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Period: 30,000 BCE to
Beginnings to Exploration
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400
Rome
Rome was important because it controlled most of Europe and influence their culture and customs. Roman law has great significance since it still influences today's civic law. A principle of The Roman Law was "everyone is innocent until proven guilty" which is still used today. Rome had a powerful empire that conquered many countries including Hispania, Gaul, Achaea and Judea among others. Since Rome was so important to Europe the fall brought on the Dark Ages and the end of the ancient world -
800
Dark Ages
The Dark Ages, also known as the middle ages was a time period in Western Europe. This time period referred to the the demographic, cultural, and economic downfall that occured in Western Europe. This "age" was a 'backward' time where people had no learning so there was no advancement in society. The economy of Europe at this time was weak or non-existant. Western Europe at this time was culturally and educationally controlled by at-the-time dominant Catholic Church. -
1000
The Mayans
The Mayans were part of the Mesoamericans. The Mayans practiced human sacrifice where they offered blood to their gods and also practiced bloodletting where they would cut a part of the body and release blood , which they believed was a way to communicate with gods.The Mayans were very unique because they had a written language unlike the other mesoamericans, their language was known as the Maya glyphs. The Mayans had a caste system where the top was composed of kings and priests. -
1350
The Black Death
The Black Death was cause by flea plague and transformed the European society in many ways. A big way the black impacted Europe was that 40-50% of Europe died which left Europe without workers and a merchant society. This much death c -
1450
The Aztecs
The Aztecs were part of the "Mesoamericans", the Aztecs had the largest population with 20 million people who lived in Tenochititlan which is now Mexico city. The Aztecs performed human sacrifice on a massive scale because they believed it was crucial to their survival. The Aztecs had a caste system social structure, their emperor Montezuma was part of the noble level, then there was the commoners and the bottom level were the slaves or prisoners. The slaves and prisoners were often sacrificed. -
1500
Christopher Columbus
Christopher Columbus was an explorer and navigator who is known for his 4 voyages to the "New World". He believed he had found a shorter route to Asia but instead he found a new continent. During this time it was already known that the world was round thanks to Darwin, but Columbus proposed that he could reach India by sailing West from Spain. Columbus then set out on his trip because of Spanish catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. When he found the "New World" he later did 3 more voyages. -
The Renaissance
The Renaissance, also known as the "rebirth" of Europe was a time period following the middle ages and was a cultural movement where technology was "imported" and classical ideas were reborn. This time period is known for its art and architecture. The most famous artists of this time are Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Many scientific dicoveries were made in this period since curiosity and discovery were encouraged. During this period printing press allowed for literature to be spread . -
Virginia
Settlers first settled in Virginia in 1607, with the first settlement on the peninsula in James river and was called Jamestown and was the first permanent settlement. But before Jamestown, there was Roanoke, which was established in 1585,and ended up being a failure. Although Roanoke was a failure, Jamestown wasn't, which John Smith was a big part of. Smith was an English soldier, and also one of the founders. A key part for Jamestown's' success was tobacco, that was later helped by slaves. -
Period: to
English Colonial Societies
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Maryland
Maryland was first founded in 1634 which was granted by King Charles(I) to George Calvert, also known as Lord Baltimore. Maryland was made with the purpose to create a religiously free colony and was named after the king's wife. George Calvert then passed and Cecil Calvert inherited the title of "new" lord Baltimore and became a proprietor. Cecil then required settlers to have provisions. Maryland's main crash crop was tobacco which led to the need for indentured servants. -
The middle passage
The middle passage mainly took place in British North America and was the trading of slaves from Africa to colonial America. In the middle passage more than 10% of all slaves died during the voyage. Ten percent of the slaves traded were saltwater slaves, these slaves were the ones who were taken from Africa and were in high demand since they were the most conditioned. Saltwater slave demand mainly increased in the 1700's. -
The Atlantic Slave Trade
Slavery was increased in the colonies which led to the Atlantic Slave trade. The Atlantic slave trade was an inter-African slave trade and provided a new source of labor for Europeans. Slavery particularly increased in the 1600's, with Spain, Portugal, and Holland leading the slave trade until the 1700's. In the 1700's Britain then became the largest slave trader. -
Pennsylvania
William Penn first settled in Pennsylvania to create a religious refuge for Quakers also known as the Society of Friends. The land was granted to William Penn because the King owed William Penn a large debt so he granted the land West of New Jersey. Pennsylvania was first called the "Peaceable Kingdom" and was a limited Republic where only men voted. Pennsylvania was classified as a middle colony and as a proprietary colony since the land was granted and had full rights to self-government. -
Glorious Revolution
