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Period: 40,000 BCE to
BEGINNINGS TO EXPLORATION
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1300
The Renaissance
The Renaissance was a period in which Europe left the Dark Ages and experienced a "rebirth". It occurred throughout the 14th century until the 17th century. During the Renaissance, culture, art, innovation, economy, and politics grew. Technology and ideas from the Crusades were used. New inventions, such as the printing press, were created. What would greatly change the course of history, though, is the new knowledge put towards exploration. -
Jun 20, 1325
Tenochtitlan
Tenochtitlan was the capital city of the ancient Aztecs. It was considered one of the most advanced areas of the time. In addition to this, it was also one of the most densely populated with a population of approximately 400,000. Though conquered by the Spanish, this area would later become modern-day Mexico. -
1347
Black Death
The Black Death, also known as the Black/Great Plague, decimated the European population in the mid-1300s. The plague was brought over from Asia by rats that carried fleas and were on board European ships. This pandemic decimated an estimated 40-50% of the European population. Because of this, there was a shortage of workers which led to the formation of the merchant society. In retrospect, the Black Death greatly transformed and changed European society. -
1415
Henry the Navigator
Though going against his title, Henry the Navigator was not a navigator or a sailor. He was crucial to Portugal's success because of his sponsoring of maritime technology and voyages. Henry was best known for his expeditions to Africa. He helped improve Europe's knowledge of the world's geography and bettered navigation and map-making. All in all, and most importantly, Henry the Navigator was known for beginning the Age of Discovery. -
Jun 7, 1494
The Treaty of Tordesillas
The Treaty of Tordesillas was enacted to to settle the dispute between Spain and Portugal. At the time, Spain and Portugal were conflicting with each other over the new lands recently discovered by Christopher Columbus. In the treaty, Spain was given rights to the west of the line, and Portugal was given the east. -
1517
95 Theses
The 95 Theses was written by Martin Luther in 1517. Luther wrote these Theses to attest to the Catholic Church and their Indulgences. He was upset because the Church was accepting money to let a person's sins be forgiven by God. Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the Church's doors. Because of this, he was excommunicated from the Church. Most importantly, this would lead Luther to revolutionize Europe by starting the Protestant Reform. -
1518
Middle Passage
The Middle Passage was one route of the triangular trade that brought African slaves over to the New World (Americas) across the Atlantic ocean. It was used from about 1518 up until the mid-19th century. In addition for providing slaves, Africa would in return receive weapons and other European goods such as tools and cloth. Conditions on the passages, though, were brutal. Humans were packed against each other with no room to breathe. More than 10% of slaves died and were thrown overboard. -
1518
Triangular Trade
The Triangular Trade was a system of trading in which Europe, Africa, and the Americas exchanged items (and people). There were 3 stages/"legs" to this trade. In the first leg, England would give goods such as weapons, cloth, and iron products to Africa. Africa would then transport slaves to the Americas in the second leg (also known as the Middle Passage). From there, the Americas would ship raw goods to Europe where Europe would continue to make finished products. -
1519
Conquest of the Aztecs
In 1519, Hernan Cortez organized the conquest of the Aztec empire. Cortez was massively outnumbered with only 500 soldiers under his command. He did have an advantage because Cortez had horses which the Aztecs were terrified of because of their unfamiliarity. In addition to this, Cortez allied himself with enemies of the Aztecs (which were many). With the aid of horses, other natives, and the belief that he was a god, Cortez successfully conquered the Aztec's in 1521. -
Roanoke
Roanoke was established in 1585 as one of the English's first attempts at settling a colony. In 1587, John White - the governor of the colony - sailed back to England to bring back supplies. Because of the naval war between Spain and England at the time, White was not able to return until 1590. When he finally returned back to the colony, it appeared to have seemingly disappeared. The only trace left of Roanoke (AKA the Lost Colony) was the word "Croatoan" which was carved into a wooden post. -
Period: to
ENGLISH COLONIAL SOCIETIES
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Colonial Economies - New England
The colonies of New England were greatly affected by the environment and geography in which they landed in. Unlike the south which had rich, fertile soil, New England colonies accommodated forests, hills, and rocky soil. Because this made farming difficult, they had very diverse economies. They practiced fishing, whaling, and ship-building. In addition to this, they also heavily participated in trade and acquiring lumber. -
The Plymouth Colony
In 1620, English puritans arrived in America aboard the Mayflower. These settlers wrote the Mayflower Compact which legally established and claimed the land as theirs. Life was hard for them because they did not know how to survive in the new environment. They later struck a deal with a native tribe - who had Squanto as a translator - which entailed them being taught survival skills, and in return helping the natives fight their enemies. -
Maryland
Although a charter was given to George Calvert (first Lord Baltimore) by King Charles I in 1632, the settlement was not established until 1634 by George's son, Cecilius Calvert (second Lord Baltimore). Maryland was named after the King's wife, Henrietta Maria. It was created as a safe haven for Catholics, but this soon changed. As the colony's Puritan population grew, religious conflict began to ensue. -
