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The Headright System
The Headright system was established in 1618 by the English to attract new settlers to the colonies. The system rewarded survivors of the very first colonies 100 acres of land. All new settlers received 50 acres of land. If you could not afford the passage many people pooled their money, if you paid for the passage of others you also received 50 acres. The system was aimed towards commoners who would never have their own land in England. -
The exile of Roger Williams and Anne Hutchinson
Roger Williams and Anna Hutchinson were the first people to be exiled in the colonies. Williams was exiled for believing in the separation of church and state. Hutchinson was exiled for leading a women only bible study. Their exile is significant because they started a new colony, “Rhode Island”. The first of the colonies with true religious freedom. Colonial reaction shows that the colonies were not as free as they had claimed. -
Bacon's Rebellion
Bacon Rebellion took place in Virginia from 1676-1677. Nathaniel Bacon, an ex-member of the council led an army to restore voting rights of men who did not own land. The rebellion highlighted the social tension in Virginia during that time period. Because only a small group of men owned a majority of the land, slaves, and offices. The rebellion ultimately failed and led to the further social divide between African Americans and White people. -
The invention of the steam engine
The steam engine was invented by James Watt in the 18th century and changed American history dramatically. The steam engine revolutionized transportation by powering steam boats and increased trade of manufactured products. It transformed manufacturing because it allowed factories to operate on a larger scale and mass produce goods. The steam engine had a huge impact on the growth of industry, infrastructure, and trade in the United States. -
The First Great Awakening
The Great Awakening was a new group of ministers who infused teachings with personal stories. The colonists enjoyed this new way of prayer. The ministers preached equality, literacy, and charity. The colonists all shared deep religious conviction. The Awakening created deep divisions in denominations within the Christian faith. Two famous leaders of the Great Awakening were George Whitefield and Jonathan Edwards. -
The Boston Massacre
The Boston Massacre occurred in 1770 in Boston, Massachusetts. 5 soldiers were set to guard the custom house when colonists began to throw things and insult the guards. The guards got so fed up that they eventually fired into the crowds, leaving 5 dead. The news of a massacre spread rapidly throughout the colonies, causing uproar. Boston was one of the main catalysts leading up to the Revolutionary War. -
Boston Tea Party
The Boston Tea Party occurred in Boston, Massachusetts in 1773. It was led by a group called “Sons of Liberty '' who advocated for independence from Great Britain. The group met in a local tavern, dressed up like native Americans, and stormed a ship in the harbor. While on board the ship they threw $1.5 million dollars worth of tea into the harbor. The protest set the stage for the Revolutionary War between America and Great Britain. -
The Olive Branch Petition
The olive branch petition was adopted by congress on July 5, 1775. The petition stated that colonists will come back and by loyal British subjects but wanted representation in Parliament. It was the last formal address to the king by the colonists before declaring war. The petition declared the colonists loyalty to Britain. -
Common Sense
Common Sense was a book written by Thomas Paine. The book was written in common speech advocating for the independence of the colonies from Great Britain. Hundreds of copies were sold and it became very popular. It made logical and emotional arguments. It can be classified as a work for propaganda that supported the independence of the 13 colonies. -
Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. It declared the 13 American colonies to be independent states, no longer under the rule of Great Britain. It outlined the reasons for seeking independence, asserting the natural rights of all individuals, such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The declaration inspired the Revolutionary war, ultimately leading to the creation of the United States. -
The Battle of Saratoga
The Battle of Saratoga occurred on September 19, 177 and was a turning point in the Revolutionary War. Patriot troops forced the surrender of 10,000 British soldiers. The result of the battle was published in newspapers and magazines across the nation. The battle leveled the playing field and boosted morale for the patriots. -
The Articles of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation served as the nation's first written document that stated the functions of the national government. They were signed and put into use shortly after the United States declared independence from Great Britain in 1777. The articles had success in creating powerful state governments. They failed when it came to the federal government because there was no executive, federal military, and could not collect federal taxes. -
The Battle of Yorktown
The Battle of Yorktown took place on September 28, 1781. General Cornwallis led southern troops. Cornwallis retreated every time they were attacked to lore Washington in. He was trying to get Washington to be in Yorktown in the winter so that they would not be able to survive. The British navy in Yorktown was captured by the French Navy. Yorktown was the last major battle of the Revolutionary and Cornwallis surrendered. -
