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Period: 30,000 BCE to
Beginnings to Exploration
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11,000 BCE
Bering Land Bridge: Eskimo Wave
Based upon genetics from modern populations and ancient skeletons, it is concluded that all Native Americans began from a single group and later split into two branches. One branch included the Amerindians, who occupied North America south of the Bering Land Bridge, the lands in Central America, and in South America. While the other branch included Paleo-Eskimos, and Inuit in the far north. Geneticists believe that this split took place about 13,000 years ago. -
6000 BCE
North - American Native Societies: Arctic Igloos
The traditional shelter of Inuit living in the far northern regions. Built from blocks of snow, the building has a circular form, in which the walls curve inward toward the top so that the arched ceiling is self-supported. Igloos retain heat and protects against wind. It includes a tunnel entrance with a cold trap to preserve heat inside. The sleeping and sitting area is at a higher elevation to maintain higher temperatures, and a small hole is near the top of the igloo to provide ventilation. -
1000 BCE
Mesoamerica: Olmecs Ball Game
The main goal of the ball game is to get a rubber ball through one of the rings on the court. The players couldn't use their hands, so they had to use their padded elbows, knees, thighs, and shoulders. Teams were composed of two or three male-only players, players could be professionals or amateurs. War captives had no choice, and were forced to play. The games had a religious significance, as a result, the captain of the losing team, or sometimes the entire team, were sacrificed to the gods. -
1502
Conquest of the New World: (Inca) Emperor Atahualpa
Son of the previous emperor, Atahualpa wasn't the legitimate heir. However, he seemed to be the father's favorite. The empire split between Atahualpa, and his brother, Huascar. Atahualpa got involved into a civil war with Huascar, and won. While enjoying his triumph, a man named Francisco Pizarro and his men arrived to the empire. Pizarro attempted to convert Atahualpa to the Christian faith, Atahualpa rejected those demands, and a battle began. The Spanish were victorious, and the empire fell. -
1534
New France: Jacques Cartier
In 1534, France's King authorized Jacques Cartier to lead a voyage to the New World for riches and to find a route to Asia. Jacques' expeditions along the St. Lawrence River would enable France to claim the lands that would later become Canada. In Jacques' first voyage, he was credited for giving Canada its name, and discovering Prince Edward Island. While Jacques' second voyage was a failed attempt at settling a base camp in Quebec. The third voyage was his last, ending in complete failure. -
1539
New Spain: Seven Cities of Cibola
In 1539, Friar Marcos de Niza reported to Spanish colonial officials in Mexico City that he’d seen the legendary city of Cibola. This made the explorers very excited, hearing many tales of the Seven Cities of Cibola. However, the Spanish expedition to that location only revealed a modest adobe pueblo. The expedition became a flop, the famed conquistador Francisco Vazquez de Coronado led this adventure, and was blamed for it. Everyone who took part in the expedition became heavily in debt. -
1539
English Colonization: Humphrey Gilbert
Humphrey Gilbert was an English navigator who devised projects of overseas colonization. His poor leadership resulted in his failure to establish the first permanent English colony in North America. As he was setting sail to North America, he was halted by a fierce storm. On a later exploration, he was able to establish a small settlement on Newfoundland. However, the settlers became disenchanted and convinced Gilbert to take the group home. Gilbert's ship was lost during the return voyage. -
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English Colonial Societies
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Charter Colonies: New Jersey
Before Europeans arrived, Delaware Indians (Lenni Lenape Indians) occupied the region. In 1609, English navigator Henry Hudson sent a party to explore Sandy Hook Bay. The first permanent European Settlement was established by the Dutch at Bergen in 1660. The colony was under English rule in 1664, but for the next nine years, Dutch fought for the land. In 1676, the province was divided into East and West Jersey. The division lasted until 1702, when the entire province became officially English. -
Chesapeake Colonies: George Calvert
Was granted the title of "Knight" for his good service as a secretary for the government from the King of England in 1617. After the King died, George Calvert became a Catholic. When he was supposed to resign because he was a Catholic, the new King decided to give him a new title because George was hardworking. He invested money for exploration to the New World so he could make a place where Catholics could not be persecuted. He was given a colony north of Virginia (Maryland), but later died. -
Barbados - Jamaica
In these first settlements, administration was primarily from private companies and commercial institutions. Trusted adventurers were responsible for the colonization and exploitation of the islands. It was better not to involve themselves directly due to the lack of capital resources to invest in the islands. Also, there was a greater interest in invasion of neighboring territories and conquering those lands. Sugar was an important crop, facilitated by slaves, who outnumbered whites. -
New England Colonies: Roger Williams
Founded the state of Rhode Island and advocated the separation of church and state in Colonial America. The ideas of religious freedom and tolerance got wrath from his church, and was later banished from the colony of Massachusetts. Williams and his followers settled on Narragansett Bay, where he purchased land from the Narragansett Indians for a colony set on establishing religious liberty and the idea of separation of church and state. Rhode Island became a haven for religious minorities. -
(English Colonial Societies) Issues: Nathaniel Bacon
In Virginia, Bacon endorsed a policy of removing all Indians for territorial expansion and revenge for earlier Native attacks on the frontier settlements. The governor, William Berkeley, feared of a general Indian war and a concern for trade with Natives, advocated a policy of caution. Bacon organized an expedition against the Indians. Berkley attacked Bacon during one of Bacon's raids against the Natives. Bacon managed to seize control of the government and changed the economy of Virginia. -