New York
At the time, the area was occupied by the Dutch, and it was named New Amsterdam. Unfortunately, the population remained small, so the settlement was vulnerable to attacks. In 1664, the English attacked New Amsterdam which resulted in its handover to England. The establishment was then named after James, the Duke of York (proprietor). Even until today, the area is called New York. -
Pennsylvania
In 1681, King Charles II granted William Penn a charter for land between Maryland and New York because of the debt he owed. The colony was then established as a proprietary colony that was known for its religious and social acceptance. Penn was part of the Society of Friends - the Quakers. Because of the colony's tolerance, Pennsylvania gained a number of diverse settlers and had good relations with the natives. -
The Glorious Revolution
The Glorious Revolution tells the tale of how King James II was overthrown. King James II gathered much opposition because of his support of Catholicism in the then Protestant England. Parliament acquired the help of Mary (James' daughter) and her husband, William, to dethrone James. After the defeat of James II, Mary and William took power and established the Bill of Rights. The revolution is also known as a bloodless revolution because no blood was spilled. -
The Enlightenment
The Enlightenment was a philosophical and educational movement. It was also known as the Age of Reason. This movement advocated reason, science, and, rationality. It told people to question everything, including the authorities (the Church). Ideas from the Enlightenment inspired many important events in history such as the American and French Revolution. Moreover, it drastically affected American history as its ideas, such as unalienable rights, would be used in the Constitution. -
The Act of Union (1707)
The Act of Union (1707) was a treaty that brought together the unification of England and Scotland to create the United Kingdom of Great Britain. With this, Britain is now an empire with Parliament as its leading power. This further change how the colonies were run as they now had local governance with a federal central authority. -
Period: to
COLONIAL AMERICA TO 1763
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The Great Awakening
The Great Awakening occurred as a reaction to the Enlightenment spreading of secularism. There was a new found distaste for materialism and rationalism because it was believed that it took away from religious piety. Thus, the Great Awakening was the revival, or "awakening", of religion in America. It greatly changed American society in such a way that ordinary people were given a voice as people were able to choose their own congregations. -
The Seven Years War / French and Indian War
The seven years war started in 1756 and last up until 1763. The war was fought because the British colonies wanted to expand westward, and the French wanted more land South. The French began to lose the war when Quebec fell and Montreal was captured. The war officially ended with the signing of the Treaty of Paris (1763). Because of this war, the British receive all of the French's territory in America. It ended French rule in America and the British now control most of America's territories. -
Treaty of Paris (1763)
The Treaty of Paris (1763) ended the French and Indian - also known as the 7 years - war. The treaty gives all French territory in North America (such as Canada) to Britain. This both ended French rule in the Americas and made Britain a major world power. Because of the proclamation following this, colonists were unable to expand westward. This played a role in the change of Americans' attitude towards their mother country and set the stage for future upcoming conflicts. -
Period: to
THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
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Stamp Act
The Stamp Act was an act passed by Parliament that placed a tax printed papers such as newspapers and documents. This heavily affected lawyers and printers. Angering many, the Stamp Act Congress was later created.where 9 out of 13 colonies sent delegates. Because of this, the Stamp Act was later repealed in 1766. Though this was only the beginning, the Stamp Act set the scene for what would later cause the Revolutionary War. -
Boston Massacre
The Boston Massacred took placed in Boston, Massachusetts when angry colonists harassed British soldiers. In self-defense and retaliation, the British soldiers fired into the crowd resulting in the deaths of 5 colonists. News broke out of the event and colonists were livid. What added fuel to the fire was how Paul Revere depicted the event; he made a fictitious event where the colonists seemed to be innocent. All of this were one of the many events that led to the Revolutionary War. -
Olive Branch Petition
The Olive Branch Petition was drafted during the Second Continental Congress and was sent to the King of Britain. It was sent as a last resort in hopes of avoiding war and maintaining peace. In the end this olive branch was rejected by the king. Because of this, many colonists realized that the only hope for survival is through war; the support for the revolution then increased drastically. -
Battle of Lexington
The Battle of Lexington was known as "the shot heard round the world." In this battle, British redcoats met with the American militia on their march to Concord. There was much tension, but both sides ordered for no one to fire as they didn't want conflict to ensue and blood to be spilled. Although no one knows who fired the first shot, someone did it and battle began immediately afterwards. Outnumbered, the militia fled while the British continued their march. No matter the outcome, war began. -
Common Sense
Common Sense was a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1776. In it, Paine argued for independence from Britain. He pushed for a democratic representative government and attacked monarchy. Because this booklet was so cheap and popular, many began to read it. This paper placed a hatred for monarchy in the hearts of Americans. It was one of the many things that contributed to the Revolutionary War. -
