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Period: 2000 BCE to
Beginning to exploration
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1300 BCE
Aztecs
The Aztecs were a tribe settled in modern-day Mexico City. Their city capital was Tenochtitlan, at the time being one of the most dominant and powerful cities in Mesoamerica. Their empire was filled with pyramids and temples. Their practiced human sacrifices as a part of a religious ritual as they believed it would spare them from any suffering. The Aztecs were highly religious and Polytheistic. The tribe was brought down when they were conquered by the Spanish and wiped out by diseases. -
1200 BCE
Olmecs
The Olmecs were probably one of the most developed and advanced civilizations in Mesoamerica, known to have influenced the Aztec and Mayan culture. They understood the concept of zero and writing much earlier than the other tribes. However, they are best known for their colossal head carvings. They practiced bloodletting that served sacrificial and medical purposes. The Olmecs withdrew blood because they believed it would prevent disease and illness. They believed they owed blood to the gods. -
476
The Dark Ages
After the fall of the Roman empire, the majority of Europe experienced a time period of cultural and economic downfall. The average lifespan had significantly decreased to about age 30. Education was the least of anyone's worries as it was hard to peacefully study and learn. In fact, because of how difficult it was to educate a child, children were considered scholars at ages 14-15. The social classes during this time period were quite distinctive, as many either lived in poverty or nobility. -
1300
The Renaissance
The renaissance originated in Italy, spreading across Europe between the 14th and 17th century. It was a time period in which people's interest in art and literature sparked. Drawings and statues were inspired by the Greeks and Romans. During the Renaissance, there was a movement for humanism, where people favored education over divine rulers. The way people thought changed. Instead of religion, which was rapidly declining, they had science and math to prove their thoughts and ideas. -
1347
The Black Death
From 1347-1351, Eurasia was plagued with the Black Death, going down as one of the most dangerous events in history. The disease came about after pests, like rats, picked up and spread a bacteria called Yersinia Pestis. The plague caused symptoms such as vomiting, fevers, and swellings filled with pus and blood. The epidemic killed 40%-50% of Europe's population. Some people believed that it was God's punishment for their sins, and if they live through the plague, it meant that God forgave them. -
1492
The Columbian Exchange
The Columbian Exchange was the trade of ideas from the Old to the New World. Agriculture and livestock were traded and exchanged from both sides. Europeans incorporated what they found from the New World into their daily lives and vice versa. After the arrival of Columbus's expedition, the natives also used what they learned from the settlers, from warfare to necessities. The Columbian Exchange was an event in history that impacted almost every civilization that was around during that time. -
1517
Reformation
The Reformation was a movement in Europe that challenged the Catholic Church's authority, as they abused their power, doing things for their own benefit. Martin Luther, a German monk, posted his 95 Theses onto the church's door. This was a list of complaints regarding the church's practice of indulgences, where Catholics paid money to have their sins forgiven and cleared from their name. This was the start of many straying from the Catholic church, believing they were corrupt. -
Period: to
English Colonial Societies
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Slaves
Slavery started after a Dutch ship brought 20 African slaves to Jamestown. Europeans had slaves participate in labor-intensive work on their plantations in the new world because they were not used to the harsh conditions. The Europeans got slaves from Africa because they were cheaper and easier to control than having indentured servants. As the Europeans increased their wealth, they started producing more crops, needing more slaves. This would cause more issues that take place in the future. -
Mayflower Compact
Pilgrims from Europe left to the New World for religious freedom. When they arrived at their desired destination, a written document was needed to maintain order in the Plymouth Colony. This document was the first governing document in America to be implemented. The Compact was made to avoid conflicts in the future, stating "just and equal laws...for the general good of the colony." The pilgrims created a social contract and formed a government based on the consent of the people. -
Navigation Acts
The Navigation Acts were passed by the British parliament to target the colonies. This act benefited the British, as it allowed them to legally restrict the colonies trade only to Britain. This affected the colonists in a negative way, as it prevented them from trading with others who may have had the same goods for a cheaper price. Because of this, it added to the colonists' resentment towards the country and only gave them another reason to rebel and protest against them. -
Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Colony was founded by William Penn after being issued a land grant by the king. The grant was to pay off the debt the king owed to Penn's father. Penn recognized the right of having the freedom of religion, resulting in the land becoming a religious refuge. People from all over Europe after they heard the guarantee of religious freedom. However, religious tolerance didn't mean having the same rights as all else. Only Christians could vote or run for positions on the council. -
The Glorious Revolution