Act of Union (1707): Unification of England and Scotland
After the Glorious Revolution, international tension provoked a dangerous legislative warfare between the parliaments of England and Scotland. However, it was clear that a union would be a solution to their nation's problems. Scotland's economic security and England's need for political safeguards against French attacks. Protestant succession would be adopted. With minor amendments, the Scottish Parliament passed the treaty, and the English soon after. Union went into effect months later. -
(Colonial America) Slavery: Middle Passage
The Middle Passage was the voyage of enslaved Africans across the Atlantic Ocean to the New World. A part of the triangular trade route, slaves were treated as part of the transferred goods. During this time period, millions of African men, women, and children were put abroad in overcrowded sailing ships manned by crews from Great Britain, the Netherlands, Portugal, and France. This passage supplied the New World with its major workforce and enormous profits to international slave traders. -
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Colonial America to 1763
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Proprietary Colonies: Division of Carolina
Southern part of Carolina was influenced by the economy of the British West Indies. Rice became a profitable crop. African slaves became a majority of the population. The northern reaches was different. The first inhabitants were former indentured servants from the Chesapeake. Most established small tobacco farms, and slavery existed on a small scale. The two parts evolved separately due to different geographies and inhabitants. In 1712, the two parts split apart, and became distinct colonies. -
Jean - Jacques Rousseau
Rosseau was a French philosopher and writer of the Age of Enlightenment. His political philosophy, particularly his social contract theory, strongly influenced the French Revolution and the development of conservatism. Saw a divide between society and human nature, humankind corrupted by an artificial society. Believed modern society has degenerated to a primitive state. Attacked the institution of private property, and is therefore considered a forebear of modern-day Socialism and Anarchism. -
Virtual Representation: Salutary Neglect
Policy which British government during early to mid-18th century put North American colonies under laxly enforced and loose supervision. Stayed this way as long as the colonies remained loyal to the British government and contributed to the economic profits of Britain. Increased autonomy of colonial legal and legislative institutions. Led as an inspiration to American independence. The English government later adopted the Navigation Acts to balance trade between the colonies and the English. -
Mid-Atlantic Colonies' Economics
In the Mid-Atlantic colonies, the area was perfect for growing crops due to its great land and perfect weather. They also made money through trading goods in the major market towns, which were located in coastal lowlands, bays, and many rivers. Shopkeepers, artisans and many other specialized producers constituted the middle ranks of seaport society. Craft was passed on through family. Freehold ownership was promoted, allowing farmers to own land free from leases and dues to landlords. -
Johnathan Edwards
Johnathan Edwards became concerned that New Englanders were becoming too concerned with worldly matters. Seemed to him that people found the pursuit of wealth more important than religious principles. Edwards defended the religion of Calvinism. One day, a group of people were suggesting predestination was wrong. To defend his faith, John Edwards spoke with much fury and conviction against those beliefs. This caused many people to listen, which sparked the beginning of the Great Awakening. -
The Enlightenment: Benjamin Franklin
Franklin was born in colonial Boston. Decided to devote towards philanthropic and intellectual pursuits. He was an inventor and he developed diverse products (ex. wood-burning stove and bifocal reading glasses). His most famous work was with electricity. The famed experiment with a kite and key, Franklin was able to prove lightning was a form of electrical energy. Was a delegate in Continental Congress and a diplomat abroad. An ardent patriot, he proved great ideas can come from the Americas. -
Seven-Years War: Goerge Washington
In 1754, George Washington was a lieutenant colonel of the Virginia militia. He successfully defeats a party of French and Indian scouts in southwest Pennsylvania to claim territory for its own settlers. This action started a world war and became the start of Washington's military career. Ohio Valley had been a long contested territory, so when the French began establishing fortifications along the river, Virginia's governor dispatched Washington to defend a Virginian fort at the forks of Ohio. -
Problems with the British: Land
Through the Proclamation of 1763, the British crown enforced that the colonists were not allowed to go west of the Appalachians. The British made this proclamation to give consolidations to the Native Americans after noticing the Indian grievances from the Pontiac's war. This proclamation secured the Indians reservations west of the Appalachians, so the Americans couldn't settle there. This angered the colonists, for they were helping the British to secure the land for colonization. -
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The Revolutionary War
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Period: to
The Constitution
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Acts of Parliament: Prohibitory Act
The Prohibitory Act of 1775 was a retaliation by Great Britain in response to the rebellion going on in the American colonies. Britain's Parliament believed stern measures would subdue the rebellion going on in the colonies. Thus, they established the Prohibitory Act to set a blockade that would prevent trade with the 13 Colonies. The Congress of the colonies authorized American ship owners to seize British ships through privateering. Overall, the act moved the Americans towards independence. -
First Continental Congress: Patrick Henry
Patrick Henry was one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. He played as a major figure in the American Revolution through his rousing speeches. His most famous speech was "Give me liberty, or give me death!" This fired up America's fight for independence. Henry was an Anti-Federalist, one who opposed the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. He believed the document would put too much power in the hands of a national government. His influence helped create the Bill of Rights. -