Declaration of Independence
On July 2nd, the Declaration of Independence was completed by Thomas Jefferson. It was then signed on July 4th and sent to Britain. The document stated that independence was not a choice, but that is was the only chance for survival. The states were proclaimed as independent, but united. The document also enlisted grievances against Britain, but it avoided anti-monarchical sentiments as they didn't want to turn away possible allies. This document officially declared war upon Britain. -
Articles of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation was the form of government used prior to the Constitution. It was initially made during the American Revolution to make the states, "independent, but united." It worked for the time being, but would prove to inadequate. The AOC was weak because the government couldn't tax, there was no common currency, and there was no central authority. Shay's rebellion was the last straw and showed the U.S. that the Articles of Confederation needed to be replaced. -
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THE CONSTITUTION
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Treaty of Paris (1783)
The Treaty of Paris (1783) ended the Revolutionary War. The treaty was negotiated and signed in Paris by John Jay, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and representatives of King George III. In it, the United States was recognized as independent. Furthermore, it established the Northern border between America and Canada. In addition to this, the United States also received land to the Mississippi River. America was now its own independent nation. -
Problems with the British
Even after the Revolutionary War ended, problems still remained. British troops and forts continued to remain in Ohio valley because America did not honor the Treaty of Paris (1783). Loyalists were not compensated and their debts were unpaid. Natives were also not represented in the treaty, so more conflict arose. In addition to this, the United States also faced issues with the Spanish. The Spanish denied the U.S. access to the Mississippi River and they did not trade with the U.S. -
American Virtue
After the end of the Revolutionary War, American society began to transform. Republican ideas began to spread everywhere around the country. They took on a unique style. For example, their furniture and architecture became a form of democratic symbolism, showing that they left their British roots behind. Moreover, showing a continuation of the Age of Enlightenment, people became more educated. Because of this, they had more of a voice in American society. -
Enlightenment Ideals on America in the Late 18th Century
Continuing on from the age of Colonial America, the Age on Enlightenment persisted on even after the American Revolution. The same ideals that helped spark the Revolutionary War continued to be taught even after it. There was now a larger focus on people becoming more educated. With educated citizens, ordinary people now had more of a say in American politics. There was now less of an emphasis on a religion. It became insignificant to the point that the church and the state were separated. -
Shays Rebellion
After the American Revolution, farmers who fought in the war were struggling financially as they were not compensated well. In Massachusetts taxes were also being raised. Without a way to pay off their debts, farmers were arrested and their farms were seized. This angered many farmers and war veterans and a rebellion led by Daniel Shays was started. Though not easy, the revolt was put down by force. This made leaders uneasy with how far the issue escalated. This led to a reform in government. -
Constitutional Convention
After the disaster that was Shays rebellion, it was evident that a change in government needed to be made. Meetings began to be held around the country. In 1787, the Founding Fathers came together and gathered at the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia to discuss constitutional matters in secret. The meeting addressed the weakness of the Articles of Confederation and proposed for a revision. Though initially only reforming the current government was intended, a new one would soon arise. -
Northwest Ordinance
The Northwest Ordinance was a new system for admission into the Union. This followed the principles of the Ordinance of 1784 which was created by Thomas Jefferson. For one, a territory must have a governor. It stated that if a territory had 5,000 free males, then it would be a legislature. If the territory has a population of 60,000 (free males), then it could become its own state. The ordinance also rejected slavery. This would be used for future admissions for new states. -
Election of 1788
The election of 1788 was America's first presidential election. Because of the popularity that he gained during the American Revolution, George Washington easily won by a landslide. Americans loved Washington and viewed him as a hero. Washington was almost god-like to the people. During this election there were no running mates so the person who received the second most votes (John Adams in this case) would become the Vice President. -
Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights was written in 1789 and was ratified in 1791. This document contains the first ten amendments in the Constitution and was written by James Madison. The Bill of Rights was supported and heavily pushed by the Anti-Federalists to ensure that the government would not become too powerful. It writing was influenced by the English Bill of Rights, Magna Carta, and Declaration of Rights. The Bill of Rights is important because it guarantees a citizen's individual rights and liberties. -
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NEW REPUBLIC
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Bank of the United States