The Treaty of Paris
The Treaty of Paris was signed in 1783 and officially ended the revolutionary war. Area south of the Great Lakes became U.S territory. The British had no more claim over America and the United States was officially independent. It declared each colony as an independent state. The petition also created an eternal friendship between America and France. -
Shay’s Rebellion
Shay’s Rebellion was led by a farmer named Daniel Shay on August 29 ,1786. Shay was angered because banks were taking substance farmers land to repay debts. He gathered 5,000 farmers to rebel against the Massachusetts government. The men formed mobs to protest and attacked the courts. The rebellion shows the failures of the Articles of Confederation because the federal government could not do anything to stop the rebellion. -
Constitution
The Constitution is a very important document that was adopted in 1787, and serves as the foundation of the U.S government. It outlines the structure of government, powers of each branch, and the rights of the people. It established a system of checks and balances, shaping the country into what it is today. The constitution is important because it has ensured the stability of democracy in the United States. -
The 3/5 Compromise
The 3/5 compromise was a provision of the U.S constitution that determined how enslaved people would be counted in terms of taxes. It stated that each slave would be counted as 3/5 of a person. The compromise strengthened the institution of slavery by stating that slaves were less human than white people. It gave disproportionate political power to states with large slave populations. -
The Northwest Ordinance
The Northwest Ordinance was created in 1787. It split up northwest territories into 5 different territories. The ordinance defined boundaries of the new land. Territories could elect territorial legislature once the population reached 5,000. Once the population reached 60,000 territories could apply to become a state. The Northwest Ordinance banned slavery in the Northwest territories. -
The Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights is a set of the first ten amendments to the U.S Constitution. It was added in 1791 and guaranteed the certain fundamental rights and freedoms of the American people. It protects individual liberties such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial. The Bill of Rights is very important to American history because it ensures the rights of the people are upheld. -
The Cotton Gin
The Cotton gin was invented by Eli Whitney in the late 18th century. It removed seeds from cotton fiber, making the production of cotton much faster and profitable. The cotton gin was very impactful because it led to a boom in cotton production throughout the south. It also led to the explosion of slavery in the south due to the expansion of the cotton industry. -
Treaty of Greenville
The Treaty of Greenville was created under the Washington presidency. In the treaty, American negotiators acknowledged that the western land did in fact belong to the Indians. The Native Americans agreed to place themselves under the protection of the United States. The threats sparked migration into Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennessee. The American government encouraged Native Americans to assimilate to white society. -
The Alien and Sedition Acts
The Alien and Sedition Acts were a series of laws passed in 1798 by the U.S congress. The Alien Act gave the president the rights to deport any alien considered dangerous. The Naturalization Act increased the amount of time immigrants had to live in the U.S before becoming citizens to 14 years. The Sedition Act made it illegal for newspapers to print any material that is critical of the president/congress. -
Marbury vs. Madison
Marbury vs. Madison is one of the most important court cases in the history of our judicial system. The supreme court found the law in which Admas had appointed Marbury federal judgeship to be “unconstitutional”. The courts invented the right to Judicial Review. Judicial Review gives courts the power to strike down laws if they are found unconstitutional. -
The Louisiana Purchase
The Louisiana Purchase was made by President Thomas Jefferson in 1803 . It occurred when Jefferson wanted to buy New Orleans from Napoleon so he sent someone to offer 3 million dollars. Napoleon said no, he only wanted to sell the whole Louisiana territory for 15 million dollars. This caused Jefferson great stress because he was a strict constructionist. Jefferson ended up purchasing the whole Louisiana territory, doubling the size of the nation. Each acre in the territory only cost 4 cents. -
The Lewis and Clark Expedition
The Lewis and Clark Expedition was a ground-breaking journey that took place between 1804-1806. It was led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, and tasked by President Thomas Jefferson after the Louisiana Purchase. Jefferson hired them to explore the new territory of the United States after the purchase. The goal was to find a practical route to the Pacific Ocean and collect animal and plant specimens. -
The Embargo of 1807
The Embargo of 1807 was a general trade embargo that was enacted by the U.S Congress under the Jefferson Presidency. It was created while Great Britain and France were at war. The British demanded that the U.S to stop trading with the French and France demanded the same thing. The Act banned all foreign trade and immediately tanked the economy. It was unpopular among merchants, but boosted the growth of domestic manufacturing. -
