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The First Colony is Founded: Jamestown
The first permanent colony is founded. Jamestown,VA consisted mainly of men, with little to no women. The early years are called 'The Starving times'. The death rate was 80%. 104 men and boys arrived; 50 died from May to September in 1607. After 2-3 years the colony finally had Harvest. Rice, Indigo, Lumber, and Tobacco. Tobacco becomes a cash crop. With the success and lucrative market for the aforementioned crops, The king creates the Headright system. To attract families to the new colonies. -
The Mayflower Compact
This was the first attempt at self-government, in the second colony to touch North America. The Document was signed by all male settlers.The colonist who signed founded the Plymouth Colony.These colonists were Separatists,a sect of Puritanism that believed in separating from the Anglican church.The group struggled to attract converts and was eventually overshadowed by Puritans.The Puritans hated corruption and the remnants of Catholocism in England.The Puritans had no struggle to gain converts. -
Roger William is Banished from Massachusetts
Roger Williams was banished from the Colony of Massachusets. He spoke out and lived against Puritanical beliefs. He preached for separation between Church and State. He also advocated for religious tolerance. In his banishment, Williams founded the Rhode Island colony in 1636. This colony was a success (especially in the early 1700s). The Providence and Newport ports were among the busiest in the New world. Rhode Island was also the first colony to prohibit the importation of slaves. -
The Stamp Act
The Stamp act made it so that any legal documents needed a Tax stamp. Without it, your document isn't official. This act applies to wills, deeds, newspapers, pamphlets, birth certificates, &c. This affected, most notably, the wealthier class. The rich and newspapers used their influence to spread discontent throughout the New World. This created major tension between the colonies and England. It didn't make the situation any better when the Quartering Act followed 2 days later, on March 24th. -
Boston Massacre
The Boston massacre was a fierce event that was a turning point for many a colonist. Nine soldiers were being heckled by a mob of three to four hundred colonists. As push turns to shove, verbal assaults became frozen rocks.The English killed five people in response. Martyrs are made. The Colonist's unrest was caused by the Town shed and Quartering Act, and other injustices from the crown. Paul Revere created an image of the event that became an influential piece of pro-revolutionary propaganda. -
Boston Tea Party
A band of men met at the bar/clubhouse of revolutionaries, The Green Dragon, and at mid-day, ran through the streets of Boston toward the Harbor. Shirtless, and dressed as Native Americans. They dumped the equivalent of 1.8 million dollars worth of taxes in tea into the Harbor. "The Empire Strikes Back" with the Intolerable Acts and closing of Boston ports. Along with the enforcement of prior acts, specifically the Quartering act. Seeing that Boston is a port town, very few were left unaffected. -
Boycott of British Goods
Due to many grievances,including:The Intolerable Acts,The Stamp Act,the military brigade blocking of the Boston Harbor,the brutal enforcement of the Quartering Act, &c.The 1st continental congress got together and created a boycott of British goods until parliament would rescind the Intolerable acts.The 1st congress also drew up the Declaration of Resolves,and other Petitions to urge parliament and the king to repeal the Intolerable Acts.No real change resulted from these actions, unfortunately. -
First Battle of the American Revolution; Lexington And Concord
This is the first successful rebellion against Britain and the official beginning of the Revolution. British troops had the intention of seizing American war prep, i.e guns, ammo, and other weapons. American spies relay this, and Paul Revere makes his famous ride, alarming American citizens of Red Coats on their way. Americans were able to prepare. With only 90 Americans hurt or dead, the British had 250 men injured or dead. The minute men effectively drove the British back to Boston. -
Olive Branch Petition
The Olive branch petition was a compromise made by the delegates of the 2nd continental congress. Radicals believed the only solution was war with Britain, the Conservatives believed the colonies should seek atonement with the King. The petition called for representation in parliament, and a reduction of taxes, without this war. The king rejected the petition, declaring the colonies in a state of rebellion. The colonies sign a Declaration of Independence a year later. -
Common Sense is Published
Common Sense was written by Thomas Paine. This book spread like wildfire, its contents a call to action to stick up for liberty and fight for American rights in the Revolution against the British Empire. The book was written in the vernacular, it appealed not only to the wealthy class but also to the working man. It's called a "Brilliant propaganda piece" by Mr. Russel. Paine donated the proceeds of this book to the Continental Army and later joined that same army. -
The Battle of Saratoga
The British had 4 armies of 10,000 men,the U.S had three of 7,000 men.The British planned to surround the U.S army with a second army,to outnumber and beat the U.S. Washington caught wind of this plan and sent a second army of his own.Due to knowledge of terrain,the U.S beat the British to the punch. Surrounding and beating the single army before the second arrived.The English lost 1500 men.This leveled the playing field,to 3 vs. 3, which convinced the French to send aid,helping us win the war. -