Dumore's Proclamation
In November of 1775, the governor of Virginia, John Murray, issued a proclamation in response to the colonists forming armies and attacking British troops. Known as "Dunmore's Proclamation," the governor's announcement influenced many white Virginians to go against the British government. The proclamation declared Virginia in rebellion, and placed the colony under martial law. The main problem Virginians had with the announcement was that freedom was offered to slaves who fought for the British. -
Olive Branch Petition
Approved by the Continental Congress, the Founding Fathers sent a petition to King George III hoping for peace between the colonies and Britain. The writing phrased their discontent by targeting the policies of the colonies rather than the English's. At first, the Patriots hoped the restrictions were from the Parliament. However, the people's opinions changed when King George refused the Olive Branch Petition. This caused the colonists to be enraged, which was intensified by Thomas Paine. -
Common Sense: Thomas Paine
Born in England, Thomas Paine had an unsuccessful life. One day, he met Benjamin Franklin, who advised him to come to America for a better life. Thomas arrived in Philadelphia in 1774, where he was able to get publicity through the newspapers. During this time, the conflict between the colonies and England was at its peak. After Battle of Lexington and Concord, he wrote the idea that the colonists should be striving for independence in his writing called "Common Sense". This inspired many. -
The Declaration of Independence: Founding Fathers
The most prominent people during the generation of the Revolution, these men inspired the colonists to strive for independence from Britain through the Declaration of Independence. They also defined the Constitution in the Constitutional Convention after Independence was won. Concerned as the "gallery of greats", the Founding Fathers were: John Adams, Samuel Adams, Franklin, Hamilton, Patrick Henry, Jefferson, Madison, Marshall, Mason, and Washington (who was concerned the best out of them all). -
Battle of Princeton
Attempting to attack Washington, Major General Charles Cornwallis sent men to Trenton. During the night, Washington made his army to slip away on a back road to attack Princeton. On Washington's way, he met British regiments, and a fight began. Hearing word of this, Cornwallis hurriedly rushed to Princeton with his men. With reinforcements, Washington was able to defeat the troops guarding Princeton, and was able to march west. This victory invigorated the American cause, and renewed confidence. -
Articles of Confederation: Central Authority
Laws made during the American Revolution to establish the colonies as a confederation of sovereign states. On paper, Congress had the power to regulate foreign affairs, form a military, and make a currency. However, the Articles gave no real power for the states in terms of money or calling upon troops. After the American Revolution, the Articles of Confederation was broken down. Nevertheless, these events gave the Americas a experience in self-government, and paved the way to the Constitution. -
Northwest Ordinances
A set of ordinances made by the Congress for establishing the procedures for settlement in the Northwest Territory. During the American Revolution, the land was claimed by several of the 13 colonies. After the Revolution, specific measures were called for the division of the territory. These ordinances established when a land could be allowed as a state, how the state would be divided, and how that land will be governed. The ordinances made sure that new states were equal to the older ones. -
Shay's Rebellion
Named after Daniel Shays, the rebellion was a series of violent attacks on courthouses in Massachusetts. These rebels were mainly farmers who opposed the economic policies causing poverty and loss of property. Businesses demanded payments after the war, but there wasn't a set currency to be used to settle the debts. This made bartering the only way to pay the payments off .These men were planning to attack the local weapon arsenal, which was successfully brought down by the state army. -
The Great Debate: Federalists
The Articles of Confederation did not work well in dealing with federal issues. Thus needing to be changed. Actions were took place at the Constitutional Convention of 1787, which later was named the Great Debate. This five month event had an issue over balancing the power of the federal government and the states, resulting in a split between two sides. One of the groups was the Federalists. Led by Alexander Hamilton, they supported the Constitution, which would benefit the central government. -
The Creation of the Legislative Branch
One of the three branches created during the Constitutional Convention of 1787, this section of the government is responsible for executing the nation's laws. The chief of this branch is called the president of the United States. They stay in power for four years alongside the help of a vice president. The behind the scenes work is done by the president's cabinet, which is in charge of various departments. The president is elected by an electoral college, who represent the people's votes. -
Connecticut Compromise
To give some background on the this document, the states were deciding on how they wanted representation to work. The debate was split apart by one side keeping equal power for the smaller states, while a new idea to promote the bigger states. The Connecticut Compromise established a two-house legislature. The legislature would be the combination of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The prior form of representation was dependent on the states' population, while the latter was fixed. -
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The New Republic
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George Washington's First Cabinet
The cabinet is a group which advises the president on issues related to their corresponding departments. At the time, there were only three sections: the Department of State, the Department of the Treasury, and the Department of War. George Washington assigned these roles as following: Secretary of State: Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of Treasury: Alexander Hamilton, and Secretary of War: Henry Knox. Putting Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton led to the creation of the political parties. -
Establishing Washington DC as the Capital