The Star Spangled Banner
The Star Spangled Banner is the national anthem of the United States. It was written by Francis Scott Key during the war of 1812. Key was being kept prisoner on a British Naval Vessel and watched the British bombard Fort McHenry for 12 hours. In the morning after the battle, Key saw the American flag still flying over the fort. This inspired him to write a poem called, “The defense of Fort McHenry”. The poem was out to music and became the national anthem in 1931. -
The Second Great Awakening
The Second Great Awakening took place between the years of 1820 and 1840. It was started by Charles Finney and Lyman Beecher. Before this awakening the church did not support the idea of self-made destiny. They thought that God had created you to be the same your whole life and there was no opportunity for social or religious change. The awakening changed all of this starting with the involvement of women in the church. -
Nat Turner's Rebellion
Turner's Rebellion caused Virginia's legislature to debate a law for graduate emancipation but it failed. William Lloyd Garrison was a very passionate abolitionist who created an anti-slavery newspaper called Genius of Universal Emancipation. The movement sparked some radical protests. David Walker called for a violent rebellion in which slaves revolted against their masters. Nat Turner's Rebellion took place in 1831. During the rebellion slaves killed over 50 white people. -
The Battle of the Alamo
The Battle of the Alamo was a major battle during the war where many Texan soldiers were killed, and the battle was lost. After the war was over Texans voted for the annexation of Texas into the United States. After being annexed, arguments arose over where the border of Texas would lie. -
The Mexican American War
The Mexican American War was declared after American soldiers were killed on the disputed land. The war lasted from 1845-1848, very quickly into the war the Mexican military became overwhelmed, leading to the capturing of Mexico City by American troops. -
The Compromise of 1850
The Compromise of 1850 was created by Henry Clay to ease tensions about new western territories. It had 4 main parts. The first major part was the acknowledgment of California entering the union as a free state. The second being the slave trade being abolished in Washington D.C. The third being strict fugitive slave laws being enacted throughout the nation. The final part of the compromise was the requirement of territories applying for statehood to be governed by Popular Sovereignty. -
Bleeding Kansas
Bleeding Kansas occurred when Kansas was being fought over by the abolitionist North and the pro-slavery South. In order to determine Kansas a free or a slave state a vote was held by the state. Unfortunately the vote took a turn for the worse when pro-slavery forces in neighboring state Missouri took over the town square. They fraudulently filled out ballots in favor of pro-slavery. Kansas was accepted into the union as a slave state. -
Dred Scott Case
The case of Dred Scott was a landmark supreme court case that worsened the tensions between pro-slavery and abolitionist. Dred Scott was a slave who sued the federal court for his freedom. The chief justice did not grant Scott freedom and ruled that black people had no rights that white people had to respect. This enraged the north because it meant that people could own slaves in free states as long as they had owned them previously. -
The U.S Sanitary Commission
The U.S Sanitary Commission was created in 1861 by wealthy New York residents. The commission was an organization that provided Union troops with volunteer medical aid, clothing, and food. The Woman's Loyal National League was created in 1863. The organization supported Union war efforts and boosted women's patriotism throughout the North, in hopes of gaining voting rights after the war. The Union's methods were effective because they raised patriotism in the North. -
The Anaconda Plan
The Anaconda Plan was created by Admiral Scott for the Union Army. The plan was created to blockade the coast of the confederacy, sail down the Mississippi, and split up the confederate states. This plan was created in hopes to weaken the Confederacy rapidly and point out their weaknesses.. The plan caused inflation in the South, causing southern families to struggle financially. -
The Pacific Railway Act of 1862
The Pacific Railway Act of 1862 was created by President Lincoln and created the Transcontinental Railroad. The purpose of the railroad was to connect the Atlantic and Pacific coast of the United States. This was a very expensive project for the government and required a lot of funding. Two privately owned railroad companies were chosen to work on the railroad at the same time from opposite ends of the country. -
The Homestead Act
The Homestead Act was created in 1862 and encouraged settlers to move out west by offering free land. The Act created mass settlement to the West, but also created conflict with Native Americans. The government was giving land to settlers that had once been previously occupied by Native Americans. Native Americans were forced to live on reservations and were treated very poorly by the U.S government. -
Emancipation Proclamation