Articles of Confederation go Into Effect
The Articles were called "[a] Mirror of all our fears", by Mr. Russel. This is America's first attempt at government. The document made Federal Government Taxation illegal, a reflection of many acts from the British. There was no army in this new country, a reflection of the quartering act. With this new government, there was the North West Ordinance, which expanded our country west. It took the Shays Rebellion to shine a light on the cracks in the system. -
Cornwalis' Surrender
After the battle of York Town, where the English suffered a brutal defeat, losing 142-309 men. We have the French navy aid to thank for this win. Cornwallis' pride was hurt, and he refused to deliver his surrender personally and sent a lieutenant to do it in his stead. Meanwhile, in the background, a British band played 'A World Turned Upside Down'. This was the first successful revolution against the English, where America's freedom was finally won. -
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Constitutional Convention
Shay's Rebellion called for a second try at Government Resulting in the Constitution, the federalist papers, and the 3/5ths compromise. Tension was high between two groups of people, the Anti-federalists, those that believed people should possess more power (favored bill of rights), and the Federalists who believed the government should hold more power (favored constitution). Compromise added the bill of rights to the Constitution as the Amendments. -
Washington's Inaguration
Pres. George Washington gave his inaugural speech on the balcony of Federal Hall in NYC NY. This is the first of many presidential precedents that Washington set. He later goes on to establish the 2-term reign, and form his own cabinet of advisors. Washington was adored. He was also a Federalist, and while he never verbally said so, his actions did. -
Federal Judiciary Act
This Act was signed into law by George Washington during his second year in office. Article III of the Constitution established a Supreme court and left establishing lower courts to congress. State courts can appeal to Federal Courts if constitutional questions are raised. The president is able to appoint justices, giving him power over the court system. There is always an odd number of justices. Courts were organized and a system of law and order was brought to the new world. -
The Cotton Gin is Invented (Whitney recieves Patent)
Eli Whitney invented the Cotton Gin in Georgia, in 1974. The device removes the seed from the cotton fiber. This machine made cotton profitable. Slavery and Plantations also boomed across the south, prior to the Gin slavery was slowly dying out in the U.S, but with the Gin and such a small market plantations were started. It changes the course of the South entirely. Cotton was dubbed "White Gold" due to the enormous profit turned. It established the Southern Aristocracy. -
Destruction of Bower Hill
The Whiskey Rebellion was a response to unfair taxing put on the working class. The people grew angry. One night an angry mob of 500-700 men goes to tax collector Nevill's house, believing that he had murdered a civilian. They demand his resignation. Nevill refused, tension rose, and eventually, Nevill shot at the mob, and they shot back. It was too long later that the Rebellion was ended by the American military. -
Revolution of 1800
Thomas Jefferson wins the Presidency, replacing John Adams. The first bloodless transfer of power. While it was bloodless it wasn't without a coup. Adams appointed the Midnight Judges, to oppose the new president, when this was unsuccessful a supreme court case was filed. -
The Louisiana Purchase (Signed)
J.Monroe was sent by U.S Pres.Jefferson to purchase New Orleans to maintain trade in the western states regardless of foreign relations.This original offer was rejected.Later, Napoleon Boneparte sold us the Luisianna territory for 15 million dollars.This was due to many factors,the French army was stretched thin with the Great French War and the Haitian Revolution,which they were losing. They didn't have the manpower to protect the North American territory. Wars are also expensive when you lose. -
The Battle of Thames
This victory for the Americans was a major turning point in the war of 1812. The battle was against The Tecumseh Confederation (an alliance of Native American Tribes) and the British. During this battle, Tecumseh was killed, which caused the T. Confederation to dissolve. Americans made a profit from this battle. Though a victory, the war wasn't over, nearly a year later the British burned the capital building. -
The British Burn the Capitol Builting
After a brief battle, Washington City surrenders. Nearly all Government buildings in the town are burned. The first lady at the time Dolly Maddison refused to leave the original White House. She organized staff and was able to save priceless paintings and documents. The Star Spangled Banner, our national anthem was written about this night. -
Treaty of Ghent
This document officially ended the war of 1812. Borders were reinstated. Peace still remains between the U.S and Britain. The document was signed in Ghent, Belgium. It took a while for the news to reach the site of the war, and the bloody battle of New Orleans still took place after it was signed. The treaty was signed relatively in secret, and when word hit, the U.S citizens felt betrayed and saw the delegates as traitors. All were voted out of office. The treaty was ratified on Feb 16, 1815 -
Election of 1824 "The Currupt Bargain"