Originally in New York City, the capital's location had issues. This was because the state was corrupt, for many officials can do suspicious transactions. So, Thomas Jefferson advised George Washington to move the capital to the District of Columbia. Later known as Washington, DC, in commemoration to the president. The new location was appreciated than the prior, for it's openness fixed the issue the previous location had. The new building was extravagant, expressing the power of the government. -
Pinckney's Treaty
This compromise centered around negotiations between the United States and the Spanish to resolve territorial disputes. Overall, the treaty was beneficial to the Americans. The results granted American ships the right to navigate along the Mississippi River as well as to transport goods to the port of New Orleans, which was under Spanish control. However, the European country was able to maintain their forts and have to the ability to rely on Native Americans in turn for protecting their lands. -
Washington's Farewell Address
Many Americans hoped that Washington would serve the government until death. However, Washington believed he had enough after his secnd term. He was in poor health, and too exhausted from the tensions amongst his cabinet. Washington stated that his role as president was only temporary, and that not having a third term was best. He wanted it this way so that the American government would not become a monarchy. Washington also wished for America not to be fully involved in international affairs. -
XYZ Affair
While France was at war with Great Britain, America remained neutral. When the United States signed the Jay Treaty with the English, the French were infuriated. They believed the relationship with the Americans was violated, and decided to seize a substantial amount of American merchant ships. Taken place during Adams' presidency, the new president sent diplomats to resolve the conflicts with France. However, the terms were too unfair. Thus, calling for war between the two countries. -
Thomas Jefferson - Kentucky Resolutions
These writings were protests against the Alien and Sedition Acts made by John Adams. This was passed by the legislatures of Kentucky. The leaders of this was James Madison and Thomas Jefferson. Their arguments were that the national government was only a compact between states. They believed the states had the right in deciding against unconstitutional laws. This became a foundation for states' rights. However, this created the people to act more recklessly. Eventually lead to the Civil War. -
Judiciary Act of 1801 - Midnight Judges
The Judiciary Act of 1801 reorganized the judiciary system. They established the first circuit courts throughout the country. The act called for last-minute judges, who were called "midnight judges". Why they were called this was because John Adams was being mischievous. When Adams was told of the official date he was to be out of office, he decided to declare a new act. The document was the Judiciary Act of 1801. He had done this late into the night of his last day in office. Hence, the name. -
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The Age of Jefferson
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Sacagawea
Thomas Jefferson bought the Louisiana Purchase. He then realized he had many miles of completely unexplored territory. There was hope that the rumored Northwest Passage was in those lands. Jefferson looked towards finding explorers to find this passage. He decided to send out Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. During the adventurer's expedition, they met Sacagawea. Recognizing her language skills, they considered her as a valuable asset. Without her, the adventure would not have been successful -
Tecumseh
Tecumseh was a war chief who ravaged the Ohio Valley area. He raided the frontier settlements of Kentucky and Tennessee. This proved his potential as a prominent chief. His brother's religious visions became the foundation for their actions. This was a justification for the creation of a political movement. The goal was to attract the Indian tribes together to revolt. They lost too much land, so, Tecumseh fought with pro-British forces in the War of 1812. He died at the battle of the Thames. -
Period: to
The American Industrial Revolution
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Rush-Bagot Agreement
A treaty between the United States and Britain in 1817. The United States' leader was Richard Rush, who was a secretary of state. The other was Charles Bagot, the British minister at the time. The treaty called for the demilitarization by the British. This called British forces to leave their navies and forts. This served as a boundary between the United States and British North America. The agreement had hope of improving relations between the United States and Great Britain after the war. -
McCulloch vs Maryland
A Supreme Court between a cashier named James W. McCulloch and Maryland. The state made a tax on bank notes, which was the duty of the national bank. This made McCulloch go to court, given that was not the state's right. The result was that the central government had designated powers granted. Concluding that the national government had supremacy over the states. As a result, the states could not take the place of the federal government. This made the South more radical about states' rights. -
Panic of 1819
After the War of 1812, monetary growth had come to a close. During the Westward Expansion, the government enforced the idea too far. This resulted in the financial crisis of America, which caused a big time low of unemployment and inflation. This occurred from the changes made towards the Second Bank of the United States. Management of the federal credit extended too far, which its facilitation was quickly stopped. The Panic of 1819 became the first economic crisis in the United States. -
Adam-Onis Treaty
Treaty between John Quincy Adams and Spanish minister, Do Luis de Onis. The document agreed that Spain ceded the remaining land of Florida to the United States. This was the result of constant attack from Native Americans and English colonists. After the American Revolution, Spain was struggling to keep control in international affairs. Thus, the Spaniards did their best to keep that land away from the United States. The area became the main conflict of boundary disputes to the Americans. -
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A Changing Culture
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Monroe Doctrine