The Bank of the United States was proposed by Alexander Hamilton and was established in 1791. The Bank was funded by private investors. It acted as a depository and gave out loans. It also stabilized the currency and the economy. Beside the positives, the establishment of the bank set off constitutional problems. Republicans were against it because it did not state that a bank could be established in the Constitution. The bank was still established because George Washington sided with Hamilton. -
Whiskey Rebellion
The Whiskey Rebellion began in 1791 because Pennsylvania and Kentucky farmers were upset over Alexander Hamilton's new 25% tax on Whiskey. 6,000 farmers threatened to attack Pittsburgh but were met with an army of 12,000 led by George Washington himself. In contrast to Shay's rebellion, this revolt was quickly put down and dealt with. The important takeaway from this rebellion was that it showed that the Constitution was strong and worked as a new form of government. -
Cotton Gin
The cotton gin was a piece of technology invented by Eli Whitney in 1793. It was one of the inventions that drastically changed the course of American history during the Industrial Revolution. Before the technology was created, slavery was actually on the decline, but because cotton could now be deseeded and processed at a faster rate, slaves were in a higher demand to pick cotton. While this invention enriched the United States, it would also later cause its downfall with the issue of slavery. -
Washington's Farewell Address
George Washington wrote his Farewell Address when he stepped down from office. By doing this he established the 2 term rule. In his address, Washington wrote about the major threats to the United States and warned the U.S. against certain actions. Although the U.S. didn't heed his advice, Washington advised America to avoid conflicts and to remain as neutral as possible. In addition to this, the warned the U.S. to only make temporary alliances and never permanent ones. -
Alien and Sedition Acts
In 1798, the Alien and Sedition Acts were signed by John Adams and passed by Congress. The Alien Act was targeted towards immigrants. It made becoming a citizen more difficult and allowed the government to deport aliens and citizens back to Europe. The Sedition Act made it a crime to say negative remarks against the United States and the president. This act was used against Republicans by Federalists in the government. Evidently, these acts angered many as they went against the Bill of Rights. -
Kentucky Resolutions
The idea of the Kentucky Resolutions was proposed by Thomas Jefferson. The resolutions were written in response to the Alien and Sedition Acts. The resolutions were against the acts because they went against the Bill of Rights. The resolutions stated that states could nullify laws that were unconstitutional. These writings were the foundation for states' rights and it would be what the Civil War fought on. -
Period: to
AGE OF JEFFERSON
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Louisiana Purchase
The Louisiana Purchase was a deal struck between France and the United States. At the time, France was in dire need of money because of the cost of the French and American Revolution. Napoleon sold 827,000 square miles of land to Thomas Jefferson for 15 million dollars. This deal makes Jefferson out to be a hypocrite because the purchasing of land was not stated in the Constitution. Either way, this purchase will forever change America as it will double its size at the time. -
War of 1812
The War of 1812 began because of British impressment of U.S. sailors, the Embargo Act of 1807, and the handing of weapons and supplies to natives to attack American settlements. With tensions rising, war was declared in 1812. The war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Ghent, though the Battle of New Orleans continued as news had not reached them. Although the war should have never occurred, it is important as it set the scene for Andrew Jackson to become a war hero, and later, president. -
Hartford Convention
Federalists met multiple times starting on late December 1814 to early January 1815. During the meetings, Federalists discussed their dissatisfaction James Madison's policies and the War of 1812. They were also angry over the unequal power and stressed states rights. Some proposed secession and others wanted the Constitution to be amended. These meetings changed history because it caused the fall of the Federalist party and set the scene for new parties to emerge. -
Battle of New Orleans
Though the war had already ended with the signing of the Treaty of Ghent, news had not yet traveled to New Orleans. In this battle, American forces had to defend against a British attack. This resulted in an important victory for Americans and was the last major battle of the War of 1812. This event is significant to history because it makes Andrew Jackson, a future president, a war hero. -
Southern Society
Southern society was divided into 3 classes: planters, yeoman farmers, and tenant farmers. Planters were the elite class of the South and didn't own many slaves. Yeoman farmers worked with a communal effort and was the middle class of the south and most didn't own slaves. They had to reply on planters, and some resented them. Lastly, tenant farmers were the lower class of the south. They made up the majority of the south with 30-50%. They fraternized with slaves and encouraged white supremacy. -
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THE AMERICAN INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION
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Adam-Onis Treaty
The Adam-Onis Treaty was negotiated between the United States and Spain. In this treaty, Spain cedes Florida to the United States and in return the United States must recognize Spanish sovereignty over Texas. Because of this treaty, America now has control over Florida and the boundary between the U.S. and Spanish territories are now defined. -
Missouri Crisis
The Missouri Crisis was a dispute between slavery and free states. It began when Missouri applied to become a slave state. This brought about an issue because free states were upset as it would tip the balance of power/representation between free states and slave states. This issue was solved by the Missouri Compromise in 1820 by drawing an imaginary line at 36 30 latitude. Though the the issue was resolved, this dispute foreshadowed issues that would later arrive in the United States. -