Lincoln's decision to issue the Emancipation Proclamation changed the purpose of the war because it pointed out the real reason for the war, unity. It shifted the focus from abolishing slavery to unifying the nation. This had a very significant impact on the European countries because it caused Britain and France to join the Union’s side in the civil war. It made European countries more difficult to support the confederacy because they supported slavery. This weakened the South's economy. -
The 10% Plan
The 10% Plan more formally known as the Proclamation of Amnesty and Reconstruction (1863), was created by President Lincoln. The proclamation stated that any confederate leaders and officers were pardoned. Any state could be readmitted once at least 10% of its voters swore an oath of loyalty. States were required to form new state constitutions that outlawed slavery. -
The Battle of Gettysburg
The Battle of Gettysburg was very important because it was the beginning of the end for the Confederates. After General Lee was defeated, southern troops were forever weakened. It shifted the goals of the Confederates from winning independence to defending their land. The Union victory at Gettysburg and Vicksburg was a military and political turning point. The battles boosted the morale of the Union and also determination to preserve the unity of the nation -
Gettysburg Address
Lincoln presented the Gettysburg Address in 1863. The address reminded citizens of the United States core principles of equality and liberty to connect the struggle of the Civil War to the American Identity. He called for a new birth of freedom and honored soldiers and the sacrifices they made in order to preserve a democratic nation. The Gettysburg address was very impact because it connected the core values of American citizens and helped create a desire for unity in the nation. -
13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments
The 13th Amendment banned slavery and required southern states to accept it before re-joining the Union. The 14th Amendment extended citizenship to everyone born on U.S soil including slaves and required all citizens to be treated equally under the law. The 15th Amendment extended voting rights to all citizens regardless of race. -
The Freedmen's Bureau
The Freedmen's Bureau was created to help newly freed slaves transition to a new life of freedom. It was created in 1865 right after the Civil War. The bureau started schools, negotiated labor contracts, secured loans, helped purchase land, and provided legal aid to those who needed it. -
Sharecropping
Sharecropping was an economic system that was created after slavery was abolished. It was an economic system that emerged because of the need for jobs of freed slaves in the South. Landowners needed laborers for their farms but had no money to pay workers, so freedmen would work on the land and get to live there for free in return. Sharecropping was very damaging to freed people because it was essentially economic slavery. -
Jim Crow laws
Jim Crow laws were created in the South that ensured social segregation in transportation, accommodations, schools, and courts. The laws legalized segregation and restricted the civil rights of black people. Jim Crow laws lead to years of discrimination of African Americans in the south. -
The Comstock Act
The Comstock Act was passed in 1873 and was created by Anthony Comstock. The Act prohibited the circulation of information about sex or contraception. This reflected American life in the industrial era because America was afraid of the industrialization of pornography and contraceptives. The act was popularized by American parents who were fearful of sexual information to be sent via mail. -
The Election of 1876
The election of 1876 marked the end of the reconstruction era. The election was between Republican Hayes and Democrat Tilden. There were claims of voter fraud for Tilden so a recount was required. Congress was required to determine a winner. A negotiation took place and resulted in Hayes being granted president as long as military presence was removed from the South. This created problems because the president was weak and the lack of military oversight in the south led to a number of problems. -
The Indian wars
“The Indian wars' ' resulted in many massacres that killed many Native Americans. Wounded Knee, Battle of Little Big Horn, and Sand Creek Massacre were all very significant. The creation of reservations for Native Americans in the West were not helpful to Natives, because it constricted them to one plot of land. The natives were used to living a migratory lifestyle, not used to being confined. Tribes were being torn apart and conflicts even broke out between different tribes. -
The Dawes Act
The Dawes Act was created in 1877 and gave Native Americans the opportunity to claim homesteads of 160 acres to own and farm. The land that was offered was being taken from the Indian Reservations. If the land was not taken by the Natives, then it would be available for white settlers. The act looked like a great opportunity from the outside but caused great social destruction among Native tribes. The separation of the people in the tribes slowly distinguished the culture of Native Americans. -
The Yellow fever
Yellow fever broke out in Memphis, Tennessee in 1878, killing 12% of the population. The combination of horrible sanitation, sewage systems, and drinking water conditions directly related to the infancy death rate. A baby born in the 1900’s city environment had a 1 in 3 chance of dying in infancy. Because of the conditions reformers fought to make cities cleaner, safer, and healthier for citizens to live in. -
The Homestead Strike