The Glorious Revolution was an important event for England. This event took place with James (II) who was the first catholic monarch in over 100 years. This created conflict because he wanted a Spanish style government, he then input taxes that were meant to ally England and France. The parliament the dissolved and parliament got the kind's daughter and her husband to invade England. Mary and her husband then signed the English Bill of Rights, which included the king's misdeeds. -
Massachusetts Bay Colony
Massachusetts Bay Colony was led by John Winthrop who selected the settlers, with the requirement of being married, he would pay their travel to the New World. The colony was built around the church and was less than 1/2 a mi. away from the center. In this colony family was important leading healthy lifestyle, most settlers living into their 60's. Many were Calvinists who shared beliefs with Puritans, a settler Roger Williams was expelled form the colony because of the ideas he was "spreading. -
Salem Witch Trials
The Salem witch trials took place in colonial Massachusetts and began with the minister's daughter acting strangely. It didn't help that at this time period there was nor science or reasoning but only superstition.The Salem community were puritans who aimed for a perfect society. The church leaders made more than 200 accusations with 20 executed, all caused by the mass hysteria that claimed many were possessed and did witchcraft. This later led to find proof before making accusations. -
The Enlightenment
The Enlightenment is known as the time period were science and reasoning was brought to the U.S. With the enlightenment science replaced superstition and questioned all preconceived notions including the bible. The enlightenment was about thinking individually, with important figures being Sir Issac Newton, Benjamin Franklin, John Locke, Adam Smith among others. The enlightenment brought Deism, the idea that the god created us but doesn't control people, and that evil resulted from ignorance. -
Act of Union
The Act of union was when the Parliament of Scotland and England united which then led to the creation of the United Kingdom of Great Britain. This Act made New Britain an empire where parliament was the head of the empire but colonies still had local control. The Act of union had a Federal System with a central authority and local government that later paved the way for modern U.S. system of government. -
Period: to
Colonial America to 1763
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New England
The New England colonies had religious toleration with most of it's settlers coming from England or Northern Europe. The New England colonies had an economy that was mainly based on fishing but also had other activities such as; ship building and Atlantic trading. New England included New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay colony, Rhode Island and Connecticut. New England was established by a group of Puritans known as Pilgrims who first established the Plymouth Colony. -
The Great Awakening
The Great Awakening was the reaction to the Enlightenment and secularism, separation of government and church that was greatly influenced by John Edwards.The Enlightenment created a consumer oriented society were people were "leading their way to hell". Many people were scared into religion, with George Whitfield greatly influencing people. Whitfield preached gospel and gave ordinary people a voice. During this era Native-American revivals were important were Jesus was a symbol and no alcohol. -
Slavery in the Lower South
Slavery in the South mainly took place in Carolina, which at the time was a colony of a colony. At the time 2/3 of the population were slaves with rice being a staple crop. In this area slavery wasn't nearly as harsh as in the upper South, slaves in the lower South had immunity to diseases and were organized by the task system. Slavery in the lower South was kept secluded from the rest of the people and therefore African heritage was preserved. -
Fort William Henry
The Fort William Henry battle was the turning point of the Seven Year's War where the British were defeated. Fort William Henry is located in province of New York. The French arrived to the fort on August 3, they then bombed and seized the fort. The British then had to surrender, with many people dead, which estimated to about 200 people. -
Treaty of Paris
The Treaty of Paris (1763) ended the French and Indian War, also known as the Seven Year's War. The treaty ended French rule in North America, the treaty also gave Britain control New France, what is now Canada. After the treaty the World map was altered because lands were now owned by different countries, the French now only had Haiti and small islands off Canada. After the treaty hostilities ended and trade began, Westward expansion also was greatly halted by the British. -
Period: to
Revolutionary War
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Stamp Act
The Stamp Act was imposed on the colonists by Britain and made it a requirement to have stamps on all paper. This Act was very harsh and mainly affected lawyers and printers, who then were very angered. The Stamp Act then led to the Stamp Act Congress were 9/13 colonies sent representatives, which then caused protests to be erupted. The Stamp Act was repealed by parliament by the Declaratory Act. The Stamp Act was a great factor that led to to the American Revolution. -
Boston Massacre
The Boston Massacre was a major event during the Revolutionary Era.The Boston Massacre is where a crowd of Bostonian's harassed British soldiers, the soldiers then fired into the crowd. Several colonists were killed and the which led to Paul Revere's false and exaggerated account of the incident.The Boston Massacre was then created into a huge American propaganda and is the first example of this.This incident then changed the view of the British soldiers and unite colonists against the British. -
Boston Tea Party
The Boston Tea Party is the incident were American colonists who were angered by the "taxation without representation". The angered colonists then dumped 340 chests of British tea into the Boston harbor. The Colonists involved were dressed as Indians and were drunk.The act of dumping was a way of protesting, but this incident angered the British because of the colonists' actions and felt they needed punishment which led to the Intolerable Acts. -