Henry Clay v.John Q. Adams v.Andrew Jackson v.William Crawford. Jackson had the most votes; not the majority. The House of Rep. now elect the Pres. Clay decided to drop from the race( he's in House of Rep). Crawford dies before the decision is made. Adams and Clay have a meeting. After, Clay backs Adams winning him the presidency. Clay is also appointed Secretary of state. People believe it's a Corrupt Bargain. This ruins Adam's Reputation, and he loses the support of the people. -
Compromis Tarriff of 1833
The Nullification Crisis strikes the U.S. Our Southern States submit the Nullification Ordinance, where they threaten to secede from the country if forced to abide the tariffs of 1828 & 1832. Enraging Pres. Jackson. Henry Clay creates the Compromise Tariff of 1833, in which the Tariffs will decrease annually by 10%. Supporting the Gov.'s right to tax, and the State's Rights with the fact that the Tax will slowly disappear. the participation trophy of politics, everyone feels like a winner. -
Texas Declares Independece
In an attempt to grow economically, the Mexican government opens the Texan border to Americans. The smell of free land attracts too many Americans and the Mexican government can't get them to stop entering the territory. Large taxes and military presence were employed, but so were anti-government American values. A rebellion soon followed. Angry citizens declare their independence, and a year later Texas is recognized by the U.S. as a country, or are they? -
Final Day of the Seige of the Alamo
It took a year for America to recognize Texas as a Country, and the U.S. did not offer military assistance in their rebellion against Mexico. Still, some Americans went to offer their service. Davey Crocket & other troops gathered at the Alamo to defend against Santa Anna. It was a 13-day siege. They were grossly outnumbered by 1,000-1,600 v. 189. Every Texan defender died. "Remember the Alamo" The number of American deaths called the U.S. gov. to action, they later offer to annex Texas. -
Texas Becomes a State
The Alamo becomes a call to action for the American government, due to the amount of U.S casualties, not just in the Alamo alone but throughout the Mexican v. Texan war. The U.S. offers to annex Texas, which would give the U.S. cause to enter the war and aid Texas. A vote was put in place and was extremely close. 49.9% v. 51.1%. Texas was annexed into the U.S. and the border fight began. -
The North Star is Published
Fredrick Douglass, "A brilliant mind", said Mr. Russel one day in a lecture. Douglass was a runaway slave, who educated himself and became a very passionate abolitionist. Douglass Published the North Star, a paper dedicated to the Abolition of Slavery. While it was dedicated to abolition it also discussed suffrage and other human rights issues. He was a living contradiction/counterargument to the south's belief that having slaves was a "Positive good". -
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Signed
This treaty officially ended the war between Mexico and America. By its terms, the southern U.S border became the Rio Grande, Mexico also seceded 55% of its territory which became known as the Mexican-session. In which the U.S. gained 535,000 square miles in territory. Mexico also gave up claims to Texas. -
Last Day of Seneca Falls 1848
This was a convention organized by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. A place to discuss/debate rights for women. Around 300 men and women were there. The Declaration of Sentiments was created. It was signed by men and women. It concerned equality between the sexes and called for women's right to vote. Everyone who signed was ridiculed in the Press. Historians believe this is when the movement became a movement, and women's suffrage began to gain ground in the public eye. -
Compromise of 1850
In the North, a diverse economy. In the south, an economy married to cotton. With new territories acquired the Slave v. Anti-Slave State tensions rose, leading to worries of war. Clay created a Compromise: Declaring California a free state, the slave trade was abolished in Washington D.C., strict fugitive slave laws were to be enacted, finally new territories applying for statehood were to be ruled by popular sovereignty. -
Uncle Tom's Cabin is Published
Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote Uncle Tom's Cabin a story about a slave. A book that portrays enslaved black characters in a positive light. It was very controversial and influential. It was criticized by white Americans for an 'overly saintly' portrayal of black Americans. The book was criticized by black Americans for creating black characters that were over simplified/stereotypical. The book spoke to the masses, and spread anti-slavery sentiments across the nation. -
Final Verdict of Dred Scott Case
Dred Scott was a slave, who was relocated with his master to a Free State by the U.S military. Scott sued for his independence, seeing that he was in a territory where slavery was illegal. The Supreme court ruled that you can move your slaves to a free territory and maintain ownership over them. This made all states slave states. -
6 States Secede from the United States
With Lincoln's rise to the presidency, the southern states obtained an irrational fear he would outlaw slavery (it wasn't his original intention) and withdrew from the U.S. By February 1st 6 states had seceded, of those 6 are, Mississippi, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, and Texas. All of which were economically married to slavery. By this point, they had convened and declared themselves the Confederacy, under the leadership of Jefferson Davis. All prior to Lincoln's inauguration. -
The Capture of New Orleans
New Orleans was the Largest and Busiest port for the Confederacy which means the capture had to have been economically stunting and devastating. The capture of New Orleans lead to the Capture of the Mississippi River and was a key part of the Anaconda Plan. It sealed the fate of the Confederacy. -
Homestead Act 1862
Mass immigration and overpopulation hit the major port cities of the east coast, causing the overall quality of living to go down for the residents of said residents. The Homestead Act is passed in an effort to draw Americans away from those cities and into the west. It gave up for free 160 acres, to anyone who would farm the land, as well as live on it, and improve it. It was the opportunity of a lifetime for many. -
Pacific Railway Act of 1862
People believed it was impossible, that coupled with the fact that the U.S. was divided in a Civil war caused funding to be scarce. The Rail companies were paid monetarily but also in land. The land was used to create competition between the two companies. Central Pacific from the west coast and Union Pacific from the East coast. A deadline was set for the project, in 1875. If the companies did not make it, they would forfeit payment. The project was finished in 1869. -
Morrill Land Grant Act of 1862
In the same year as the Homestead act and the Transcontinental Rail Project, there was the Morril Act, which while not as popular but just as important. The federal government granted land to the states for the purpose of building public colleges. These colleges were dedicated to the studies of Agriculture and Mechanical arts. Over 10 million acres were allotted to the states. -
The Battle of Antietam
This battle was the single bloodiest day in American history. At the end of the day, 23,000 men lie dead or wounded on the battlefield. The day ended in Union victory, and proved that the Union could stand against the Confederacy. After this victory, Lincoln delivered the Emancipation Proclamation, which was no matter of coincidence. -
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The Battle of Vicksburg
Vicksburg, a Rivertown on the Mississippi. The Mississippi was a very important route of transportation for goods and communication for the Union and Confederacy. It was a critical piece of the Anaconda plan, an overarching strategic plan to economically attack the Confederacy. An act of Total war. The siege of Vicksburg lasted 47 days, with 32,363 southern casualties. The victory at Vicksburg gave the North control over the Mississippi & divided the Confederacy in two, weakening their Nation. -
The Gettysburg Address
The battle of Gettysburg was a bloody battle, with over 50,000 casualties. The battle convinced the Union & the Confederacy that the Confederacy would never stand alone as an independent nation. Lincoln in his Gettysburg address sought to bring great respect and honor to the soldiers that lost their lives, naming the battlefield a graveyard for those soldiers. Lincoln wanted to bring meaning to their sacrifice. -
Sand Creek Massacre
This was an attack on the Cheyenne and Arapaho people by the U.S. While the cause of the attack was rooted in the power struggle over land, this specific instance was an unprovoked, surprise attack. In which the natives were sorely outnumbered. 160 native men, women, and children died. This moment was a turning point in the relationships between Native American tribes and our Federal Government. -
Freedmen's Bureau
This was an Act passed by congress "to establish a bureau for the relief of freedom & refugees." This act fed millions, it built hospitals, settled labor disputes, legalized marriages for former slaves, and assisted black veterans. This Act was created to help the people suffering in the south. While it was successful short-term and did good things, the lack of funding and other social and economic factors caused it to fail as a whole. It was unable to carry out all of its initiatives. -
Surrender of Appomattox
Following the push and shove of the Final Virginia Campaign (1864-1865), the Union had Confederate General Rebert E. Lee cornered in a courthouse in Appomattox. The Confederates were outnumbered 63,000 v. 26,000. General Lee chose to surrender rather than sacrifice more men's lives. As per the custom of surrendering in times of war, Lee gave up his sword to Grant. Grant returned it. A sign of respect. -
National Womans Suffrage Association (NWSA) is Founded
The National Woman's Suffrage Association is a branch of the suffragette movement that broke apart to radically prioritize women's rights over abolition. The organization was founded by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Antony. This organization fought for a constitutional amendment to secure the vote for women. While this was their primary cause, they supported and fought for others, such as abolition. Eventually, the organization rejoined forces with NAWSA, a sister organization in 1890. -
Womens Christians Temperance Movement (WCTM) is Founded
The Women's Christian Temperance Movement was created to promote abstinence from alcohol. It stemmed from the belief that multiple social issues stemmed from alcohol abuse. The WCTM targeted men's alcohol/substance abuse, but they supported/worked for other causes such as kindergartens, child labor, anti-prostitution, public health, international peace, and suffrage. The WCTM's numbers grew and by 1892 they had nearly 150,000 due paying members. -
The Battle of Little Big Horn Ends/Custer's Last Stand
The U.S.'s greatest loss in the Native American Wars. Not a single one of the American troops survived the battle against the Cheyenne and Lekota. 263 soldiers died, including their Lutientet George Custer. The deaths outraged the States, and only lead to the government's increase in efforts to subdue native tribes. -
American Federation of Labor is Founded by Samuel Gompers.