The Homestead Strike took place on July 6th, 1892. Andrew Carnegie purchased a steel mill outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The mill ramped up production of Steel in case of strike, because of this accidents were frequent. During the strike 2000 Steel Workers barricaded the front of the plant to stop scabs. Frick brought in Pinkerton's to stop the barricade. As a result, nine steel workers were killed. The strike raised awareness for worker rights and safety. -
Plessy v. Ferguson
Plessy v. Ferguson was a landmark supreme court case in 1896. The case upheld racial segregation in the United States as long as it was “separate but equal”. Homer Plessy was an African American mom who challenged the segregation of railroad cars in Louisiana. He was arrested and took his case all the way to the supreme court. The case is significant because it legitimized racial segregation and discrimination for decades. -
The De Lome Letter
The De Lome Letter began circulating after the U.S and Spain had disagreements over Cuba. It was written by the Spanish stating that they had no intention to honor the deal. The letter mocked the actions of President McKinley, which angered him and the citizens of the US. A copy of the letter made it to the newspapers and was published by William Randolph Hearst, publicly humiliating McKinley. The publication helped generate support for the war with Spain over the issue of Cuba. -
The Battle of San Juan Hill
The Battle of San Juan Hill was one of the most decisive battles in the Spanish-American War. The battle occured on July 1, 1898 near Santiago de Cuba. American forces, led by Colonel Theodore Roosevelt, fought against Spanish troops. The battle was part of the larger goal to capture Santiago de Cuba. The American forces faced intense resistance and had to overcome steep terrain to secure their victory. The battle showcased the bravery and determination of the American soldiers. -
The Portsmouth Treaty
The Portsmouth Treaty refers to the peace agreement signed in 1905 between Russia and Japan, mediated by President Theodore Roosevelt. The treaty ended the Russo-Japanese War and had several impacts. It recognized Japan as a major power in East Asia, leading to a shift in the balance of power in the region. It also secured territorial gains for Japan, including control over Korea and parts of Manchuria. -
The invention of the Ford automobile
Henry Ford introduced the Model T Ford automobile in 1908 for $850. Before the Ford automobile, cars had been around but we're very expensive. He created the automated assembly line and reduced the time to produce from 12 hours to 90 minutes. The price was reduced to $280. Ford offered workers better wages, shorter hours, and weekends. This led to expansion in the steel, glass, iron, oil, and construction business. -
The Great Migration
The Great Migration was a migrational movement of African Americans from the South to the North during WWI. After the U.S declared war, large numbers of white men joined the military, leaving their manufacturing jobs vacant. This caused many problems because manufacturing needs increased due to the increasing demand of war supplies. Because of the large demand and no one to fill the jobs in the north, thousands of African Americans relocated to the north. -
The Triangle Shirtwaist Fire
The Triangle Shirtwaist Fire occurred on March 25, 1911 was a very pivotal movement in the progressive era. The fire caused the labor code of New York State and the adoption of fire safety measures. The safety codes were then applied to the whole country. The event created public awareness for the poor working conditions that factory workers were subjected to. The fire started multiple union movements that wanted to improve working conditions. -
The Zimmerman Telegram
The Zimmerman Telegram was written by Germany to Mexico expressing that they would back them in order to defeat the US. The letter was intercepted and the deal was known to the public. the United States took this as a threat and join the war on the side of the allies. The Zimmerman telegram was the main spark for the United states to join WWI. -
The Espionage Act of 1917
The Espionage Act of 1917 was a law passed by the U.S. Congress during World War I. It aimed to prevent interference with military operations and to prohibit support for the country's enemies. The impact of this act was significant as it led to the suppression of dissent and the curtailment of civil liberties. It allowed for the prosecution of individuals who were deemed to be engaging in activities that undermined the war effort. -
The Red Scare
The Red Scare was caused by a number of reasons, two of them being the fear of communist infiltration, and the rise of Senator Joseph McCarthy. It led to a period of intense suspicion and persecution, with many people being accused of being communists without any evidence. The creation of the Loyalty-Security Program that permitted officials to investigate any employee of the government. This made people afraid to speak out or express their opinions for fear of being labeled a communist. -
The Creel Committee
The Creel Committee was created in April 1917. George Creel was head of the Committee on Public information. The committee was backed by President Wilson, their job was to sell World War I and goals to the American public. They sold war bonds and convinced people to work war jobs. They played a role in demonizing the enemy and shaping behaviors to support the war. They created the “4 Minute Men”, who gave messages about war bonds and War messaging at public functions. -
Wilson's 14 Points