Olive Branch Petition
The Olive Branch was drafted by John Dickinson and was adopted by the Second Continental Congress and later submitted to King George. The Olive Branch Petition was the last hope for peace between the British and the Colonists were the colonists would maintain loyalty to the British Crown but also keeping their rights. The petition was rejected by the British and there was no longer a chance of reconciliation. After the rejection support for the revolution was picked up by many colonists. -
The Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence was made because there was no longer any other option for the colonists. This declared the colonies as united and independent states. The draft was written by Thomas Jefferson and stated the grievances against the British. The declaration of Independence avoided gaining anti-monarchical sentiment because of the need for allies, in particular France and Spain. Loyalists were isolated by this which led to many fleeing to Canada. -
Battle of Saratoga
The Battle of Saratoga was a battle of the Revolutionary War that is known as the turning point of the war. This battle was an American victory, which forced the British to retreat. This battle was major because it gained the support of the French, who then turned into a key factor of winning the War. The French then committed their troops and navy. This battle more importantly gave hope that the Colonists had a chance of winning the Revolutionary War. -
The Great Debate
The great debate was between the Federalist and Anti-Federalists that dealt with a series of protest and debates.The main argument was whether to have a strong central government.The Federalists argued that a powerful central government was needed along with checks and balances.An important role for the Federalists was John Jay.On the other hand, the Anti-Federalists argued that less government was needed along with a Bill of Rights.At the end the Federalists won and the constitution became law. -
Massachusetts Constitution
The Massachusetts Constitution is often viewed as the U.S. Constitution model because both had a similar structure. The Massachusetts Constitution had four parts: a preamble, declaration of rights, a description of the framework of government, and articles of amendment. The part of this constitution that had a great part for its approval is the declaration of rights, since it held an article on religion, equality, and independence. The draft was written by John Adams. -
Three Branches
The three branches were created by the constitution. The Legislative branch was made to make the laws. The Executive was made to enforce the laws,and when first created was picked by the legislative branch with no limit to how many terms could be served. The Executive branch was first a three man executive. The Judiciary branch was made to overview court cases, but at first was left incomplete, which would later be made stronger by judicial review. -
Treaty of Paris
The Treaty of Paris (1783) ended the revolutionary war and recognized the U.S. as an independent sovereign. The treaty also established the Northern border with British North America, present day Canada. This treaty restored loyalists properties that were taken during the War, gave access to the Mississippi River to both the British and the Americans, and gave the U.S. the frontier land to the river. The Treaty of Paris overall officially gave independence to the U.S. -
Period: to
The Constitution
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Articles of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation were ratified in 1771.The Articles of Confederation made the government weak, having no force to tax. This left the U.S. with a weak economy that relied on requisitions. Under the Articles of Confederation the U.S. had money issues, not having enough funds. The articles of confederation were made weak because of the government no wanting to repeat the ruling of Britain. The government had no central authority under the A.O.C which eventually led to the constitution. -
Shay's Rebellion
Shay's Rebellion occurred during post-war recession and was led by Daniel Shay. Daniel Shay was a farmer who was angered because of the farms being seized. Shay then led revolutionary war veterans, and the rebellion was quickly spread. This rebellion created a sense of urgency that change was needed because it showed how weak the government was under the Articles of Confederation. This then led to to making of the constitution because a stronger government was needed. -
Northwest Ordinance
The Northwest Ordinance was adopted by the Confederation Congress and created a new system of admission for the Northwest territory. The Northwest Ordinance rejected slavery in the new territories and stated all the rights of the new territories. By banning slavery in the new territories the Ohio River was established as the boundary between free and slave states in the area between the Appalachian Mountains and the Mississippi River -
Constitutional Convention
The Constitutional Convention, also known as the Philadelphia Convention, took place in the old Pennsylvania State House. This Convention was held with the purpose to amend the Articles of Confederation. As the Constitutional Convention meetings went along it became clear that the Articles of Confederation were not good enough. There was then two plan proposals, the Virginia Plan, the -
Election of 1788
The election of 1788 was the first election held in the U.S with Washington winning as president. This election was particularly easy because everyone saw Washington as god-like and was everyone's choice. John Adams won 2nd place and became the Vice President. This election was held based on the constitution which had been ratified not long ago. Washington was greatly influenced by Alexander Hamilton who wanted a strong central government and played a big role in Washington's presidency. -
Period: to
New Republic
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Two competing forms of government