The Glorious Revolution was a bloodless revolution. After King James II started showing rule over the independent colonies, many were angered. King James II made settlers pay taxes, reapply for new land, and enforced laws that favored Catholics. Soon, James II was chased off of his throne and was replaced with his daughter, Mary II and her husband William III. Because of this event, it destroyed any chance Britain had of becoming an absolute monarchy and instead, a constitutional one. -
Salem Witch Trials
In the city of Salem, Massachusetts, a series of trials took place after the accusation of many being possessed by the devil. In 1692, two girls named Elizabeth Parris and Abigail Williams began exhibiting strange behavior. This behavior included making odd sounds and screaming and them also reporting an invisible figure biting and pinching them. Shortly after, a few other girls started displaying the same symptoms. This continued until 20 people were dead, either being hung or drowned. -
Period: to
Colonial America
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Act of Union
The Act of Union was an act that was passed to unify Scotland and England parliaments. The Scottish signed the document on January 16, 1707, and after this act was enforced, the Scottish parliament ended only a few short months later, in May. This resulted in the formation of the United Kingdom of Great Britain where Scotland and England became one. Because Britain's focus was on the Union, colonies had local control over their government and a sense of independence. -
The Triangular Trade
This trade route was one that benefited Europe, Africa, and the New World. The Triangular trade route got its name because of its three legs. The first leg going from Europe to Africa where goods were exchanged for slaves. The second leg was the transportation of slaves from Africa to the New World. The third leg was then the transportation of goods back to Europe. Within the two legs where goods were traded, items like guns and ammunition, sugar and tobacco were popular items. -
The Enlightenment
The Age of Reason is also known as the Enlightenment. This philosophical movement took place between the last 17th and the beginning of the 18th centuries. They believed in reasoning, logic, and science instead of religion, and for this reason, the Catholic Church did not like this movement. During this time, the most important intellectuals were John Locke, Issac Newton, and Thomas Jefferson. Some countries have adopted the ideas from the enlightenment to change their country. -
The Great Awakening
With many things in colonial America changing, it is no surprise that traditional religious views will also change. Since before colonial America, religion was seen as a mandatory quality since people developed in Europe in the dark ages.Religious positions were held only by the most elite societies and were often hailed as lords. This was completely changed by George Whitefield and others. He and others foster a personal relationship with God and have had many revivals. -
The Atlantic Slave Trade
The Atlantic slave trade was a slave trade between Africa and the New World. Approximately 12 million Africans were captured and sold when arrived in the New World. They became a free source of labor for the Americans. Many Africans died on the way to the New World from diseases they had picked up due to the lack of basic necessities. They did not have a bathroom nor did they have access to food. Because the slaves had to be transported in overcrowded ships, illness spread rather quickly. -
Colonial Economies
Now that the colonies are established, the economy and revenue generation are becoming increasingly important. The lower south settled in the agricultural realm. With increasing slavery, this region was also able to benefit from the cultivation of tobacco, rice, indigo and cotton later. In New England colonies, they concentrated on trading fur, fishing and shipbuilding. The mid - Atlantic colonies had a huge economy that they could rely on. Shipbuilding and agriculture, were used frequently. -
French and Indian War
The French and Indian War was a war between Britain and France. The natives fought alongside the French and the British were led by Washington. The British won and obtained large amounts of land, including "New France," ending the French rule in North America. The war caused tense relations with indigenous frontiers and raids. These border disputes and war expenses made the colonists unhappy and motivated them to revolution. The war lasted 7 years and would end after the treaty was signed. -
Treaty of Paris
The Treaty of Paris put an end to the war between the French and British in 1763. It stated that France would be forced to surrender its entire territory in the North American mainland and give it to the British. Because of this, Great Britain now had territory east of the Mississippi River. Although this was a major victory for Britain and the colonies, it only fed into the tensions between them and left them with great war debt. -
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The Revolutionary War
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Acts of Parliament
With Britain in financial trouble, the parliament looks to its colonies to generate the extra income they desperately need. The 1764 Sugar Act was the first tax imposed on colonists in order to generate revenue. Other taxes have been imposed on colonial goods by Parliament. The following taxes were met with the non-importation movement and tea boycotts. The coercive acts have been passed to have the colonists under control. This civil disturbance will lead to the American Revolution. -
Boston Massacre
The Boston Massacre was a clash between a group of colonists and British redcoats. It began with the colonists throwing sticks, snowballs, and stones at the redcoats. The British opened fire on the crowd due to the physical threats they were receiving. In total five colonists were killed. This was a major event that supported the colonists' revolution. Colonists who supported the revolt used the event as a propaganda against the British publication and victimization of the event in newspapers. -