Wilson's 14 Points were a set of principles outlined by President Woodrow Wilson in 1918 as a proposed framework for peace negotiations after World War I. They aimed to address the causes of the war and promote lasting peace. The impact of these points was significant as they laid the groundwork for the Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations. They influenced the post-war settlement and shaped the development of international relations in the 20th century. -
The 18th Amendment
The 18th Amendment was passed on January 16, 1919. The legal provisions started the Prohibition in the United States. Americans who supported prohibition believed that alcohol was the root to all social problems. Most times men of the family would get drunk and cause hardship on the women of the household. Prohibition was the banning of all production, sale, and consumption of alcohol in the United States. -
Treaty of Versailles
The Treaty of Versailles embodied the 14 points because it did stop Germany from starting another war, temporarily at least. It completely laid all blame on Germany and forced the destruction of their own armed forces. The Germans were forced to pay 33 Billion dollars in war repairs which completely destroyed their economy and country as a whole. Overall the Treaty of Versailles was not at all successful as the 14 points would have been. -
The Harlem Renaissance
The Harlem Renaissance established new black communities within cities. Black artistic expression flourished and black journalists, poets, musicians, and artists created work to express their emotions. Jazz music became very popular and was created by African American communities. -
The Immigration Act of 1924
The Immigration Act of 1924 established systematic discrimination of immigrants based on the rate of immigration from their home countries. It limited the number of immigrants who came to the U.S by only 2% of the number of people in the country in 1890. It caused tension between American citizens and immigrants because it was threatening to immigrants. After WWII, immigrant policies made a shift. The policies became more inclusive and understanding of immigrants. -
The Great Depression
After WWI, the United States became a credit nation and provided loans to countries experiencing depression. Ballooning the stock market led to too much speculation in the economy and people got scared of losing money, investing in less stocks. People began to rack up personal debt when buying on credit allowed people to buy more things beyond what they would afford. The stock market ultimately crashed in 1929 causing economic uproar. -
The Dust Bowl
The Dust Bowl occurred in Oklahoma, Texas, Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, and many other states. It causes economic and environmental struggles. Soil was overused due to single crop farming in the plains. This caused the soil to turn into dusty sand, drought and strong winds created a world of chaos. Sandstorms blew dust making it very hard to farm and very dangerous to live. Crops turned to dust so there was little to no food to be sent out to the cities. Food became very scarce. -
The New Deal
The New Deal aimed at creating new agencies and programs to protect people from economic disaster. It was a package of legislative works that provided relief or temporary work for the American people. The F.D.I.C declared all banks to close and be inspected, if they were healthy they would be able to reopen. The S.E.C regulated trading practices in stocks and bonds. -
The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934
The Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 was created by FDR in the New Deal. It prohibited the selling of Native land while also giving some back to their original tribes. With the ban of buying and selling of their land they could settle down and not worry about their homes being moved once again. It increased educational opportunities and encouraged the Native American tribes to practice their own self-government. Tribes were also able to grow and the culture was revived slightly once again. -
The Second New Deal
The second deal was different because it had focused on social justice rather than just trying to recover from the depression. With the new deal it would encourage people to retire rather than rely on the government for money when they were in a situation. It encouraged people to retire, in hopes of freeing up new positions at the bottom of the work chain. Social security was created as a safety net for people over the age of 65. -
The Works Progress Administration (WPA)
The Works Progress Administration (WPA) was a program created during the Great Depression in the 1930s. It aimed to provide employment opportunities for millions of Americans by funding various public works projects. The WPA had a significant impact on the economy and infrastructure of the United States. It funded the construction of roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals, which not only provided jobs but also improved the country's infrastructure. -
Marched into Rhinelands
Rhineland was a region of Germany that was demilitarized by the Treaty of Versailles. Germany was not allowed to have troops, but did so anyways. Other nations backed off of the treaty because they believed it was too harsh to be enforced. The March into Rhineland encouraged Hitler to break other international agreements because there were no consequences to follow his actions. The occupation of Rhineland took away Frances strategic advantage, which would have a detrimental effect in WWII. -
HUAC
