The First Half of American History By shawteeh Oct 12, 1492 Columbus reaches the shores of the New World Aug 1, 1619 The First African slaves are sold to Virgina planters Sep 7, 1754 The French & Indian War begins Started 1754 Ended 1763 Mar 5, 1770 Thomas Paine publishes Common Sense Dec 16, 1773 The sons of Liberty throw the Boston Tea Party Jul 4, 1776 Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence Nov 15, 1777 Congress adopts the Articles of Confederation Sep 17, 1787 The U.S. Constitution is adopted Apr 30, 1789 George Washington is elected the first president Sep 7, 1791 Congress frames the Bill of Rights May 14, 1804 Lewis & Clark Expedition Started 1804 Ended September 23 1815 Jun 18, 1812 The War of 1812 begins Started in 1812 Ended March 23 1815 Sep 7, 1817 work begins in Erie Canal Built between 1817 - 1825 Dec 22, 1828 Andrew Jackson is elected president Sep 7, 1832 The Nuification Crisis occurs Sep 7, 1854 The republican party is found Sep 7, 1861 The civi war breaks out Started 1861 Ended 1865 Mar 2, 2022 Leif Ericson explores Vinland