An important document which the President James Monroe made about United States foreign policy. The main subject was that the Old World and New World was very different. Hence, why they should stay in their distinct spheres. United States was allowed to stay neutral in international affairs. The nation also declared they would not interfere in the development of Western Hemisphere colonies. They also ensured that colonialization would be prevented. As a result, they saw those actions as hostile. -
Election of 1824 - Corrupt Bargain
In the election of 1824, no presidential candidate received a majority of the total electoral votes. Thus, Congress turned to the House of Representatives to determine who would be the president. However, Henry Clay instituted a loose coalition in Congress to support John Quincy Adams. This event helped John Quincy Adams to get the popular vote from the House of Representatives. Andrew Jackson was furious by this bias made towards John Quincy Adams. He claimed this as the "Corrupt Bargain". -
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Age of Jackson
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Southern Society - (Planters) Duels
Although dueling disappeared in the North, it became a part of the Southern code of honor. They occurred when there were verbal disputes that needed to be dealt with. This was normally conducted by Southern white men with high social status. Although dueling was against the law in the South, it was not enforced. It was treated as a civil event, and that differences will be settled. Duels occurred through turns. Most people involved were often hurt greatly, or even later died due to it. -
Free Black Communities
During the Antebellum period, African Americans were able to express themselves. However, their rights were determined by if they were in the North or South. Free Southern blacks were unable to live as freely as their Northern counterparts. This was the case because the North no longer needed slavery for their economy. African Americans were able to unite at churches, which became their main place of comfort. They were able to state their opinion in print and represent the North in war. -
President John Quincy Adams - American System
In order to modernize the US economy, John Quincy Adams supported a program known as the "American System." The "American System" included funds for infrastructure development, tariffs to balance out inflation, and a support for a new national bank and currency. This mindset made John Quincy Adams be compared to John Adams. Surprisingly to some, John Adams is actually the biological parent to John Quincy Adams. These events sharply reduced the national debt from $16 million to $5 million. -
Edgar Allan Poe
Edgar Allan Poe was a famous poet that arose during the cultural changes of the Industrial Revolution. His life was filled with strife since early on in his childhood. He lost both of his parents at the age of three and was left to his heartless godfather. Poe's guardian was a gambler and often uses his neverending funds to fuel that addiction. The tragic background Poe grew up in inspired his dark horror stories. However, his caretaker's habits carried on to Poe. Which caused Poe's death. -
[Election of 1828] Democratic Mascot - Donkey
During the Election of 1828, the democratic party mascot was made. Andrew Jackson established the idea that the people should rule. Antagonizers stated that this would lead to anarchy. Consequently, those individuals called Andrew Jackson a "jackass" (Jack (son) ass). To their surprise, Andrew Jackson liked that nickname. He appreciated it so much that he used it a donkey on his campaign. Later in history, a cartoonist used the donkey to represent the Democratic Party. It is still used today. -
Early American Railroads
In America, the locomotive began in 1830. Which would later develop even further for the next two decades, linking the ctiies along the Eastern Coast with faster transportation. The invention also enabled the travel West, shortening months of travel into a matter of a couple days. This allowed immigration across the country to be much quicker and cheaper to do. With the support of thousands of tons in weight, the trains allow lots of goods with a high range of weights to be delivered at once -
Webster-Hayne Debate
This event was a debate between Daniel Webster and Robert Y Hayne. The two covered the subject of tariffs. A speech made by Webster which was called the "Second Reply to Hayne" became the most well-known speech out of the conflict. Webster's description of the United States government ("made for the people, made by the people, and answerable to the people.") influenced Abraham Lincoln in his presidency. Lincoln's famous speech at Gettysburg was affected by the circumstances that happened then. -
Church of Latter Day Saints
In 1823, a man named Joseph Smith claimed that he was visited by a Christian angel that spoke of Hebrew text that was lost for the past 1,500 years. The angel stated that the writing relayed the story of Israelite people who lived in America. He became ambitious to do whatever he can to accomplish this task set before him. The Church of Latter-Day Saints was founded in 1830. However, the Christian pressure proved to be too much. So, his successor led the people northwest to attain freedom. -
Anti-Slavery Movement
This movement pushed for the immediate emancipation for slaves and end of racial discrimination and segregation. Followers of this idea distinguished those who would go to extremes for the rights of African Americans than most other advocates. The idea of this campaign began from the passion involved in the Second Great Awakening. These people were called abolitionists, and they became prominent in Northern culture. Eventually, the North and South had beliefs that were too split apart. -
Nicholas Biddle
The rivalries for the Election of 1832 were between Andrew Jackson and Henry Clay. In order to win the national support, Henry Clay planned to antagonize Andrew Jackson's hatred towards the Second Bank of the United States. Thus, Henry Clay worked alongside Nicholas Biddle (the president of the United States' Second Bank) to renew the charter. Just as planned, Andrew Jackson vetoed the grant. However, Jackson laid out his vision for democracy. This made the general public to favor Jackson. -
Origin of the Crank Churn (Butter)
During the Industrial Revolution, the crank churn was made. In order to prepare butter faster, this invention was made. The creation was a cylindrical wooden tub with a cover. The cream was turned through the use of a plunger. It was later remodeled as a small barrel on top of a framework. This updated version came with a hand crank to revolve around itself. Like many other products, butter-making was originally done at the home. However, the new era mass produced churning in the city. -