Slavery - Abolitionism
Views on a long held issue in America, which is slavery, are changing. Abolitionism is on the rise. There are two forms of abolitionism. One is gradualism which wants to free slaves gradually back to Africa; this is not liked among African Americans. The second is immediatism. This is the desire to slavery to end immediately. Because of this, Anti-abolitionists also rise as well to denounce abolitionism. They enact the gag rule which forbids Congress to speak of abolition. -
Second Great Awakening
Beginning around 1800, the Second Great Awakening began to pick up its pace around 1820. The movement rejected secularism and deism believing that morality would be taken over by economics and politics. Instead, it emphasized on religious romanticism. A higher emphasis on education was also placed with grades assigned and compulsorily attendance. Influenced from penitentiaries, prisons were also established. -
Period: to
CULTURAL CHANGES
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Monroe Doctrine
The Monroe Doctrine was enacted during James Monroe's presidency. It was created against European colonialism. The policy warned European nations to not interfere with the western hemisphere. It stated that existing colonies can exist, but any further attempt at colonizing would be viewed as hostile. For the most part, though, this policy was ignored because the United States didn't have the military power to back it up. This exemplifies how weak America was at the time. -
Election of 1824
The Election of 1824 was a free for all with 4 candidates: John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, William Crawford, and Henry Clay. In this election, Andrew Jackson wins the popular vote, but not the electoral college. In the end, John Quincy Adams is chosen because he made a deal with Henry Clay who was the leader of the House of Representatives. John Q. Adams would be president in return for Clay being named secretary of state. This angered Andrew Jackson and it was then named the Corrupt Bargain. -
American System
During John Adam's presidency, Adams began to play out his plan to improve America; this was called the American System. The American System encouraged industry and the rising of tariffs. Like Alexander Hamilton, Adams also planned to establish a new national bank. In addition to this, Adams focused on internal improvements in the United States. For example, he would build new roads and canals to improve domestic affairs. -
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AGE OF JACKSON
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Changes in Transportation - Canals
During the American Industrial Revolution, the invention of canals completely changed transportation. Take, for example, the Erie Canal. After being built, travelling was made far faster and cheaper. Goods could now be sold at a lower rate because the cost of shipping them was inexpensive. Items that would have once been difficult to attain and maybe even considered luxurious would become easily accessible. In the end, canals aided with enriching America and revolutionized transportation. -
Election of 1828
Andrew Jackson once again goes against John Quincy Adams. Jackson now promoted his humble origins and used the grassroots method to get his name out everywhere. He also started the second Party System and the Modern Democratic Party. In addition to this, both parties attacked the other's candidate personally (such as calling them womanizers). Because of this, this election was known as the first modern campaign because of the different methods used. -
Lowell Mills
Lowell Mills, established in the 1830s, was an industrial factory in the North. It brought women to work in the factories because they could be paid less than men. Lowell Mills used the Waltham System in which factories were centralized. Women lived in dorms near the factories and all of their basic necessities could be bought nearby. This system was more efficient and women earned more, but there were long hours and bad conditions. For the first time in, women could maker their own money. -
Foreign Immigration
Seeking refuge and economic opportunities, many Europeans immigrated from Europe to the United States - each for their own different reasons. At the time, Ireland was experiencing a devastating potato famine so many began to starve. Germans fled from Germany because they have poor harvests and political turmoil. Scandinavians and the British simply enjoyed the economic opportunity. All of this combined with the Industrial Revolution made American seem very appealing to immigrate to. -
Jackson Administration - Cherokee
During Andrew Jackson's presidency, gold was found in Cherokee territory. In order to acquire this gold, the Indian Removal Act of 1830 was enacted. This gave the president the power to exchange Indian land. The Cherokees then attempted to sue and take the issue up with the Supreme Court, but was dismissed in Cherokee Nation v. Georgia. In Worcester v. Georgia though, SCOTUS rules that Cherokees have rights, but Jackson refuses to enforce that decision and continued to remove Indians. -
Mormons
In 1823, Joseph Smith claims that he found the ancient Golden Tablets. They were written in a language that only Smith could understand and decipher. In 1830, Smith founded the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (also known as the Mormons). This religion appealed to farmers and traders. Believers of this religion were subjected to much hate and criticism. At times, things even got violent. All in all, a new religion has been founded, and it continues to grow. -
Nat Turner's Rebellion
Nat Turner's rebellion was a slave revolt that occurred in Virginia. During the revolt, approximately 60-80 slaves killed 55-60 whites, including children. While northerners saw this rebellion as heroic, southerners were horrified. As a result of the fear now present in plantation owners, the south strengthened their militias. More importantly, they also added slave codes. These codes placed restrictions on slaves (such as not allowing them to testify, read, or write). -
