For what it is worth the Papal State in Rome did recognize the Confederate States of America and exchanged ambassadors. This is part of the reason why the Pope came to Davis Defense when Davis was in Prison. And also why there was believe to be a Catholic Church connection with Lincoln's assassination. But that is another thread.

We also have the Trent Affair where Confederate Diplomats were granted the protection of the British Government and both the British and the French Governments entered into commercial agreements for war supplies and construction of Ships for War faring purposes.

These things may not have amounted to "official" Diplomatic recognition, but it would seem that they did not shun these Confederates business dealings either.

I have always been told if it walks like a Duck, flys like a Duck, and Quacks like a Duck. It was probably a Duck.