(Slavery) Nat Turner's Rebellion [Slave Codes]
Nat Turner was a slave who led a rebellion. He realized at a young age that slavery was bad. On the plantation, Nat Turner was taught how to read. Nat Turner was deeply involved in religion, which influenced those around him. Years later, Nat Turner decided to start a rebellion. His insurrection was put down, and Virginia established slave codes. Slave codes are rules with the concept that slaves are property, not actual people. These laws justified the idea of slavery for property owners. -
Origination of the Old Kinderhook "OK" Nickname
In an edition of The Boston Morning Post, the term "O.K." was used. The meaning behind the two letters meant "oll korrect." Which was an intentional misspelling of "all correct." This was later used by politicians to express their cleverness. The next president after Andrew Jackson, Martin Van Buren, used this phrase to his advantage. He nicknamed himself the "Old Kinderhook" in commemoration of the publicity around the new expression, but he also did it because he lives in Kinderhook, New York. -
Charles Grandison Finney
Charles Grandison Finney was the main revivalist that took part in the Second Great Awakening. Unlike those who would combine economy and religion, Charles spread the idea that the people should take control of their own lives. His mindset accepted those from all forms of life: men, women, Caucasians and African Americans. He instituted new concepts called the "New Measures". This heightened the idea that society has lost their belief in God and that there is a way to believe once again. -
Life of Davy Crockett
During the War of 1812, Davy Crockett signed up to be a scout for the militia. He later got involved in a battle against the Creek Indians, which ended in a massacre. After the war, he became involved in politics. His involvement in the political sphere as part of the House of Representatives lasted for a couple of years. However, time passed and he grew tired of it. He decided to join the fight against Mexico for the Texas Revolution. A year passed, and he died at the Battle of the Alamo. -
1800s Temperance Movement
The Temperance Movement was an organized effort started in the 1800s to outlaw the consumption of alcoholic beverages. Many citizens were convinced that Americans live in an immoral manner. There was fear that God will not care for the United States anymore and these corrupted people would be a threat to the political system. However, the states resulted in the reduction of alcohol since a complete ban could not be agreed upon. Nonetheless, a black market began for these restricted goods. -
Morse Code and the Telegraph
Developed by a man known as Samuel Morse, the telegraph was made. The invention became the first long-distance communication available to mankind. This device worked through the use of electrical signals across a wire system. Which was sent to stations to be interpreted. Along with its creation, was a code to understand the sounds made. This new language was understood by dots and dashes, which resembled letters of the English alphabet. The creation enabled people to communicate at a faster pace -
Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna
A capable leader at a young age, Santa Anna gained a public figure during the war against Spain. He later became a presidential role for the new country, which took the form as a dictator. However, he started to have problems when the Mexican State Texas wanted independence. He became determined to crush the rebels and sent out his army. Thus, began the Mexican-American war. However, Santa Anna was ambushed and his army was annihilated. Santa Anna surrendered, and Texas got its independence. -
Westward Expansion - Native Americans
When American settlers moved westward to fulfill Manifest Destiny, the Native Americans were heavily affected. The United States made treaties so that the Natives would have a reserved area to stay (Even though they did not really have a choice). However, they compromise was broken because of settlers that went onto those reservations. When the Natives were designated to new lands, they were forced to assimilate to the American culture. This involved farming, Christianity, and education. -
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Westward Expansion
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Institution of the Asylums
With the energy involved with the Second Great Awakening, many institutions began for the sake of religion. One of those new ideas was the establishment of penitentiaries. Behind this development, a woman named Dorothea Dix was responsible for major changes. Due to the constant immigration from the fascination of the Industrial Revolution, more people came for economic possibilities. In Dix's mindset, she believed more mental hospitals had to be made for the amount of people. Thus, asylums began -
Sam Houston
With the conflict between Mexico and the United States, Sam Houston moved to Texas and became the commander of the local army. His guidance helped him defeat Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. This officially gave Texas independence from the reign of Mexico. Inspired by his efforts in the war, Sam Houston was voted to be the president before Texas' annexation. He also became the senator of Texas when it became a state. During this time, Sam Houston issued no violence against Mexico or the Indians -
Brigham Young
Baptized into the Church of Latter-Day Saints, Brigham Young carried on Joseph Smith's passion after he was assassinated. He did this because he was chosen as the new leader for the Mormons. When the threat of Christianity became too harmful to the faith, Brigham decided to migrate the people to the Northeast. His travels were successful, and he became the governor of land in modern-day Utah. He made people feel inclined to convert by his efforts that made the immigration process easier. -
Annexation of Texas
Although Texas freed itself from the reign of Mexico, several years passed before it became a state. Due to the Southern settlers that encompassed the land, it most likely will result in Texas officially claimed as a slave state. Thus, the United States Congress put the annexation on hold until there was a free state. So, the Missouri Compromise can be fulfilled. Eventually, Texas became part of the United States. However, this split apart the nation further over the institution of slavery. -
Growing Cities - Metropolises