The 1950s were a time of intense fear and paranoia about communism in the US. The methods used to expose communist spies, like those used by the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC), were often harsh and unfair. Many people were accused of being communists without any real evidence, and their lives were ruined. The country took more precautions to protect the country from spies that individual rights and freedoms. -
Pearl Harbor
The attack on Pearl Harbor occurred on December 7, 1941. The United States demanded Japan withdraw from China and Indonesia. Pearl Harbor was caused by Japan, they thought that attacking the US would provide an easy win. The territory had abundant land and resources to rule once they were victorious.Japan held resettlement towards the US because the Oil Embargo against Japan was hurting Japan's economy. Japan believed they could conquer the United States quickly. -
FDR's "infamy speech"
FDR's "infamy speech" refers to his address to Congress on December 8, 1941, following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. In this speech, FDR declared that December 7, 1941, was a day that would live in infamy and called for a declaration of war against Japan. The impact of this speech was significant. It united the American people and rallied support for entering World War II. -
D-day
D-day was a huge turning point in WWII because it put the Allied forces on a path towards victory. D-day started on the beaches on Normandy where Allied forces pushed back troops, all the way until they got to Germany. After the attack, German forces surrendered less than a year later. D-day directly led to the liberation of France, and protecting France from the Germans exploitation of France's economic and natural resources. -
The G.I Bill of rights
The G.I Bill of rights was our government's way of saying thank you to soldiers who served in WWII. It paid for education of veterans, either college or trade school. The bill gave low interest home loans and business loans. This caused more Americans to pursue higher education, letting them earn higher wages. Because more Americans had higher wages, they were able to purchase more goods and services, which pumped tons of money back into the economy. -
The Yalta Conference
The Yalta Conference occurred in 1945. Frederick Delano Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin met to discuss the future of Europe after the war. The conference created World organizations such as the United Nations. It also led to the dismemberment of Germany and Russia's entry into the war against japan. -
The baby boom
The baby boom was between 1946-1963, where the U.S population increased by over 30 million. In the U.S there was 1 birth every 10 seconds. The baby boom created a necessity for more hospitals, schools, colleges, and even workplaces in the future. The baby boom also created more demand for materials that babies would need, sparking industrial growth in materials like baby food, diapers, and clothes. -
The Truman Doctrine
The Truman Doctrine was created by President Truman. He asked Congress for $400 million to aid United States troops and advisors in order to help Greece and Turkey fight communist threats. Communism was often fueled by hopelessness. The doctrine policy allowed Greece and Turkey to push back on communism, ultimelty saving it from communist takeover. -
The Marshall Plan
The United States put into place the Marshall Plan to help solve the terrible economic state of countries in Western Europe following World War II. They feared that the poor people of Europe would join the Communist party. It illustrated their role by the demand for their goods being high in the market. The primary goal was to aid in the reconstruction of war-torn countries, prevent the spread of communism, and stabilize the region politically and economically. -
Brown v. Board of Education
Brown v. Board of Education was a landmark Supreme Court case that declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. The case challenged the "separate but equal" doctrine established by Plessy v. Ferguson. The ruling had significant effects on the American education system and the civil rights movement. It paved the way for the desegregation of schools and the elimination of Jim Crow laws. The Brown v. Board of Education was a major step forward in the fight for civil rights. -
The Warsaw Pact
The Warsaw Pact was a military alliance established in 1955 by the Soviet Union and several Eastern European countries. It was created as a response to the formation of NATO and served as a counterbalance to Western influence during the Cold War. The member countries of the Warsaw Pact pledged mutual defense and cooperation. The alliance dissolved in 1991 with the end of the Cold War, marking a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of Europe. -
The Space Race
The Space Race was a competition between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War to achieve milestones in space exploration. It had a profound impact on science, technology, and international relations. The race led to significant advancements in space technology, including the first manned spaceflight and the moon landing. It also fueled scientific research and innovation, inspiring generations of scientists and engineers. -
The Montgomery bus boycott
The Montgomery bus boycott was a pivotal event in the civil rights movement. It was sparked by the arrest of Rosa Parks for refusing to give up her bus seat to a white passenger. The boycott was a powerful protest against racial segregation on buses, and it lasted for over a year. It caused a significant economic impact on the bus system, as African Americans made up a large portion of its ridership. It also led to a Supreme Court ruling that declared segregation on buses unconstitutional. -