Election of 1832
Running for the Democratic Party is Andrew Jackson, and running for the National Republicans is Henry Clay. Because it was known that Jackson hated the Bank of the United States, Clay schemed with Nicolas Biddle, the president of the 2nd bank of the US, to trick Jackson. With an early renewal for the bank charter, they hoped for Jackson to veto. This plan evidently backfires when Jackson gives his Bank Veto Speech. Jackson appealed to the common man and destroyed Clay in the election. -
Nullification Crisis
Caused by the Tariff Act of 1832, the Nullification Crisis was an event in which South Carolina confronts the federal government. After the tariff act was enacted, Southern states were angry because it hurt their economy. Talks of law nullification were being discussed and tensions began to rise. This caused issues with the presidency as the VP, John Calhoun, had opposing views with Andrew Jackson. Though the issue was later resolved, this event presents the matter of state rights even further. -
Temperance Movement
Working in factories and hard labor made alcohol consumption in America a spreading epidemic. The Temperance Movement was a movement aimed at abstaining the United States from alcohol. Its goal was to lower alcohol consumption. Alcohol was thought as one of the main reasons for crime and health issues. Women were commonly subjected to the effects of alcohol. For example, they are the ones who are punished when their husbands come home in a drunken rage. Because of this, women led the movement. -
New York Female Reform Society
At the time, prostitution had become a massive issue in America. Women living in poverty used prostitution as a last resort to make ends meet. When they found out that it paid much better than their previous jobs, women stayed on that path. The New York Female Reform Society was then founded by Lidya A. Finney, the wife of Charles Grandison Finney. The society aimed to stop prostitution and those, including males, who encouraged it. They also provided education to those who wanted to change. -
Battle of Gonzales
Rebellious Texans led by John Moore attacks a Mexican camp at Gonzales. Wanting to avoid battle, the Mexicans retreat to San Antonio with one man killed. The Texans did not suffer any casualties from battle. Though the battle was short, and not blood was shed, this victory encouraged Texans to take up arms against Mexico. With all Texans ready for battle, Stephen F. Austin is chosen to lead the army. This battle was significant in which it started the Texas Revolution. -
Transcendentalism
In response to the rising rationalism, transcendentalism was a philosophical movement that began in New England and spread throughout the United States. Transcendentalists placed a deep emphasis on nature and self sufficiency. They based their knowledge not from religion nor complete rationality, but intuition. Their way of living was to understand life, relationships, and the world around them. Transcendentalists will go on to spark future movements such as women's suffrage. -
Battle of San Jacinto
The Battle of San Jacinto was crucial to history in how it won Texas its independence from Mexico. Sam Houston leads the Texian army and surprise attacks Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. The battle itself lasted less than 20 minutes and ended with the capture of Santa Anna. To get his freedom, Santa Anna was forced to recognize Texas' independence and additionally had to sign a treaty confirming his acknowledgement. Because of this, history is forever change, and Texas becomes an independent nation. -
Election of 1840
Martin Van Buren runs again for the Democratic party and General William Henry Harrison runs for the Whig party. Harrison had an advantage because he was a hero of the war of 1812 and Van Buren already had a bad reputation from the Panic of 1837. Harrison copies Andrew Jackson's tactic and spread rumors about Van Buren. Whigs also get women to influence their husbands' votes. Because of this, Harrison easily wins the election, but only remains president for a month because he dies from sickness. -
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WESTWARD EXPANSION
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Election of 1844
During this election, Texas and the United States' politics over the territory came back to debate. Texas heavily influenced the way in which the election would turn out. Henry Clay ran for the Whig party and James K. Polk ran for the Democrat party. Polk planned to only run for one term and had 3 mains goals: to annex Texas, settle the Oregon border with Britain, and settle the Mexican border. Although Texas was annexed before his inauguration, Polk won the election nonetheless. -
The Telegraph
The Telegraph was invented by Samuel Morse and other innovators in the 1830s and 1840s. Along with this, Samuel Morse also developed Morse code and the first message was sent in 1844. This invention completely changed long-distance communication. Messages were able to be sent at a far quicker pace than it could before. In addition to revolutionizing the way people communicated, this invention was a major playing factor in the victory of the Union in the Civil War. -
The Bear Flag Revolt
This rebellion was born out of tense relations and distrust between the Mexican government and American settlers. In 1846, matters were made worse when John C. Fremont arrived to persuade settlers to rebel. Soon, a small group of American settlers banded together to revolt against the Mexican government. They went on to declare California as an independent republic and became The California Republic. This did not last for long as the United States would later occupy the territory. -
Mormon Migration
At this time, Mormons were shamed and harassed for their beliefs. After Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon religion, was killed by an angry mob in jail, Mormons decided to migrate in hopes of finding religious persecution. Brigham Young, the new leader of the Mormons, leads 1600 Mormons to migrate westward. They end up at Salt Lake Valley in Utah where they relocated away from the federal government. -