Metropolises are densely populated commercial cities that were made during the Industrial Revolution. They were supported by the increase in agricultural productivity. Alongside the development of the city, the inventions of that era supported the farms. The cities and farms grew with help from each other. Immigration was a part of this new development. More people called for more space necessary for housing. Thus, the bigger populated cities expanded. It was then coined as metropolises. -
Bear Flag Revolt
Before California became part of the United States, there was much tension between Mexico and America. The land was controlled by Mexico but dominated by American settlers. Thus, there was a better probability that the territory would soon be owned by America. A man by the name of John C. Fremont encouraged an insurrection. Consequently, a party of Americans started skirmishes, which later became known as the Bear Flag Revolt. After the Mexican-American War, California was annexed as a state. -
Seneca Falls Convention
This gathering became the first convention for women's rights. The meeting took place in Seneca Falls, New York. Led by Elizabeth Cady Stanton, the people assembled discussed resolutions for rights allowed for women. The group were only able to pass one of those documents: suffrage. Nonetheless, Elizabeth wrote a manifesto that described women's grievances and demands from inspiration. It called on the equality granted by the Constitution to fight back the abuses society makes women go through. -
Wilmot Proviso
After the Mexican-American War, James K. Polk was in the process of negotiation for the treaty. In fear of another pro-slave territory, a congressman named David Wilmot proposed an amendment that stated no slavery passed the Mississippi River. This was heavily opposed by the Senates of the Southern states. Overall, this eventually made the controversy of slavery more popular in the nation. Wilmot's Proviso inspired other anti-slavery politicians, which led to the beginning of the Civil War. -
California Gold Rush - Chinese Immigrants
When gold was discovered in the state of California, many people around the world came for the riches. During this time, China's economy had crumbled. Thus, many Chinese men came to America in hope for wealth. However, they were not welcomed because they replaced possibilities for the United States to prosper. So, they were made to pay a high tax in order to stay in California. The people also became prone to attacks by the Americans. Sadly, there was no protection offered because of favoritism. -
Whig Party
This political group formed during the Jacksonian era. Its founding father was Henry Clay, who antagonized Andrew Jackson for his reign similar to an aristocracy. Whigs are interpreted as the party for the minority. However, the people later split apart into different views. Every person started to favor extremes of controversy. Overall, the group's goals were influenced by its leader. The Whig Party eventually disintegrated but later reformed itself into their contemporary Republican party. -
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Sectional Crisis
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Uncle Tom's Cabin
A woman by the name of Harriet Beecher Stowe helped establish the foundation of the Civil War. She encountered fugitive slaves and the Underground in her travels. Her book known as Uncle Tom's Cabin was her experience towards the treatment of African Americans. It became very popular for anti-slavery Americans and became her famous writing. This inspired president Abraham Lincoln to institute the end of slavery. Harriet eventually became one of the public figures in the history of the Civil War. -
Franklin Pierce
Early on his life, Franklin Pierce became involved in politics. He was once part of the United States' House of Representatives and Senate. However, he became too ill and rested at home. After he took part in the Mexican-American War, Franklin Pierce gained respect from the Democratic Party. Franklin Pierce eventually won the presidential candidate of 1852. At the beginning of his term, the nation was in economic prosperity. However, the North and South became more intensified later on. -
Know-Nothings
The origination of the Know-Nothings began in response to the increased immigration from the Industrial Revolution. Their goal was to preserve the American culture from these influences and antagonized foreign groups. This held especially for the Roman Catholics from Ireland and Italy for their own traditions. In 1854, the Know-Nothings ran for office for state legislation. They eventually gained enough support for it to nominate itself for the presidency but failed to get the majority of people -
Crittenden Compromise
Before the Civil War began, a senator named John J. Crittenden proposed solutions in response to the secession of the South. He hoped that the states would come back to the Union so that war would be avoided. The compromise proposed that slavery would stay, but the limitations made by the Missouri Compromise would be reevaluated. This got popular support from the South, but the Northerners outnumbered them. Although the war would be delayed, the South would grow in power if it was passed. -
Robert E Lee
Due to his military expertise shown at John Brown's raid, Robert E Lee accelerated through the ranks and became the general of the Confederate Army in the Civil War. His leadership helped the new nation defend itself against the Union. However, the Battle of Gettysburg cut a third of Lee's army due to poor coordination during the fight. Afterwards, Ulysses S Grant pushed forwards against the weakened South. The Union won countless battles, which caused Lee to surrender at Appomattox Court House -
Fort Sumter
This stronghold was located on an island, which was the first battle of the Civil War. When South Carolina seceded from the Union, there was still Union troops in the area. The leader decided that they would defend Fort Sumter. The new Confederate state sent its troops to attack. The soldiers were forced to retreat. In view of this, President Abraham Lincoln saw that this new nation was in a state of insurrection. These chain of events became the cause of thousands to die in bloody warfare. -
Suspension of Habeas Corpus
Habeas corpus is the law that a person under arrest can go to court or see a judge to secure his or her release. However, Abraham Lincoln suspended that right in order to prevent insurrections in the North. This caused many citizens to be heavily restricted during the Civil War. A federal judge stated that President Lincoln did not have that authority. Years later, the Supreme Court agreed to that claim with their own opinion. They declared that only Congress has the jurisdiction over the right. -