Samuel Gompers lobbied for short hours, higher wages, and improved workplace safety. By 1900 the AFL had over 1 million members. Became 'model' of what unions could offer, and stimulated interest in labor unions. The AFL organized strikes, slowdowns, walkouts, and violence in an effort to persuade employers to change. Unions were an outlet for Americans to advocate for themselves, and improve the oppressive work conditions of the turn of the century. -
The Dawes Act
An act modeled after the homestead act, that appealed to those that had benefitted from the said act. It granted 160 acres of land to any Native family, and 80 acres to any single Native man. Many single men and families took advantage. Organizations such as Friends of the Indian vouched for the act, 'it would aid in economic assimilation'. The government saw this as a way to gain access to Reservation land & break tribal ties. -
'How the Other Half Lives' is published by Jacob Riles
This was a novel that displayed the horrors of tenement housing and gave one of the first accurate descriptions of what life in absolute poverty looked like. Jacob Riles was a Muckraker, a journalist who wrote about social issues that had been pushed to the side, like the dangers of tenement housing, malnutrition of children, unclean meat factories, etc. This group influence social change and gave the public a call to action for the improvement of lower-class life. -
The Ghost Dance Outlawed
A Paiute name Wovoka prophesied the extinction of white people and the return to the old times of Native American Superiority on the Continent. The Dance promoted said ideals and preached goals of clean living, honest life, and cross-cultural cooperation by native Americans. This enraged the U.S. and motivated war efforts against Native Americans. Orders were made to arrest those performing the Ghost Dance. The Ghost Dance was Outlawed. -
The De Lome letter is Published in the New York Journal
Due to America's own economic interest, they wanted Cuba to maintain stability, but Cuba wanted independence from Spain. So America made conversation with Spain to ease up on the Cubans, which infuriated the Spanish, causing the creation of the De Lome letter. It was published in an American paper and caused civil unrest. "Nothing sells paper like war." And the American public was ready for war after the embarrassment of the De Lome letter. -
Uss Maine Explodes
The U.S. anchored the Navy Battleship, The Main, in the Cuban, Havana Harbor to protect the U.S. citizens in Cuba during this time of political unrest. The Main explodes killing 260 American sailors. Believing this to be an act of war from the Spanish, and having a country full of angry and embarrassed civilians due to De Lome, the President, McKinnley asks congress for $50 million to prepare for war. Plot twist. Spain did not blow up The USS Maine, and we went to war over an accident. -
Carnegie Steel Company is Bought
Andrew Carnegie was a Scottish immigrant. He is the true rags-to-riches story. He went from a poor factory worker to the richest man in the world. He was the owner of Carnegie Steel, which he sold in 1901 to J.P. Morgan for $480 million dollars, $15 billion today. Carnegie donated portions of his wealth to Libraries and schools. Sources say he gave away around 350 million dollars (turn of the century money) during his life, he penned 'The Gospel of Wealth', and did his best to live by it. -
Theodore Roosevelt becomes President
After his service in the Spanish-American war, Roosevelt became the darling hero of American hearts. His legacy leads him to high political standing. He was named the Republican nominee for Vice-President, due to his "wild-card" approach and McKinley's inability to win another election without him. After Mckinley's assassination, Roosevelt was appointed as President, he served two terms. He is well known for Trust-Busting w/the Sherman Anti-Trust Act and his dedication to consumer reforms. -
Samuel Gompers Arrested and Convicted
Samuel Gompers invented the American Labor Union in 1886. This union sought to fight the oppressive work conditions of turn-of-the-century factories. He argued for shorter hours, higher pay, improved safety, and benefits. By 1900 this Union had 1 million members and had become the model for what a Labor union should look like. His arrest was for refusing to heed an injunction not to boycott. -
Lewis Hine Publishes Pamphlet Child Labor in the Carolinas a day before their Time
Lewis Hine was a popular muckraker who used his skills in photography to publishing photos of child labor. His photographs and the works of other Muckrakers like Lincoln Steffans and Ida M Tarbell touched the hearts of the American public and invoked change. Hine's photos in particular were felt by middle-class women, who had the means and the time to make a change. -
Selective Services Act