The two party system was created because of the difference in interpretation on whether to have a strong government or not.The parties were the Federalists and the Democrat-Republicans. Hamilton was the leader for the Federalists who believed that the constitution was a living document that changes with time and believed in a strong central government.Jefferson and Madison were the leaders of the democrat-republicans who believed in strict interpretation of the constitution and loose government. -
Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights were the first ten amendments added to the constitution and were the compromise between the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists in order to ratify the constitution.These were added to protect the people's rights which the Anti-Federalists believed the constitution wouldn't do.The Bill of Rights guarantees the personal freedom and rights of the people and are imposed to limit the power of the government.The Bill of Rights were greatly influenced by the English Bill of Rights. -
Bank of the United States
The Bank of the United States was the first bank created under Washington's presidency and created by Alexander Hamilton. The bank served as a depository and for loans. This bank was created with the purpose to stabilized the economy, but instead set off conflicts on whether it was unconstitutional. The Democrat-Republicans argued that it gave the government too much authority. But in this case Washington sided with Hamilton and the bank was chartered. After this America became divided. -
Whiskey Rebellion
The Whiskey Rebellion was caused by the 25% tax imposed on Whiskey which angered Pennsylvania and Kentucky farmers. The Whiskey Tax especially angered the farmers because at the time whiskey was economically important.The farmers then created a revolt and threatened to attack Pittsburgh.This revolt was quickly stopped by an army lead by Washington.This rebellion is of great significance because it is seen as the first domestic test for the constitution which proved how strong the government was. -
Election of 1796
The Election of 1796 had two major running candidates who were John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. This election was caused by Washington not seeking a 3rd term which then set the precedence of only 2 terms. This election was seen as Federalists vs. Republicans. John Adams then won the election, who was a Federalist, and Jefferson became Vice President, since there was no running mates. This created conflict since Adams and Jefferson had opposing views. -
Period: to
The Age of Jefferson
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Marbury vs. Madison
The Marbury Vs. Madison case is the most important supreme court case in the U.S. history. This case was caused by Adam's appointing his judges last minute, which Madison then withheld the nominations. Marbury was angered because he felt entitled to the position. The Supreme court ruled that Marbury was entitled to the position but lacked jurisdiction for the ruling. This then caused Judicial Review to be set up and also set up modern day court. -
Louisiana Purchase
Louisiana Purchase was made under Jefferson's presidency, this purchase was made possible because of the offer Napoleon made. Jefferson then bought Louisiana because he was afraid Napoleon would back out in his offer of 3c per acre.This then made Jefferson seem like a hypocrite because he believed in limited government.The purchase doubled the U.S size and secured the Miss. River, which then lead to the Lewis and Clark Expedition.This expedition was made possible because of Sacagawea's help. -
Embargo Act of 1807
The Embargo Act was the U.S. reaction to Americans being forced into British naval service and the British firing on U.S.S. Chesapeake. The Act was signed by Jefferson which then deprived Britain and France from American goods and prohibited all American ships trade with foreign countries. The Embargo Act was unpopular in the seaports because merchants were angered. The Act instead hurt American economy and greatly affected trading. -
Battle of New Orleans
The Battle of New Orleans was practically over when it was fought. This war was caused because Andrew Jackson hated the British. The U.S. then defeated the British army with a bi-racial ragtag army. Andrew Jackson then achieved a great win for the Americans. The Battle of New Orleans made Andrew Jackson a household name, which later helped when he ran for president. The battle was part of the War of 1812, which at the end was a draw and didn't solve any diplomatic issues. -
Changes in Communication
As the U.S. industrialized there was many advancements is communication which allowed for news to be spread quicker. One of the most important creations wast the telegraph,which was created by Samuel Morse and worked by transmitting electrical signals. This allowed for messages to be sent quickly. Another advancement was made in printing by making it quicker. This allowed for cheaper printing which then created more books and led to more literacy. -
Period: to
The American Industrial Revolution
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McCulloch vs. Maryland
The McCulloch Vs. Maryland is seen as a supreme court landmark case. This case ruled that congress had implied powers that were under the constitution. This case also stated that states could not impeave with the Federal government and also that states couldn't take the place of the Federal government. The case was caused by Maryland imposing a tax on the U.S. bank and by the Southern states taking a more radical view of state's rights. -
Missouri Crisis
The Missouri Crisis was a conflict between the South and North states. The conflict was triggered by Missouri applying for admission as a slave state which Northern states were against and Southern States were for. This created a division because of the even amount of free and slave states which would be altered by the Missouri admission. This crisis then led to the Missouri Compromise which was a temporary solution where states over the 36-30 line were free and states under were slave states. -
Florida