Boston Tea Party
The Boston tea party was a raid of three ships that belonged to Britain in the waters of the Boston Harbor. The Sons of Liberty, a radical group, brought other colonists together to disguise themselves as Indians and throw the contents of several hundred boxes filled with tea into the port of Boston as a protest against Great Britain. They were upset about the new tea taxes. The British Parliament, therefore, passed the coercive acts or the intolerable acts. -
Coercive Acts
In response to the colonists' acts against taxation by the British to the detriment of colonial goods, the British Parliament passed a series (5) of laws to keep their authority. Because of their civil disobedience, these laws were created to punish the colonists in Massachusetts. For example, the British closed the Boston Harbor until all tea that was thrown and wasted was paid off by the colonists. The colonists' saw this as a violation of their natural rights. -
Olive Branch Petition
With high tensions between colonists and Britain, the colonists and Britain were on the verge of war. Despite the earlier battles of Lexington and the Boston Siege, the second continental congress adopted the Olive Branch Petition to assert their rights, while also maintaining their loyalty to the King. This was the colonists' last attempt to avoid war with Britain. When the petition was sent to the king, he refused to read it, making it clear to the colonists that war was the only option. -
Common Sense
Written by Thomas Paine, this book quickly became a best seller, having almost 120,000 copies sold. Thomas Paine 's Common Sense was published on 10 January 1776. The things written in it laid the basis for the independence ideals that led the colonists into the revolution. Paine argued two main points in the book, independence from England and the creation of a democratic republic. Because the book was cheap and easily available, his ideas spread and gained popularity. -
Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence is a document created by the Second Continental Congress meeting Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Declaration of Independence meant that the thirteen American colonies were free and independent from Great Britain. It was written by Thomas Jefferson and revised by the Committee of Five. It was made up of Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston. It was signed by 56 members and was officially adopted on July 4, 1776. -
Massachusetts Constitution
After the war, the young colonies of America tried to get a working government together, straying away from Britain's ideas. Massachusetts was one of the first attempts at this new radical government. This document was a model for the U.S. today. Many of the ideals set out in the Constitution of Massachusetts have also been used in our current Constitution. It is the oldest working constitution in the world and laid the foundation for our three branches of government and an early bill of rights. -
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The Constitution
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Articles of Confederation
After gaining its freedom, America now had to build its own Government from the ground up. The first attempt was the Articles of Confederation, America's first written constitution. Though it did its job of uniting the country, it had major flaws that became evident shortly after. The Federal Government was too weak to enforce laws and have any authority over the states. The 13 states acted more like their own individual nations under the articles, doing what they wanted, however they wanted to. -
Shay's Rebellion
A group led by Daniel Shay took over the courthouse in Massachusetts. Daniel Shay and his followers rebelled against economic and civil injustices. Because they were under the articles of the Confederation, Congress could not tax America which had enormous war debts. This rebellion was the first major test against the AOC. It shed light on how weak the government actually was. Shay's Rebellion showed officials how far the riot had gotten before someone stopped it. This event was a wakeup call. -
Northwest Ordinance
This law for the admission of new states to the United States was adopted by the Second Continental Congress. This law was primarily intended for the territory of Ohio, which was subsequently divided into Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Illinois. This law will later be regarded as a "template" in the history of America for the admission of states to the Union and as guidelines for what a state must have before it is admitted. This method provided a bill of rights that would be guaranteed. -
Constitutional Convention
With the Articles of Confederation clearly ruining the young nation, 55 delegates from across the country met at the old Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia to amend and revise the current constitution. One of the major compromises in the Constitutional Convention was the relationship between small and large states. The small states wanted every state to have the same number of Congressional representatives. The big states wanted population - based representation. -
Three Branches
Our federal government 's powers are divided into three branches: legislative, executive and judiciary. There are separate but equal branches. They have special responsibilities with regard to the laws, the principles which govern our country. The concept of separate branches with separate powers is called "separation of powers." The branches control each other's powers and use a system known as checks and balances. This system was designed so that no branch had more power than the rest. -
Election of 1788