Cotton Embargo Act
In the South, cotton is the main part of their economy. The states prosper because they provide the most amount of cotton across the whole world. Since Great Britain was still a very powerful nation, the Confederacy wanted the country on their side. With full acknowledgment that Britain relies on cotton for their industry, the South instituted an embargo on cotton. However, this backfired. Britain was able to find much more cotton in India and decided that it was unnecessary to help the South. -
Clara Barton
When the Civil War, Clara Barton felt an urgency to help those in need. Although she did not have any formal training as a nurse, she did whatever she can to help the American cause. Clara Barton realized that the soldiers were in most need at the front lines. So, she decided to travel with the Union Army to provide help to those who are in battle. After she endured much experience in warfare, she instituted the American Red Cross. The association assists those in war and natural disasters. -
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The Civil War
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The Gettysburg Address
When Abraham Lincoln was invited to Gettysburg, he saw an opportunity that will make the people aware of how important the war is. Although his speech was rather short, he was able to redefine the Civil War as a principle of human equality rather than a bitter rivalry between the Confederates and the Union. What came to be known as the Gettysburg Address, received countless newspaper across the country. Historians claimed this as the most well known oratorical piece of American history. -
Emancipation Proclamation
Initially, Abraham Lincoln's mindset did not focus on the freedom of slaves. The Civil War was mainly for the Southern states to rejoin the Union. However, the apparent numbers of African Americans that fled the Confederacy made Lincoln realize that abolition would help make the North be determined to fight. For it would not only help the numbers of the Union but also appeal to a mentality that is morally correct. Thus, he instituted the Emancipation Proclamation - which would free all slaves. -
Ulysses S Grant
Known for his bravery in the Civil War, Grant became a war hero. Thus, he gained political support in the Election of 1828 and became president. His mindset was like that of Lincoln: make the Southern states stay in the Union and protect African American rights. However, he was met with many predicaments. When he tries to intervene on prevention of African American rights, he is charged for violation of states' rights. There was also economic devastation later recognized as the Panic of 1873 -
John Wilkes Booth
John Wilkes Booth grew up in Maryland. Like many others who lived in Maryland, John Wilkes Booth supported slavery. Thus, the abolitionist mindset of John Brown infuriated him. After the event of the raid on Harper's Ferry and the later election of Abraham Lincoln, many states seceded. However, John Wilkes Booth could not take endure it any longer when Abraham Lincoln instituted martial law in the state of Maryland. This inspired Booth to plan an assassination against Lincoln, and he succeeded. -
Lincoln's 10% Plan
During the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln realized that plans should be for reconstruction after the conflicts ended. He knew that he can compromise with the Confederacy because many sections of the South has been taken over. Plus, a couple of states wanted to be part of the Union again. So, he instituted his Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconstruction. Which is also known as "Lincoln's 10% Plan." However, his plan was way too modest with the South and led to much corruption after the Civil War. -
Vagrancy Laws from the Black Codes
Slavery was officially abolished after the Civil War because of the 13th amendment. Since the South was not heavily restricted from Lincoln's 10% Plan, the Southern states were able to institute laws that went around the 13th amendment. These laws came to be known as the Black codes. Which limited the freedom of African Americans. High prices for African Americans and laws against vagrancy proved plantation use the only job source. These African Americans then became a cheap labor force. -
The New South - The Lost Cause
The Southern states seceded from the Union to preserve slavery. However, many Confederate leaders continuously made justifications why they lost the war. Which was called the "Lost Cause." The Confederacy did not admit defeat and believed they were just overwhelmed. They even said that the Civil War was not about slavery, and it was about states' rights. Lastly, the Southern states made Robert E Lee a war hero. That his actions were courageous, and that the prevention of blacks' rights was just. -
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Reconstruction
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Scalawags
This term is used for White Republicans in the South. They were mainly part of the planter society and believed that whites should recognize African Americans' rights. These people were former Whigs and once had relations to the Union. The main goal of this group was to prevent anti-black attitudes to spread throughout the postwar United States. However, they were antagonized throughout the country for their unpopular viewpoint. Scalawags were often concerned as traitors in the Southern society -
President Andrew Johnson Impeached
Andrew Johnson became the president after Abraham Lincoln. His mindset was very lenient, he carried total acceptance towards the Southern culture. Thus, the Black Codes were able to be passed quite easily due to his legislation. Due to his backward method of Reconstruction, many Republicans despised him. They enacted a law that stated officials approved of by the Senate will not be removed by the President. However, Andrew Johnson ignored this law. Consequently, the Senate impeached him. -
Compromise of 1877
In the later part of the Reconstruction era, the Republican mindset was on the decline. Although this was the case, the Democratic party missed one vote for the election. The Republican party did not want to let go the success they had. So, a compromise was made. The Democratic party will allow the Republican party to have their candidate as the president. If, they rid of Union troops in Southern territory. The Compromise of 1877 was passed, which ultimately helped the South than the North.
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