Florida was obtained by the U.S. because of the Adams-Onis Treaty. The treaty was made because the U.S. wanted to take Florida from Spain, Spain then ceded Florida to the U.S. and also set the new boundary between the U.S. and New Spain. To achieve the treaty Jackson "defended" the Indians. The treaty then caused the recognition of the U.S. claim to Louisiana. The treaty settled controversies of Spain's claim to Florida. -
Changes in Agriculture
There was many changes in agriculture during the industrial revolution. One of which was the Iron Plow, the iron plow was made by John Deere which broke up soil more efficiently. Another invention were the Crank Churns (butter). One of the biggest additions of industrial revolution was the cotton gin, this machine allowed for quick cotton. The cotton gin allowed for more textiles and overall increased the economy while also increasing slavery because of the need for workers. -
Second Great Awakening
The Second Great Awakening picked up around 1820 and emphasized religious romanticism which meant religion was made seem as something great.This movement brought on the supernatural and more emotion, while also rejecting secularism and deism.With this movement came prisons where the prisoners would be isolated and was made for the prisoners to think about their actions, with a main one being the Eastern State Penitentiary.Education also became important with compulsory attendance. -
Abolitionists
Abolitionists were the people who wanted to end slavery. With the abolitionists movement came immedialism, which was an immediate end to slavery. Along with immedialism there was also Gradualism, which was freeing slaves eventually to Africa. Gradualism was never popular among African Americans, especially since most of the African Americans weren't from Africa and would be sent to a foreign land. -
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Cultural Changes
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Monroe Doctrine
The Monroe Doctrine took place while the Spanish Empire was crumbling. This Doctrine was cause by the U.S. wanting influence over new territories and declared to Europe that there would be no intervention in Latin America nor the Western Hemisphere. This then put this area under U.S influence and later for the U.S expansion. The Doctrine also stated that the U.S. would not intervene with internal European affairs. -
Election of 1824
The Election of 1824 had 4 candidates, John Q. Adams, Andrew Jackson, William Crawford and Henry Clay. In this election there was no picked successor, and was won by John Quincy Adams. This result created conflict since Jackson won the popular vote but Adams won the electoral college.Andrew Jackson was the angered and bitter because he claimed that Adams had won because of a corrupt bargain between him and Clay.Jackson felt the presidency was robbed from him and he began his campaign. -
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Age of Jackson
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Changes in Transportation
During the Industrial Revolution there were many changes in transportation which allowed for faster transportation. One of the changes in transportation was the making of modern roads. Another huge change were the steamboats which allowed for trading to be made faster.The other change in transportation were the canals made, with the most important one being the Erie Canal, which connected NY to Hudson River.Railroads also improved everything by making goods cheaper and more efficient. -
Labor Changes
During the Industrial Revolution there were many changes in labor .The North was industrialized while the South mainly remained agriculture-focused. During this, women also started working, mainly in Lowell Mills which were in the middle of nowhere.The Lowell Mills had the Wattham system, these mills were centralized factories with large labor forces and women earned more.Labor was also impacted by steam power engines because everything was made cheaper including textiles. -
Presidency of John Q. Adams
During Adams' presidency the American System was imposed, which included tariffs on industries, a new national bank. While Adams was president he had the idea of a National University which was an important observatory and financed scientific expeditions. Adams made internal improvements by creating roads,canals, bridges, harbors among other paths for transportation. Adams also had conflicts including being out of touch and the change of popular democracy. -
immigration
During the Industrial Revolution many immigrants came to the U.S. looking for a better life, many of which migrated to the rural areas. There were immigrants from Europe, including the Irish, the German, the Scandinavian/British. The Irish migrated to the U.S. because of the potato famine and lived in Inner city slums.The German migrated because of poor harvest and political turmoil.The British/Scandinavian came for economic opportunities.The Germans/Scandinavia settled in the Midwest and North. -
Native Americans
There most known being Natives were the Cherokee.Jackson,at the time president,hated Native Americans and wanted segregation.This hate grew when gold was found in Natives land and led to the Indian Removal Act of 1830.The act gave the president the power to exchange Indian land and caused the Cherokee Nation Vs. Georgia case and later Worchester Vs. Georgia. SCOTUS ruled that Jackson couldn't do anything which Jackson refused to follow,Georgia pardoned Worchester and the case was "erased". -
Revivalism
An important movement during the 1800s was the Revivalism movement which was partly caused by the "bad" market revolution. This movement involved directly preaching to people's needs because of wanting to get their message out. The preachers liked technology but the industrial revolution, an important person during this movement was -
Suffrage
Industrialization changed the way families were because women would work in cities.This led to women having political opinions and wanting to vote, with opinions such as being anti-slavery, anti-Indian removal, and temperance.During this time an important event was the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848 where Elizabeth Stanton and Lucrema Mott along with 300 men and women met with the result of the Declaration of Sentiments which demanded equal rights for women including voting. -