The 1788 election was important since it was the first presidential election. George Washington had been elected President and the vice president John Adams. Everyone wanted George Washington to become president as he received all 69 electoral votes. George Washington was considered as "Father of the Country." This was the first time in the new nation that people really exercised their right to vote, although it was only white males. -
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New Republic
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Second Great Awakening
The Second Great Awakening began around 1790 & gained followers by 1800 & focused on religion. During this time, injustices had a chance to be addressed. To alleviate suffering, the awakening led to the establishment of reform movements. The effects on religion also had effects on society and the movements themselves. Preachers held large revivals in hopes of bringing the importance of religion back. It revived religion and made way for many large religion "groups." -
Federalists
The federalists were one of the first ever political parties in the U.S. A strong central government believed in the federalist. They thought that the central government should have more power than the state. The Federalist supported and opposed the Bill of Rights. They believed that the government was preserved by checks and balances. They longed for a strong central government and favored wealthy elite and urban businessmen, but they did not stand behind a bill of rights. -
Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights, by James Madison, comprises the first ten constitutional amendments. It was a list of amendments limiting the power of the government and protecting the citizen's "natural rights." They were written in response to the people who asked for the federal government to protect individual freedoms more effectively. Without them, the government would be able to remove rights and people would not be protected as they are today. These rights can not be taken away. -
Bank of United States
Alexander Hamilton proposed the first official bank of the United States as a way to repair the economy. After the war, some states went bankrupt and a unified currency was needed. The U.S. Bank was privately owned and could be invested in. This allowed wealthy people to become even wealthier by investing in the bank. For this reason, many disliked the system on which the bank operated, as they saw the bank as a way for only a few to profit at the expense of many. The bank ran for 20 years. -
Whiskey Rebellion
Alexander Hamilton issued a tax on Whiskey to generate revenue. This tax infuriated farmers in western Pennsylvania, who made a nice amount of money to sell it. The whole situation escalated after farmers became violent. Unlike Shay's rebellion, George Washington led a group of soldiers and quickly overthrew this rebellion. This was the first test against the new United States Constitution and gave an example of the power and strength held by the Constitution. -
Election of 1796
The Election of 1796 is the third presidential election in the United States. A new president was needed because George Washington refused to do a third term, giving his farewell address. Federalist John Adams won the election with 71 electoral votes defeating Thomas Jefferson who had 68 and was a Democratic-Republican. John Adams became president and Thomas Jefferson became the Vice President beating Thomas Pinckney. Federalist supported Adams, whereas Republican supported Jefferson. -
Washington's Farewell Address
George Washington wrote a 32-page address near the end of his second term as a "letter to his fellow citizens and friends." In his farewell address, Washington warns about the dangers of longterm "foreign entanglements" or ties with other countries. President Washington warns against "geographical distinctions" and an "excessive political party spirit." George Washington retired to his home in Mount Vernon, Virginia, after he had published his Farewell address. -
Kentucky Resolutions
The passing of the Alien and Sedition acts caused an uproar among many people. One of the most notable people was Thomas Jefferson and James Madison and their point of view were published in Kentucky's resolutions. Since Congress was firmly under Federalist control, the struggle against the acts of alien and sedition fell to the state. In the resolutions, Thomas Jefferson affirms the idea that states have the power to annul or flatly ignore federal law. -
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The Age of Jefferson
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Louisiana Purchase
One of the most important things Thomas Jefferson did during his tenure was to acquire the vast territory of Louisiana from the French empire. Bought for only 7 cents an acre, it doubled the size of the United States and expanded the nation to the west from the Mississippi River. The soaring revelation of the Manifest Destiny and the yearning of the Americans to expand to the west on this new land came with this event. After this, colonists were exposed to new land to explore. -
Lewis and Clark
Thomas Jefferson had just bought the large territory of Louisiana, but the vast majority of the geography and topography of this territory were unknown. At the request of Jefferson, Lewis and Clark were sent to map and explore this unknown territory. While they discovered hundreds of unknown animals and plants, they enlisted the help of a native American girl named Sacajawea during the expedition. Lewis and Clark took a total of two years to travel almost 8,000 miles. -
Battle of New Orleans
The battle of New Orleans was the last and most important fight in the 1812 war. Andrew Jackson led a diverse army of slaves, pirates and Indians who did not know that a peace treaty had been signed a few weeks earlier. This was the most important battle because America had won it, which greatly enhanced patriotism and led to the era of good feelings. It also labeled Andrew Jackson as a hero who earned him a great success and later leading him into becoming president. -
