock.