1776-1860 Events

  • Declaration of Independence

    Declaration of Independence
    The Declaration of Independence announced separation of the 13 British colonies in North America from Great Britain. It explains why the colonies are separating as well as the people' rights that must be respected.
  • Peace of Paris

    Peace of Paris
    This agreement recognized U.S. independence and granted the U.S. significant western territory. Signing this treaty ended the American Revolution.
  • Adoption of the Dollar

    Adoption of the Dollar
    The U.S. adopted a decimal monetary system. They chose the dollar as the unit, and were the first nation to do so.
  • Northwest Ordinance

    Northwest Ordinance
    This established the framework for governing the Northwest Territory. It established clear processes for claiming, settling, and organizing western lands.
  • George Washington's Inauguration

    George Washington's Inauguration
    George Washington, the first president, was inaugurated in New York City. The vice president elected was John Adams.
  • Cotton Gin

    Cotton Gin
    Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin. This was one of the first signs of the Industrial Revolution.
  • Constitutional Convention

    Constitutional Convention
    This meeting took place in Philadelphia with delegates from 12 of the 13 original states. These delegates created the U.S. Constitution.
  • Battle of the Alamo

    Battle of the Alamo
    The Mexican army won, killing almost all Texian defenders. The battle symbolizes resistance for the people of Texas.
  • Pony Express

    Pony Express
    This was a mail delivery service that connected the East and West coasts of the U.S. It was nearly 2,000 miles long from Missouri to California.
  • Abraham Lincoln President

    Abraham Lincoln President
    Abraham Lincoln was elected the 16th president of the U.S. He declared the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing slaves within the confederacy.