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The American Industrial Revolution
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Adams-Onis Treaty
The Adams- Onis treaty was a treaty between Spain and the U.S. concerning the selling of Florida from Spain to the U.S. It was signed by the John Adams and Luis de Onis, hence the name. Although Spain receded no money, the United States assumed responsibility for $5 million worth of damage the Americans has caused in the rebellion against Spain. It was important because the acquisition of Florida helped to expand the country and established new frontiers of the time. -
Panic of 1819
After the 1812 war, the Panic of 1819 was the first major financial crisis of in the United States. This led to the collapse of the entire US economy. Widespread bank failures and shutdowns ravaged the country. The nation's unemployment rates rose, accompanied by a decline in agricultural output and production capacity, which marked the end of economic expansion after the war of 1812. Banks were closed and many houses and farms were foreclosed. Nearly everyone in the U.S. was affected. -
Missouri Compromise
The American legislature was sharply divided over Missouri's statehood. The admission of Missouri would affect the delicate balance between free and slave states in favor of the slave states. Making his document known as the Missouri Compromise, Clay stated that Missouri would be recognized as a slave state and Maine as a free state. In addition, slavery could not exist above the 36* 30 latitude line. Because of this event, the idea of popular sovereignty came about. -
Mass Production
The North is notoriously known for its factory based economy. One of the reasons the North could base its economy on the industry was the ability the North had to mass produce goods at a low and affordable cost. Steam powered engines powered Northern factories this allowed for factory outputs to soar, increasing the outputs of goods and increasing the profitability of industrialization. Many textile mills, such as the Lowell Mills, hired many women and children to work in these factories. -
Temperance Movement
Led by Frances Willard, the temperance movement was a protest against the consumption of liquors, a movement that was mostly supported by women. Men would come home intoxicated, having spent all their earnings on alcohol and beating their wives. Thus giving a reason for the push towards the ban of alcohol. To support the movements claim, many brought in the health issues alcohol brings. By the 1830s, the temperance movement was considered one of the largest and most successful of its time. -
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Cultural Changes
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Monroe Doctrine
The Monroe Doctrine was an address given by James Monroe to the Congress. It was a political party ideology. He wanted to define the foreign policy of the United States. Europeans would not be able to establish new colonies in North America's independent countries. He also talked about how America can not interfere with or conflict with European colonies. He made it clear to Europeans that they can not regain power. If done so, it will be taken as an act of war. This made the U.S.' point clear. -
Election of 1824
In 1824, the wartime hero Andrew Jackson was running as the Democratic Party's presidential candidate. Jackson won the popular vote, but in the electoral college, neither candidate won a majority. Thus, under the 20th amendment, the 6th presidency would be decided by the House of Representatives. While Jackson was a popular candidate, in 1824 he lost to Adams. This has led many to suspect that Henry clay had prompted a deal for Adams to win the presidency, as Clay was made Secretary of State. -
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Age of Jackson
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Cotton Gin
Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin to decrease the amount of human work and the work required to remove seeds from cotton. The mechanization of this idea made cotton plantations much more convenient and profitable by placing cotton faster on the market than before, where they had fewer workers and less time. It had also increased cotton production, making it cheaper and easier to distribute worldwide at a reasonable price. However, slave owners found this as a need to have more slaves. -
Railroads
Railroads impacted American transportation significantly. Using trains was more efficient and quicker than other forms of transportation. Railroads got picked up popularity during the 1830s. The first railroad was built in Boston in 1807. Railroads were usually used for privately for companies and the state. By 1860 there were more than 30,000 miles from New York City to the Mississippi River. Even if railroad cars were uncomfortable, the way locomotives were designed fascinated many. -
Spoils System
This system is an unfair way of showing appreciation towards supporters. The system first came about after Andrew Jackson's usage. The Spoils System was the practice of presidents removing political opponents and replacing or giving public office/civil service positions to their supporters. Usually, when this system was used, the president was one who treasured loyalty over education and merit. If anything, loyalty was a more important job qualification than knowledge and work experience. -
Andrew Jackson
A war hero in the Battle of New Orleans during the 1812 war, Andrew Jackson earned the nickname " Old Hickory, " as many people saw him as the strongest and hardest of men. Many people saw him as the "man of the people," because of his campaigning tactics, which led him to win the presidential elections in 1828. Andrew Jackson inspired a completely new democratic division called "Jacksonian Democracy." He was revered for his robust and decisive leadership in office and politics. -
Election of 1828