Wilmot Proviso
Wilmot Proviso was proposed to Congress in 1846 by David Wilmot, a Democrat from the House of Representatives. The proposal wanted to ban slavery in the newly acquired territories gained from Mexico during the Mexican-American War. To balance things out, it stated that slavery could remain where it already was; it just couldn't spread further. In the end, the Senate rejected the proposal, so it was ineffective. Most importantly, this proposition further divided the U.S over the issue of slavery. -
Seneca Falls Convention
Taking place in New York in 1848, women gathered and met up to be what will be known as the Seneca Falls Convention. Led by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott, women began to discuss their rights and desire for suffrage started to manifest. At this convention, the Declaration of Sentiments was written. This document contained of resolutions pertaining to women's rights. This meeting was monumental as it marked the first time in American history that women took action for their rights. -
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the Mexican-American War. It settled the border dispute between Mexico and America. The treaty ended in the seizure of over half of Mexican territory. The United States in turn received 525,000 square miles of land. These lands make up Arizona, California, Utah, Wyoming, Colorado, Nevada, and New Mexico. Because of all of the newly gained territory, problems over the legality of slavery will come to arise. -
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SECTIONALISM
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California Gold Rush
A vast amount of gold was found in California. Thousands of people migrated in hopes of getting rich. Gold was easy to find at first, but people had to resort to mining by 1852. The Chinese immigrated to work in the worst mines, and were met with racism from whites. The flow of migrants caused a drastic population increase. In 1848, California was a territory, but by 1850, it was a state. This would later arise problems over its statehood and whether it would be a free state or a slave state. -
Compromise of 1850
The Compromise of 1850 was a compromise containing 5 separate bills. It was made by Henry Clay in an attempt to resolve the political issue between the North and the South. The compromise stated that California was a free state, New Mexico and Utah would decide on slavery, Texas would give up its western lands, the slave trade was banned in Washington D.C., and the fugitive slave act was enacted. These bills, especially the fugitive slave act, will set the scene for the upcoming Civil War. -
Election of 1852
Franklin Pierce ran for the Democratic party and Winfield Scott ran for the Whig party. In this election, Scott allied himself with antislavery Whigs, but Whigs could not appeal nationally because of polarization over slavery. Ultimately, Scott loses the election by a long shot and Pierce becomes the youngest president at the time. After this election, the Whig party began to fall apart. This election gives way for the Republican party to later be formed. -
Bleeding Kansas
Bleeding Kansas was a political debate over slavery that became violent. Those who were pro-slavery recruited illegal voters to win and establish a pro-slavery government in Kansas. This angered abolitionists so they established their own anti-slavery government. With two separate governments in Kansas, violence ensues. This event is critical because it was one of the first major civil, violent conflicts over slavery and gives America a preview of the war that is to come. -
Kansas-Nebraska Act
Passed in 1854, the Kansas-Nebraska Act allowed the people themselves to dictate whether or not slavery would be legalized. This act made the Missouri Compromise ineffectual. While the South was happy over this predicament, the North was infuriated. The Kansas-Nebraska Act will be proven to be fatal as it leads to future upcoming issues such as Bleeding Kansas. -
Election of 1860
Though Abraham Lincoln was not widely popular, he won the Election of 1860 because the Democrat party was divided. The Democrat Party had two candidates: John Breckinridge, the official candidate, and John Bell, the unofficial candidate. This division ensures that Lincoln will win the election. Angered by Abraham Lincoln winning the election, the South begins to have secession rallies and some states begin to leave the Union. This event is the breaking point of previous built up tensions. -
Crittenden Compromise
Proposed by Senator John J. Crittenden, the Crittenden Compromise hoped to extend the 36 30 line to the Pacific. Like the Missouri Compromise, it worked to balance free and slave states in which free states would be above the line, and slave states below it. It worked in hopes of relieving tension between the North and the South and preventing secession. Ultimately, Abraham Lincoln rejected the proposal and the Confederate States of America decided on independence. -
Trent Affair
Hoping to gain support from the British, two Confederate diplomats are sent to Europe to negotiate. The USS San Jacinto intercepts the RMS Trent and orders for the arrest of the two Confederates on the British ship. This angers Britain and they demand for an apology. In the end, Lincoln lets the Confederate diplomats go free and avoids conflict with Britain. The issue is resolved and British and French neutrality is secured. -
Civil War - the North
The north had many advantages in the Civil War. For one, they had a massive population running with 22 million strong. They were also heavily industrialized and had good financing ($330 million). This ensured that they had an abundance of weapons and clothes. Their vast system of railroads, with 30,000 miles of tracks, allowed for fast transportation. They fought to uphold the Constitution. On the downside though, the north did not have good generals which will cost them heavily during the war. -