The Selective Services Act gave the Federal gov. the right to draft men into service, it was made mandatory that a man serve if he was drafted with no illnesses/disabilities that could keep him from serving. 70% of U.S. men were drafted. Swelling our less-than-modest peacetime force to one full of 4.5 million men. Men today register for the draft. -
14 Points are Proposed
With U.S. aid the Germans were pushed back, and it became clear the end was near. So President W. Wilson proposes 14 points to prevent future wars and promote peace. The points include clauses that suggested things like No secret treaties among nations, Freedom of seas for all, the creation of Poland, the Adjustment of Borders, and much more. The 14 points influenced certain points of the Treaty of Versailles, which did not promote positive political and economic attitudes in Germany. -
Russia Leaves WWI
In Russia, the Bolsheviks had taken power, and their goal was to win a civil war, not a world war. So to leave the war they signed the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk with the central powers. With this treaty, Russia lost considerable "territorial holdings". This was a turning point in the war. America had just joined the Allied powers nearly a year prior to Russia's leave of the war. -
The 18th Amendment to Constitution Ratified
The 18th Amendment prohibited the sale of, manufacturing, and transportation of alcohol. What was advocated for by the suffragettes was meant to stop the spread of alcohol, which the Suffragettes believed was the catalyst for habits like gambling, prostitution, etc. However, the 18th Amendment, a.k.a Prohibition, only caused an influx of organized crime, bootlegging, and at-home breweries. Prohibition lasted until 1933. Dry states/counties persisted, but in general, America likes Alcohol. -
Treaty of Versailles
This treaty signifies the end of WWI. Many Europeans disliked the 14 points, they felt the need to punish Germany because of how much their nations suffered due to WWI. The treaty greatly limited the German number of troops in the army and war machines. It forced them to give back any territories taken during the war, no troops allowed in Rhineland, they were fined 33 Billion, and more.These punishments lead to the growth of militarism and hatred in the Nazi Regime that would later take Germany. -
Beginning of Palmer Raids
The Palmer Raids were a series of raids by the U.S. Department of Justice that were meant to find suspected socialists, communists, and anarchists. The goal was to arrest and deport any found communists. This began under the administration of Woodrow Wilson, but Hoover became known for the raids, due to their acceleration and peak under his direction, which contributed to his poor public reputation. Thousands of Americans were arrested and had reputations ruined all over speculation. -
The 19th Amendment is Ratified
The 19th Amendment to the Constitution gave women the right to vote. The right to vote had been a topic of suffrage alongside Temperance. The suffrage movement picked up momentum in the West, due to the harsh way of life. Women played a crucial role in staying alive and oftentimes worked alongside men, this respect lead to the 19th Amendment. Organizations like NAWSA used rallies, marches, and lobbying to advocate for the right to vote. -
Mother to Son by Langston Hughes is Published
The poem was published by Langston Hughes, he was an American Poet living in New York, and a pillar of the Harlem Renaissance, which was an artistic and literary movement that took place during the 1920s and 30s, specifically in the Black community. It has been described as an intellectual and cultural revival of art, literature, and other forms of expression of the black community. People of this movement include W.E.B De Bois, Jesse Redmon Fauset, and Claud McKay. -
The Great Gatsby is Published
The Great Gatsby was written by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The Novel was a window into the Jazz Age and a view into the mind of the Lost Generation. Jazz in particular was extremely popular, a genre that originated in Black Communities. During this time a large generation of adults who had been raised in and spent their young adulthood in war inspired cultural changes. One where the women were loose, the alcohol illegal, and the music loud. Flappers, Prohibition, and Jazz. -
Stock Market Crash
"Dow Jones Industrial Average declined nearly 13%,"-https://www.federalreservehistory.org/ The Stock Market Crash was a large symptom of the Depression. The Depression caused economic turmoil to roll over the U.S., bringing poverty, homelessness, and food shortages to plague the U.S. Rural America felt the effects harshly, with natural disasters, The Dust Bowl, causing mass migration from the plains to California, the travelers dubbed Oakies. America won't recover until after WWII. -
The First Fire Side Chat with FDR
