With American victory in the Revolutionary War, Maine grew in importance. Not until after the eastern part of Maine had been occupied by Britain in the War of 1812 did efforts for recognition as a state begin to bear fruit. Maine was admitted to the Union in 1820 as a free state, to balance Missouri as a slave state. Its first capital was Portland, but in 1832 Maine's capital was moved to Augusta. Largely through timber trade with Asia, Europe, and the West Indies, Maine grew rapidly in population and prosperity. It also was a center for shipbuilding.