Mormons
The Mormons were a millennialism religion who were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The Mormons migrated across the United States from the Midwest to Salt Lake Valley, this was done with the purpose to get religious freedom. This religion was founded by Joseph Smith in Fayette, New York. An important Mormon was William Miller who was a preacher credited for the religious movement known as the Millerites. -
Transcendentalism
Transcendentalism includes the belief in the nature of people and their "goodness" and believe that society is the root of corruption of purity. This philosophy also includes that people are their best when independent. An important figure for this philosophy is Frederick Douglas who fought for the end of slavery. Another important figure was Ralph Waldo Emerson who was a lecturer and poet who believed that people should be self-reliant and in constant improvement. -
Nullification Crisis
The Nullification Crisis was caused by congress raising taxes and later imposing the Tariff Act of 1832. These taxes greatly affect Southern agriculture but mainly South Carolina. John Calhoun, who was Vice-President at the time advocated nullifying the law, which later caused him to resign because he was conflicted over the issue. The crisis later caused the S.C. Convention which ended the crisis by Henry Clay reaching a deal where congress would scale back tariffs. -
Election of 1832
During the Election of 1832 there were three main candidates, being Jackson, Henry Clay and William Wirt. The main point of this election was the Bank of the United States, which Jackson hated and Clay thought was an issue he could win the election over. Biddle, who was president of the bank, was petitioned by congress for early renewal hoping for Jackson's veto. Jackson then vetoed, which turned in his favor by appealing to the common man and gained support which won him the election. -
Election of 1836
During this election the two main candidates were Martin Van Buren, democrat, and William Henry Harrison, whig. Martin Van Buren barely won the election and inherited the bad economy of the country because of the recent bank problems. During Buren's presidency the Panic of 1837 was going on which gave Buren the bad name of "Martin Van Ruin", he was not a like president which led him to failing his second term -
Free-Black Communities
Free-black communities were the largest in the North and in the Midwest,but these communities were still segregated. These communities were often discriminated and prejudged in the sense that they were seen as inferior to whites. There was conflict with these communities since they would compete for jobs with immigrants. Although there was Free-Black communities slavery still hadn't come to an end and was still important for Southern economy. -
Southern Society
The Southern society had three main groups which were the planters, the Yeomen farmers and the Tenant farmers.The Planters were the elite of the South who everyone aspired to be, most of the planters weren't slave owners. The "middle class" were the Yeomen farmers who 75% of didn't own slaves. The lowest class were the Tenant farmers, which were 35-50% of the South. With the Tenant farmers the question of fraternalism with slaves rose up, but supremacy was encouraged. -
Election of 1840
For the Election of 1840 Martin Van Buren tried to run for second term but was beat by William Henry Harrison who was a Whig. Harrison appealed to the common man by using Jackson's tactics. This election was particularly dirty with Whigs spreading rumors about Buren being a pervert which then got women to influence their husbands to vote for Buren. Harrison won the election fairly easily but he is only president for a month because he died and John Tyler (VP) became president. -
Western Frontier
The Western frontier was where most of the fur trade took place and was dominated by Americans by the 1820s. This frontier brought in huge profits but was then affected by the decline of beavers because they were almost hunted to extinction, this the led to fashion changes and trappers disappeared by the 1840s. Trappers were also very important for Western expansion since they brought information about Western lands through expeditions. -
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Westward Expansion
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Election of 1844
During this election there were tow main candidates, John Tyler who was a Whig, and James K. Polk who was a democrat. James K. Pol ended up winning the election with the promise to complete his 3 goals. Which were 1. Annex Texas 2. Settle Oregon issue with Britain 3. Settle Mexican border issue, he promised to do all of this in just one term if successful.Texas was annexed before his inauguration, he then proceeded to attempt to but the SW from Mx. which failed and led to the Mx.-American War. -
Manifest Destiny
Manifest Destiny can be defined as the idea that the expansion of the U.S. across North American was its destiny and was inevitable. This idea was spread more during Jackson's democracy because he believed in white future in the West. Jackson believed the Native Americans would eventually go extinct and their land would eventually be the U.S.'s . This consistency led to purchases, wars,and treaty's made in order to keep expanding West. -
Wilmot Proviso
The Wilmot Proviso was made with the purpose to ban slavery from all territories acquired from Mexico and was caused by the Mexican-American War. This proviso created a firestorm by splitting the Democrats and Whigs into either pro-slavery or anti-slavery and brought on many conflicts dealing with slavery, with the majority of the North being for it and the majority of the South against it. This led to the Wilmot Proviso being defeated in congress. -
Robert E. Lee