Franklin D. Roosevelt was the president to take Hoover's place, a man who was seen as a do nothing during the early days of the Depression. Roosevelt's solution to the public feeling ignored was to have daily radio broadcasts, detailing the government's actions. The first chat was about his Emergency Banking Act. Roosevelt had his New Deal, in which he created agencies & programs to protect people from economic disaster. He followed the old adage, 'You 'gotta spend money to make money'. -
The Federal Reposite Insurance Corp (FDIC) is Established
Franklin Roosevelt's administration established the FDIC & a national banking holiday in which the banks are held for inspection. This was made possible due to the Banking Act of 1933, which put forth policies and programs to restore the American people's faith in U.S. banks in the Depression recovery era. The depression caused many to lose everything, and to improve the economy, faith in banks had to improve first. -
States Vote to Repeal Federal Prohibition
In 1933, a number of states gathered and worked toward the 21st Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. This amendment repealed Federal Prohibition. However, 2/3 of states allowed their constituents to vote on whether or not they wanted to live in an area with Prohibition, which caused Dry Counties to come into effect. With that being said by 1966 all states had revoked their Prohibition laws. Another interesting display of American values influencing politics. -
Black Sunday
This was a day when an estimated 3 million tons of topsoil blew off the great plains. Reported as one of the worst storms of the Dust Bowl era. The dust bowl was a time period of intense drought throughout the Great Plains. There were large Dust storms that buried homes and farms. Many were rendered homeless, many died, and many migrated to California/the west coast. They were called Oakies and were not received kindly in the places where they sought refuge and work. -
Veterans Protest at the Whitehouse
During WWI, veterans were promised bonuses or their service. They did not receive those bonuses. After the Depression kicks off, fathers, sons, and brothers march to the capitol demanding their bonuses. They felt entitled to this money, and in a time of desperate need, they were begging for the money they felt entitled. After months, Pres. Hoover called the army to evict the men, they burned the camp, and many were injured in the pursuit. -
Executive Order 8802
Franklin Roosevelt's executive order prohibits discrimination in the hiring process in the defense industries. This order was brought on by the nation's desperate need for supplies and factory goods during the war effort. -
Pearl Harbor
"A day that will live in infamy". Japanese planes bombed the shores of Hawaii, those shores docking a significant portion of U.S. warships. This event was caused by the U.S.'s demand that Japan evacuate Indonesia. This event disturbed the American public and was a major catalyst in the U.S.'s entrance into WWII. 2335 Servicemen died alongside 68 civilians. "The sleeping giant was awakened". Days after Pearl Harbor Germany and Italy declare war on the U.S. -
D-Day
The Allied powers spend 18 months planning D-Day, the invasion was canceled and rescheduled 3 times. This invasion was meticulously planned and greatly depended on. A series of waves attack the French shores, Men secretly deployed in the cloak of darkness, beaches stormed, and airborne troops attacked from the air and descended to fight on land. Within 7 days the Allied powers controlled 80 miles of the French coast. -
G.I. Bill Signed into Law
The G.I. Bill was initially created to repay veterans of WWII for their service and the youth they gave up to fight in the war, it persists today in assisting veterans. The bill greatly reduced or eliminated the cost of a college education and gave veterans extremely low/affordable housing loans. The G.I. bill lead to the U.S. having the highest educated workforce in the world, leading to the creation of Levitt towns and the popularity of suburban life. -
Jackie Robinson Joins Brooklyn Dodgers
Jackie Robinson was the first Black American to play in Major League Baseball. This was a huge social change for the U.S., and with that being said, Robinson gave children a figure to look up to. He was a man who broke through the social walls of "The Great American pass time". Robinson met resistance but persevered never once responding negatively to backlash. -
Brown v. Board of Education Topeka
When a young girl was refused admittance to an 'all-white' school due to the color of her skin, legal action was taken. The case goes to the supreme court where it is ruled unconstitutional to segregate American educational facilities and public schools. This decision overruled the Plessy v. Ferguson decision that instituted Jim Crowe laws and legal segregation of white and black Americans in our southern states. This was the first step toward desegregating our educational system and nation. -