Civil War - the South
The south had great military leaders, but that's just about where their advantages end. They had a smaller population than the north (9 million) in which many were slaves. They were not as industrialized and did not have as many railroads. Supplies were scarce. The south compared themselves to the Patriots as they were fighting for their freedom. Their financing was limited unlike the north with only $27 million. Because of these disadvantages, they hoped to gain a European ally with Britain. -
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CIVIL WAR
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Emancipation Proclamation
After the South ignored his warning, Abraham Lincoln came out with the Proclamation Emancipation. The proclamation declared that all slaves in the Confederate slaves were free. Slaves were now fleeing North in hopes of seeking persecution. In addition to this, African Americans were now eager to enlist in the army to fight for their freedom. This one act was crucial to history because it changed the tide of the war. -
Election of 1864
During this election, Lincoln was not in high hopes for victory. At this point, northerners were sick and tired of the war. Northern democrats attacked Lincoln for setbacks during the war. Democrats in turn nominated George McClellan, Lincoln's old general. As a lucky turn of events, Sherman's capture of Atlanta gives Lincoln a popularity boost. It raised the moral of northerners who simply wanted the war to end. Because of Sherman, Lincoln won the election by a long shot. -
Abraham Lincoln's Assassination
Five days after Robert E. Lee's surrender at Appomattox Courthouse, Abraham Lincoln attends a play at Ford's Theatre. Unbeknownst to everyone, Lincoln and a few other members of his cabinet will be assassinated on this day. Shot in the head by John Wilkes Booth, Lincoln will die the next day. Though Lincoln is dead, Confederate forces still continue to surrender and the Union wins the war. Even so, one must ponder on what could have been were Lincoln to be alive. -
Appomattox Court House
With no way to retreat, General Robert E. Lee surrenders to Ulysses S. Grant. After the surrender of the Commanding General of the Confederate Army, the war begins to fall from its peak. Following Lee, Confederate forces continue to surrender and by late June the Union has all but won the war. Appomattox Court House is crucial to the turn out to the war because it essentially brought the Civil War to an end. -
Ku Klux Klan
The Ku Klux Klan was a group white Confederate veterans who resented new black rights. They especially grew and became violent when African Americans received the right to vote. This band of people punished blacks and whites who supported African Americans for challenging the social order. They terrorized black communities and partook is torturing and murdering some victims. To this day, the Ku Klux Klan is remembered as one of the most cruel organizations in America. -
Freedmen's Bureau
The Freedmen's Bureau was an relief agency established by Congress in the war-torn South. It was created to aid former slaves and poor whites in the south. Food and emergency services were supplied. Most importantly though, schools were built and education was provided. Because of this African Americans became more literate and some began to take place in office. The bureau faced much opposition, even from president Andrew Johnson himself. Because of this, the agency did not persist for long. -
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RECONSTRUCTION
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Election of 1866
Unlike normal elections, the election of 1866 was not a presidential election. Instead, it was mainly a dispute between president Andrew Johnson and radical republicans over reconstruction and how harsh it should be. By this time, Johnson had lost support of Republicans for being far too lenient with the southern states and confederates. Reconstruction was then made through legislature with the override of Johnson's plan. With this, the south was divided into 5 military districts. -
Election of 1868
After he tries to fire the Secretary of State, Andrew Johnson becomes the first president in American history to be impeached. In the following election, Ulysses S. Grant runs for the Republican party as pragmatic and peace-wanting while Horatio Seymour ran for the Democratic party. Black votes evidently became very important in this election. It showed that whites in the north and south alike were racist as they used violence and intimidation to sway voters. In the end, Grant won the election. -
15th Amendment
The 15th amendment stated that a citizen's right to vote could not be denied because of their race or color. This amendment was necessary to protect black votes. Though segregation and Jim Crow laws will make it difficult for them to vote, the amendment provided universal male suffrage for African Americans. Furthermore, this amendment would later help cause a new suffrage movement as it sparked a desire in women to want suffrage as well. -
Panic of 1873
Spreading from Europe after the Franco-Prussian war, the panic of 1783 overtook the United States by storm. The economy was massively set back until 1877. Railroads decreased, factories closed down, and thousands of Americans became jobless. Because of this people began to focus on their own economic affairs. President Ulysses S. Grant then begins to reduce efforts in policing the south in order to handle the panic. This panic made it so that Democrats won big in 1874. -
Compromise of 1877
This compromise was made to resolve the election of 1876. Samuel Tiden from the Democratic party won the popular vote, but electoral votes were unclear. The compromise would give Rutherford Hayes from the Republican party all electoral votes, but in return Hayes must agree with ending Reconstruction. Federal troops would then have to be removed from the south. This would once again allow for the beginning of suppression for southern blacks. Jim Crow laws are now fast approaching.