Robert E. Lee was a very important person in the U.S., first in the Mexican-American War and later in the U.S. Civil War. He was very distinguished in the Mexican-American War since he was important for many of American victories which then led him to being promoted to colonel. Robert E. Lee is most known for being the commander of the Confederate states army. He was crucial to many of the Confederated victories during the Civil War. -
Election of 1848
The Election of 1848 had three main candidates, being Lewis Cass, a democrat, Zachary Taylor,a Whig,and Martin Van Buren form the free-soil party. Zachary Taylor was the Mexican-American War general who was also a "no party man", with most of his views being unknown. Taylor had a campaign strategy where in the North he claimed to be for the Wilmot Proviso and in the South he claimed to be pro-slavery. This led to Zachary Taylor beating Buren easily. -
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was the treaty that ended the Mexican-American War. This treaty had many important results. One of the results was that the treaty seized over half of Mexico's territory. The treaty also settle the border dispute with Mexico. But this treaty didn't deal with the threatening issue of slavery in new territories, this left room for many slavery problems to come with many already knowing there would be slavery in the new territories. -
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Sectionalism
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Temperance movement
Temperance can be defined as the idea of abstinence from alcohol, meaning no alcohol is greater than the relief alcohol offers. This idea was brought because of the huge consumption of alcohol where many people would be drinking all day, which also led to drunks being aggressive. The idea that idea that no alcohol improved society led to some states banning alcohol. Temperance was particularly supported by women, since men were usually the drinkers. -
Compromise of 1850
The Compromise of 1850 was first introduced by Henry Clay but was later added to, the final one had 5 separate bills. In the Compromise of 1850 it stated that California would enter as a free state, New Mexico and Utah would decide if they would be a free or slave state. The compromise also included that Texas would relinquish disputed Western lands and the Federal government would absorb its debt. The slave trade in D.C. was also banned along with the Fugitive Slave Act being imposed. -
South
The South had very few small industrialized areas which were large cities but were only a fraction of the South's economy. In the South cotton was "king" with being responsible for most of the South's economy, although rice, sugar, and tobacco were still important. The South was largely dependent on slavery with 4 million working slaves and believed slavery was just an institution. The major advantage the South had over the North was its great leaders. -
Dred Scott vs. Sandford
The Dred Scott vs. Sanford was a supreme court case where Scott, a former slave, sued his masters. In this case the Supreme Court ruled that Scott wasn't entitled to his freedom and that slaves weren't citizens who therefore couldn't sue but Scott won his freedom. It was also ruled that congress couldn't regulate slavery in the North nor in the South. After this case tensions between the North and the South only further escalated. -
North
The North was the industrialized part of the U.S with its industrialization being twice the South's.The North had many advantages including steam engines which allowed for fast transportation.The North for the most part didn't have slaves and had cheap immigrant labor instead.The North was growing exponentially having huge railroads form East to West, connecting the Northeast and the Midwest Agriculture was still important for the North and had railroads that allowed for fast food transportation -
Literature
Literature was particularly important in the U.S. during this time with the conflicts between the North and the South ongoing and people wanting to get their thoughts out. A particularly important book during this time was "Uncle Tom's Cabin" which was written by Harriet Beecher Stowe with a slave narrative that referred to "uncle Tom" as a snitch. Another important book during this time was "Aunt Philis Cabin/ Southern life as it is" which was fiction and is seen as anti-uncle Tom. -
Underground Railroad
The Underground Railroad is the term given to safe houses provided to runaway slaves who were escaping the South. This mainly took place in the North and was partly caused by the Fugitive Slave Act. The underground railroad were supported by abolitionists. An important person for this movement was Harriet Tubman who helped about 5,000 slaves escape in 19 trips. Through the Underground Railroad about 100,000 slaves were freed between 1830-1860. -
Republican Party
The Republican during this period of time was primarily as Northern party since it had the base of being anti-slavery. This party was formed after the Whig party disintegrated because of the differences within the part, the Whigs then along with free-soilers and anti-slavery democrats all joined to form the Republican party with the common goal to end slavery,this all happened around 1854 after there was a complete polarization. -
Period: to
The Civil War
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Neutral States
The border states, also known as the neutral states were Missouri,Kentucky,Maryland,and Delaware.These states were wanted by both the North and the South, but remained neutral.The south had 80% of its production in these states.The North either wanted these states to remain neutral or be theirs because this would keep D.C. from being surrounded,deprive the South from its factories and also give it easy access to Midwest Rivers.In order to do this the North allowed these states to keep it slaves. -
South
The South had many disadvantages during the Civil War. The South's disadvantages included its population, the South had 9 million people with 3.5-4 million slaves. Another disadvantage was its industrialization, the South only had 18,000 factories and a $155 million industry with only 3% manufacturing of weapons. The South also had few railroads, with only 9,000 miles of track. The South's main advantage were its leaders which is the main reason it got as far as the South did. -
