The Conch Rebellion and the establishment of the Conch Republic are used to set out the basic idea of modern secession in the United States and provide for a light-hearted approach to the subject. First, we establish a working definition of secession through the extant literature. Second, we create a foundation of the concept of self-determination, especially in the setting of American Politics. Overall, the chapter provides an overview of what readers will encounter throughout the remainder of the book.