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On July 4, the American colonies officially declared their independence from British rule. This historic document, primarily authored by Thomas Jefferson, asserted the colonies' right to self-governance and outlined the principles of individual liberty. -
The Siege of Yorktown culminated in October 1781, leading to the surrender of British General Cornwallis. This decisive victory effectively ended major military operations in the Revolutionary War, paving the way for American independence. -
The Constitutional Convention convened in Philadelphia to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. The resulting document established the framework for the U.S. government and created a system of checks and balances. -
The first ten amendments to the Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights, were ratified to protect individual liberties. These amendments guaranteed essential rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and the press. -
The United States acquired approximately 828,000 square miles of territory from France for $15 million. This significant land deal doubled the size of the nation and opened the way for westward expansion. -
The War of 1812 was fought between the United States and Great Britain, primarily over maritime rights and trade restrictions. Although the war ended in a stalemate, it fostered a sense of American nationalism and unity. -
This act, signed by President Andrew Jackson, authorized the forced relocation of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands. The policy led to the infamous Trail of Tears, where thousands of Native Americans suffered greatly during their removal. -
The U.S. entered a conflict with Mexico, driven by territorial expansion and the desire for California and New Mexico. The war ended with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, resulting in significant territorial gains for the United States. -
The Supreme Court ruled in Dred Scott v. Sandford that African Americans were not considered U.S. citizens and could not sue in federal court. This controversial decision further inflamed tensions over slavery and contributed to the sectional divide. -
Abraham Lincoln was elected as the 16th president of the United States, running on a platform opposing the expansion of slavery. His election prompted several Southern states to secede from the Union, setting the stage for the Civil War.