The election was between Andrew Jackson and John Adams. This election was very messy as Jackson was seeking vengeance against Adams for the "corrupt bargain." They attacked each other, saying negative things that impacted votes. Adam's supporters even attacked Jackson's wife. In the end, Andrew Jackson won the election with 56% percent of the popular vote & 178 electoral votes. He was the 7th president of the United States. Jackson was the voice of the common man. The Democratic party grew. -
Anti-Abolitionist
Anti-Abolitionist were pro-slaves. They hated and were against the abolitionist movement. They held rallies to put a stop to abolitionism. Anti-Abolitionist also had bonfires to burn abolitionist books. Basically, Anti-Abolitionists did everything in their power to keep slavery alive. Most Anti-Abolitionist were the white people in the south and wanted to keep their slaves so they can work on for them. They came up with the "gag rule," meaning one could not speak upon the issue of abolitionism. -
Abolitionists
Abolitionist are people who did not agree with slavery and wanted to eradicate the practice of slavery. These people included Harriet Tubman and William L. Garrison. During the time of the Underground Railroad, many abolitionists helped the slaves by providing them homes, necessities and helping them through the south to reach the north. The Republican parties who were abolitionist opposed slavery greatly. Abolitionist thought slavery as a violation of the slave's natural rights. -
Mormons
The Mormons are a religious group of people who also called themselves Latter-day Saints. A man named Joseph Smith led the Mormons until he was martyred by a mob. He said had had visits from God and called it, The First Vision. The Mormons were a part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. The Mormons were constantly attacked by mobs until they decided to migrate and settle west, the land that was seen as land that no one else wanted, to seek religious freedom. -
Nat Turner's Rebellion
Nat Turner’s Slave Rebellion was a revolt in Southampton, in which near 70 slaves killed about 60 white people. It was led by Nat Turner, a preacher who believed God had chosen him to lead the slaves to freedom. He took the solar eclipse as a sign to start his rebellion. This was an important part of history because it was the first time that a slave revolt against white people was successful. This created fear among southern whites after seeing how easily they were killed off. -
Trail of Tears
The Trail of Tears took place when president Andrew Jackson passed the Indian Removal Act. Land-hungry Americans wanted to expand westward, and the only thing stopping them were the Indians. Indians were forced to leave their grounds and move to Oklahoma. Jackson's act mainly targeted Cherokee Indians, who had to march for 800 miles west of Mississippi to be settled far from their home. During their travel, 4,000 Indians from the 16,000 died from a mixture of hunger and disease. -
Nullification Crisis
In response to the 1832 tariff, which was very unpopular in the south, South Carolina in particular, John Calhoun brought forth the Nullification Theory. It stated that states could nullify federal laws that they considered as unconstitutional. This created a large "debate" on the constitution and raised another issue: the power balance between the federal and state governments. Problems such as this have created tensions which lead to issues between states and the federal government. -
Free Black Communities
With the Nation going under big industrial changes, Freed African American slaves put together entire neighborhoods as their place in American society. The communities were mainly settled in the northern states such as Philadelphia and New York. Although these Blacks were free, they were not protected against racial inequality and injustices. Under the Fugitive slave law, many Blacks in these communities were captured and returned to plantations. Others experienced racism from northerners. -
Whig Party
The Whig Party was one of America's political parties. They believed in a strong government and a powerful national bank. The Whigs were not in agreement with the Democratic Party and President Andrew Jackson. They thought that Congress was more important than the executive branch. It was formed by people against Jackson and Democrats in 1833. Due to the conflict of slavery between their own members, they fell apart in the 1850s. After the Whig's downfall, many joined the Republican Party. -
Battle of Gonzales
The Battle of Gonzales was the first military battle of the Texas Revolution. Texas would slowly drive the Mexican army out of the territory. The slogan "come and take it" became widely known as the news spread. After American colonists refused to return the small cannon they had been given at an earlier time, Mexican troops went to retrieve it. The Americans welcoming them with a white flag made of a woman's wedding dress that read "come and take it" with a pictured cannon. -
Battle of San Jacinto
The Battle of San Jacinto was a war that took part in the Texas Revolution and was the last battle of the Texas Revolution. The Mexicans were led by Santa Anna and the Texans were led by Sam Houston who surprised the Mexicans. The Texans defeated the Mexican army, leading to the gain of the land in Texas. Hundreds were taken prisoner during the war. Santa Anna was to sign the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in return for his freedom after he was captured by Sam Houston. Texas declared Independence. -
Lowell Mills
Everyone, women, men, and children, had to work during the industrial revolution. Women's roles shifted. The Lowell Mills was one of the first women hire factories. It was a textile factory in Massachusetts, Lowell. In the 1840s, around 75% of the workforce were women. They were called " Mills Girls " & " Lowell Girls. " They were hired because they could be paid less by the owner since they were women. In the Lowell Mills there were approximately 8,000 textile workers. -