The Eisenhower Interstate Highway Act
The Eisenhower Interstate Highway Act was the largest Public Works project in history. The act updated and modernized America's roadways and connected the country. In urban areas, massive superhighways cut through neighborhoods and destroyed housing, much of it in poorer sections of the city. It played on Cold War fears by making evacuation easier and acting as an emergency Runway. -
Mapp v. Ohio
Mapp v. Ohio was a landmark Supreme Court case in 1961 that had a significant impact on Fourth Amendment rights. It dealt with the issue of unlawful search and seizure. The case involved a woman named Dollree Mapp whose home was searched without a proper warrant, leading to the discovery of illegal materials. The Supreme Court ruled that evidence obtained through an illegal search cannot be used in state criminal prosecutions, extending the exclusionary rule to state courts. -
The Civil Rights Children's Crusade
The Civil Rights Children's Crusade refers to a series of protests led by young African American students in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1963. These brave students faced violent opposition and arrests as they protested against segregation and fought for equal rights. The impacts of the Children's Crusade were significant. It drew national attention to the civil rights movement, highlighted the bravery and determination of young activists, and put pressure on the government to enact change. -
MLK Jr. Jailed
When MLK Jr. was arrested and jailed on April 12, 1963. It had significant impacts on the civil rights movement. His imprisonment brought national attention to the cause and highlighted the injustice and inequality faced by African Americans. It sparked widespread protests and demonstrations in support of his release and the fight for civil rights. MLK Jr.'s time in jail allowed him to reflect and write powerful letters advocating for nonviolent resistance. -
The Civil Rights Act of 1964
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 had a significant impact on the civil rights movement. It prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, and it outlawed segregation in public places. This landmark legislation helped shoot down Jim Crow laws and ensured equal access to public facilities. -
The Gulf of Tonkin incident
The Gulf of Tonkin incident led to the Gulf of Tonkin resolution. It gave the president authority to send troops for extended deployment. Technically the United States was not at war with Vietnam. The incident gave power to the president from Congress but failed to check presidential power. Johnson lied to the American people by saying everything was going well in the Vietnam War. -
The Voting Rights Act of 1965
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 aimed to overcome barriers to voting faced by African Americans in the South. It provided federal oversight of voting practices, prohibited discriminatory practices, and increased African American voter registration and participation. These acts were very important in advancing racial equality and securing voting rights for African Americans. -
The Selma to Montgomery march
The Selma to Montgomery march was a pivotal event during the Civil Rights Movement in 1965. It was a series of peaceful protests led by civil rights activists, including Martin Luther King Jr., to demand equal voting rights for African Americans. The march covered a distance of 54 miles from Selma to the state capital of Montgomery, Alabama. It brought national attention to the issue of voting rights and put pressure on the U.S. government to pass the Voting Rights Act of 1965. -
The Tet Offensive
The Tet Offensive was a major military campaign during the Vietnam War in 1968. It was a series of surprise attacks by the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong forces against South Vietnam and its allies. The offensive was a turning point in the war as it demonstrated the resilience and determination of the enemy forces. Although the attacks were eventually repelled, it had a profound impact on public opinion in the United States. -
The Watergate scandal
The Watergate scandal occurred during the Nixon presidency and ultimately led to his impeachment. Watergate was a hotel in which the Democratic party had its headquarters in Washington D.C. A group of criminals broke in, bugged phones of the democratic campaign, and caught and arrested. President Nixon engaged in trying to cover up the crime and ordered the firing of people investigating the case. The House of Representatives impeached Nixon for using Presidential Power to sway a criminal case. -
Title IX
Title IX is a federal law in the United States that prohibits sex discrimination in education programs and activities. It was passed in 1972 and has had a significant impact on promoting gender equality in schools and colleges. Title IX ensures that both male and female students have equal opportunities in areas such as athletics, admissions, and access to educational resources. It has led to increased participation and funding for women's sports. -
Opertaion Desert Storm
Opertaion Desert Storm took place in 1991 under the Bush administration. Iraq was under leadership of Saddam Hussein and invaded Kuwait. The United States LED coalition and removed Iraqi troops liberating Kuwait.