Battle of Gettysburg
The Battle of Gettysburg is considered the turning point of the Civil War. This battle was a three day battle on the third day General Lee was forced to retreat since he had lost 1/3 of his force. This battle was the bloodiest battle in American history. Later in 1863, Lincoln gave his most famous speech in which he stated that all men were created equal and changed the purpose of the battle to end slavery instead of to remain a union. -
North
The North had many advantages during the Civil War compared to the South. Its advantages included a huge population of 22 million people, 110,000 factories with a $1.5 billion industry.The North also had 97% of all weapons manufacturing, 94% of all clothing and 90% of all shoes and boots. The North also had 30,000 miles of track and believed in keeping the U.S. united and upholding the constitution. The North had a huge disadvantage of having bad leaders who were chosen based of politics. -
Grant's Western Campaign
Grant's Western Campaign include the Battle of Vicksburg and the Battle of Chattanooga. The Battle of Vicksburg was won which cut the South in two which also gave the union control of the Mississippi River. This led to the capturing of New Orleans which deprived the South of its greatest ally and its finance. After this battle the confederacy became weaker and had problems with the amount of soldiers they had. The Civil War then began winding down. -
Women at Work
During the Civil War many women began working, due to most men being at war. This allowed for women to have new roles in traditionally male jobs. During the Civil War many women became teachers, and nurses. Clara Barton, a nurse, created the American Red Cross in order to help wounded soldiers from both the Union and the Confederacy. Women also had to take care of their plantations in the South, or become store managers, farmers, civil service jobs, all in place of men. -
Slaves
During the Civil War there were many major events for slavery including the Emancipation Proclamation. The Emancipation Proclamation is known as when Lincoln declared slaves free as of 1/1/1863. This was done after the Battle of Antietam which was a quasi union victory. After the Emancipation Proclamation the goal of the war was to end slavery, this stopped Britain from entering the war. Although slaves were free, border states were the exception in order to keep to them neutral. -
Andrew Johnson Administration
Andrew Johnson became president after Lincoln's assassination, Andrew Johnson was a very controversial president in his decisions during reconstruction. Johnson opposed secession and was a racist, because of this he had an easy system for readmission where Southerners just had to swear oath, return all property,renounce secession and ratify the 13th amendment.Under his office high-ranking Confederate officers were pardoned and had their property restored. -
Freedom Amendments
The 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments are known as the freedom amendments. The 13th amendment is the amendment that outlawed slavery in the U.S. which was ratified on 12/6/65. The second of these amendments is the 14th amendment which defined citizenship as being born in the U.S. who were entitled to equal protections of rights. The 15th amendment is the amendment that stated all citizens had the right to vote and could not be denied. -
Life for whites Reconstruction South
After the Civil War there was reconstruction, in the South, where there was division.There were Republicans, whom part of wanted to steal from Southerners, others were there for opportunity, and others were Freedmen/relief workers. There was also Carpetbaggers, who were Northerners that moved to the South for better economic opportunities. There were also Scalawags, who Southerners considered traitors, who were also poorer. Overall, the South had corrupt politics during reconstruction. -
Period: to
Reconstruction
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Black Codes
Black codes were made in the South during reconstruction to limit African Americans' civil rights and economic opportunities.In the South African Americans were exploited in labor and were treated like slaves. This also outlawed interracial marriage along with serving on juries. Under Black Codes, vagrancy was included which arrested African Americans for being homeless or wondering who were then forced to work on plantations, along with their children becoming "apprentices" until the age of 21. -
White Resistance
White resistance in the South resented the rights recently given to black.The most known of these is the Ku Klux Khlan which was formed by white brotherhood also known as the KKK,this led to the Enforcement Acts,which only worked while enforced.The white resistance created the Mississippi Plan in which they allied for the 74' election by using violence/terrorizing black & white Republicans.Democrats then won the election and took over,with the redeemers claiming they were saviors of the South. -
Jim Crow
Jim Crow is known as the social and legal system of segregation in the South.Under Jim Crow,segregation increased along with violence of white resistance. Jim Crow included disenfranchisement which was sometimes violent.Voting disenfranchisement included three impediments to stop blacks from voting.This included poll taxes, which most blacks couldn't pay, along with literacy tests,and the last one is the grandfather clause, under which only those whose grandparents voted before 1867 could vote. -
Compromise of 1877
The Compromise of 1877 is the agreement between Hayes, Republican, and Democrats. This was caused by the election of 1876 in which popular vote went to Hayes and the electoral votes being unclear. Under this compromise Hayes would end reconstruction and removed Federal troops from the South. After this compromise, total white control began by suppressing Southern Blacks. After this Democrats took control and enforced the Jim Crow system.