Manifest Destiny
The manifest destiny was America's belief that the as a nation, America was destined and had a sole duty of moving westward to conquer the west for a second chance in life. This was because they believed that God blessed America and America's growth, that it was a god who wanted to move westward. However, what this meant to the Americans was that they had the right to destroy any obstacle that got in their way, no matter who or what was affected. This "right" affected the Indians the most. -
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Westward Expansion
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Telegraph
A man named Samuel F. B. Morse invented the telegraph. Samuel Morse revolutionized the entire communication system when he created the telegraph, transforming society with his invention. The telegraph allowed people to communicate over great distances, allowing one to transfer messages faster and more efficient through a wire. This helped when it came to war communication, especially the Civil War. Lincoln used it to send direct orders to generals contributing to their victory. -
Sam Houston
Sam Houston was a Texas politician and governor. He is best known for being a Texas Revolution leader. Houston joined the army in 1812 during the War. He settled in Texas in 1833. In 1836, the United States of America selected Sam Houston as its commander. In the battle of San Jacinto, Sam Houston led the army to defect Santa Anna. He secured Texas independence. He was the governor during the civil war and Houston decided to break away from the Union and join the Confederation. -
Mexican-American War
The Mexican American war had been fought over Texas between Mexico and the United States. James K Polk wanted to extend his faith in the Manifest Destiny to the West. Polk sent troops to the Mexican troops to attack the border. Border disputes existed between the two countries. America declared war on Mexico and Mexico fought for land they thought was theirs. The leader of Mexico was Santa Anna. The US was led by Zachary Taylor. The war ended with the Guadalupe Hidalgo Treaty. -
Bear Flag Revolt
In California, the Bear Flag revolt took place. The Mexican authorities were rebelled against by the revolt. California was declared a republic. It ended with the annexation of California by the United States. The revolt was given its name because of the people who revolted, were called the "Bear Flaggers". Because of this revolt, it led to the creation of the California Republic flag pictured with the grizzly bear next to a red star. -
Treat of Guadalupe Hidalgo
The Guadalupe Hidalgo Treaty was been signed between Mexico and the United States. This Treaty brought the Mexican American War to an end. The war in Mexico was a land dispute between Mexico and the United States. Mexico was forced to abandon the lands of California, Texas, Nevada, Utah, Colorada and New Mexico. The US had to pay $15 million to Mexico and withdraw troops from Mexican territory. This satisfied the belief of moving westward for god, otherwise known as the Manifest Destiny. -
Suffrage
Women's Suffrage was a movement advocating for women's voting rights. Elizabeth C. Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, and Lucy Stone were the three main figures behind this movement. These three would lecture and speak their ideas around the country. This movement's goal was for women to earn the right to vote. They felt it was their right as they too were citizens of the United States. Their goal was achieved when the 19th amendment was passed, and women were finally given the right to vote. -
Seneca Falls Convention
The Seneca Falls Convention was held for women's rights. This event took place in Seneca Falls, New York, hence the convention's name. This officially launched the movement for woman suffrage. Women suffrage is a woman's right to vote. Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony and Lucy Stone spoke out for women's right, including equal social status and legal rights. They wanted equality for women. However, not everyone was for this movement as newspapers were shaming them for this convention. -
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Sectionalism
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California Gold Rush
When gold was first found in California, the news spread like a wildfire. Soon many Americans in 1849 started to migrate to California in hopes of finding gold. These migrants were known as the 49ers. Miners from all over the country would travel to go in the river and seek for gold. Wherever the gold was, people would move in and mine for gold. However, when the gold was gone, the towns would become deserted. Some of the people became wealthy but others left California without anything. -
Compromise of 1850
After the Mexican-American war, the Congress passed a series of laws for the new land that was acquired. The northern and southern states argued if the new territory should or should not allow slavery. Henry Clay created the compromise. He proposed that California should become a free state and that the slave trade in the District of Columbia should be illegal and that New Mexico and Utah should be slaves. He also wanted the Fugitive Slave act to become stricter. -
Underground Railroad
The underground railroad was a route where slaves were carried from the south to the north to escape slavery in order to be free, not a real railroad. People who helped the slaves guide were called conductors. Slaves could rest in safe houses run by abolitionists. A well-known conductor was named Harriet Tubman. In the night, slaves would travel to reduce the risk of being caught. Over 100,000 slaves escaped. Quakers and abolitionists helped the slaves escape. -
Industrialization vs Agriculture
The north and south both differ in many ways because of the land they are both settled on. The north lack good farm soil, resulting in the move towards industrialization. They built factories, focusing on the mass production of goods so they are able to trade. Transportation is big in the north. Since the south is settled on more fertile land, they have their focus on agriculture. Cotton is a huge cash crop, and to acquire it, the whites need slaves to grow and harvest it. -
Kansas-Nebraska Act
Two newly joined states were Kansas and Nebraska. The South was afraid of another free state and wanted the Missouri compromise to be abolished. Stephen Douglas wrote this law and passed it on 30 May 1854. Both states were allowed to choose whether they wanted to be a slave state. It was a compromise based on popular sovereignty. The act of 36' 30' was repealed. A new region was opened for slavery and the abolitionists were angry. In the future, however, Kanasa became a free state. -
Election of 1860
There were two Democrats during the 1860 election. The Democrats were John Breckinridge and John Bell, the official Breckinridge and the unofficial Bell. Abraham Lincoln was the Republican who ran against it. During this time, America was divided over slavery. Many wanted slaves in the south, but the north didn't. Abraham Lincoln believed that slavery in the newer states should not be allowed. Slavery was supported by John Breckinridge. Ultimately, Abraham Lincoln won the 1860 election. -
Fort Sumter
The battle of Fort Sumter was the first battle of the civil war. Fort Sumter is on an island in South Carolina. Confederates were the ones who shot the first shots fired in the Civil War. President Lincoln told them there would be a supply ship going to Fort Sumter. The Confederate knew, however, that the Union would attack. General P.G.T Beauregard led the Confederates. He told Major Anderson to give up or he'd fire, but he didn't give up. -
Trent Affair
A U.S. Navy officer, captain of the USS San Jacinto, illegally captured and ordered the arrest of two Confederate diplomats from a British ship, the Trent. Great Britain was quick to protest and address the matter. By accusing the United States of violating British neutrality, the affair ended with no incident but created a crisis between both countries during the civil war from November to December 1861. This event threatened war with the British. -
1st Bull Run
The first battle of Bull Run was the first big battle in the civil war. The battle occurred on 21 July, 1861. General McDowell ordered the Union to attack that morning. They thought the war was going to end rather quickly. Thirty thousand union troops marched south. The Union outnumbered the Confederates. The Confederates, however, won the battle. The Union was not trained. President Lincoln was forced to recruit another 500,000 union soldiers, and he hired McClellan to become the new general. -
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The Civil War
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Women at Work
During the Civil War, the majority of the northern men had to fight for their country. Some men volunteered and others joined the war. Because the men left, women in factories, hospitals and more had to fill their spots. In traditionally male positions, the war gave women new roles. They have become teachers, nurses and supervisors. They became farmers and planters in the south. An American Red Cross was established by a woman named Clar Barton to help soldiers on both sides. -
Gettysburg Address
The Gettysburg address was an address made on 19 November 1893 by President Abraham Lincoln. He spoke at Gettysburg in Pennsylvania. The speech was short but important. One of the greatest speeches in history is this two - minute speech. At the height of the civil war the speech was delivered. The reason for this speech was the dedication of the Gettysburg national cemetery. It honored those who died during the civil war in the Battle of Gettysburg. Six months later, it was given. -
Lincoln's Assassination
On 14 April 1865, John Wilkes Booth shot President Abraham Lincoln. At the Ford Theater, Abraham Lincoln participated in the play " Our American Cousin. " He was in the presidential box with his wife Mary. John Wilkes Booth shot him with a small pistol in the back of his head, and Wilkes hurt his leg while trying to escape. Lincoln was taken to the hospital nearby and died on the 15th. When soldiers found him, Booth was hiding in a barn. They illumined the barn and a soldier shot him. -
Freedmen's Bureau
The Freedmen's Bureau was founded in 1865. It was established to help the free slaves. Slaves freed are called freedmen. The Freedmen Office is a war - torn South relief agency. They gave food, schools and emergency services to the freedmen. The land was confiscated and given to the freedmen people together with a mule. It was referred to as 40 acres and a mule. It was the main reconstruction institution. Schools were provided by the Freedmen Bureau for the former slaves. -
KKK
For Ku Klux Klan, KKK is short. They want to create fear for blacks through violence. Their aim is to frighten the liberated African Americans and remove their rights. They were also attacking whites who supported blacks. The KKK wants White supremacy to be restored. They ride horses to stir terror at night. The Ku Klux Klan is covered with white hooded costumes to hide their identity. It represents the dead Confederates ' fantasy. They do anot agree with racial equality. -
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Reconstruction
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Ulysses S. Grant
Ulysses S. Grant was born on 27 April 1822 and passed away on 23 July 1885. He was the 18th US president and served two terms. Ulysses S. Grant was a Republican Party member. In 1973, the stock market crashed, causing panic for the economy. There were many people who lost their jobs. He fought for African American rights. Ulysses S. Grant also fought in the civil war. He had Robert E. Lee in Appomattox Court House to surrender to him. In 1885, he died of throat cancer.