Space Race Begins
Whether we touched down on the moon or the conspiracies are true, the space race was a significant piece of the cold war, the USSR and the U.S. were in competition to gain a technological advantage over the other. This era inspired the nation but also contributed to the ongoing arms race and raised tensions between the combating countries. The U.S. wins the race to the moon. "One small step for man, one huge leap for mankind" and an inch closer toward nuclear war with Russia. -
Emmett Till Trial
A 14-year-old boy travels south to visit with his family, the boy allegedly has a conversation with a white woman, causing him to be kidnapped and brutally beaten to death. His mother, outraged, fights for legal justice and publicity. Devastatingly, Emmett Till's assailants are found not guilty, and after they are caught bragging about getting away with murder, the nation is outraged specifically, but not limited to the Black community, this adds momentum to the civil rights movement. -
Russia Developes ICBMs
The development in 1949, in which Russia created Nuclear bombs is followed by their development of Ballistic Missiles. These missiles were able to be rocket launched, and filled with nuclear bombs. They have the ability to strike a target miles away. This caused mass hysteria in the U.S. which is in the thick of the 1st Red Scare. After this discovery, the USSR launches Sputnik, Cuba falls to communism, and the Cuban missile crisis occurs. -
JFK Inauguration
As one of our more youthful; popular presidents, Kennedy left behind a legacy. Kennedy declared war on poverty and under his administration, Medicare and Medicaid were created, as well as the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Kennedy's administration also created the Head Start Program & PBS, both of which are programs dedicated to the education of youth. All of which makes him memorable, however, Kennedy is most recognized due to his death, or rather his assassination. -
Cuban Missile Crisis Ends
During JFK's presidency, after Russia's development of Nuclear missiles, and the spread of communism to Cuba, Russia began to secretly stash missiles in Cuba. This caused a terrifying nuclear stand-off between the two countries, leaving the world worried about the possible beginning of a third world war. Luckily the countries were able to resolve matters with the compromise of removing USSR missiles from Cuba, and U.S. Missiles from Turkey and Italy, after a U.S. naval blockade of Cuban shores. -
Children's Crusade
Hundreds of school kids stage a walkout to participate in a march in downtown Birmington AL, in protest for civil rights. Many adults participated in this march with them. Many were arrested, only for them to be set free and repeat the process the next day. 'Bull' Connor takes action, meeting the protests with violence. Crowds sprayed with fire hoses, and dogs were set loose on civilians. The violence caused JFK to respond supporting the Civil Rights Movement. -
My Lai Massacre
The My Lai Massacre was "the absolute annihilation" of an entire Vietnamese village. Men, women, and children died; killed by U.S. soldiers. What made this war different from the others was the T.V., with the realities & atrocities of war constantly reported in the news, "America lost its appetite for war." Months later, images of the massacre surfaced, which enrages the American public. Causing the men returning from war to be met with strong protests and hate, damning LBJ's political career. -
First Vietnam Draft Lottery
The Vietnam War was a result of the hysterical fear of communism that possessed the Western world, especially the U.S. Wanting to prevent the spread, the U.S. sent aid to S. Vietnam to educate their troops during their civil war, not fight, but after being met with violence from N. Vietnam, an undeclared war ensued. Causing a draft of young men into war. This war was hated by the American population who strongly protested, causing those drafted to be met with disdain for their service. -
Watergate
President Nixon was loved until this pivotal moment in his political career. While it has never been proven he instigated the break-in of a political opponent's office, when the tapes were released it became clear that he was heavily involved in the cover-up. His administration was never the same, the defamation for his deceit caused him to leave office prior to the end of his term. This causes the American public to lose trust in the government, especially the president. -
OPEC Oil Embargo
Members of the Arab Oil Petroleum Exporting Countries placed an embargo against the U.S. in retaliation for U.S. Decision to re-supply the Israeli military and to gain leverage in post-war peace negotiations. Due to this embargo, the U.S. experienced its first fuel shortage and a significant increase in gas prices since WWII. The embargo only lasted until January 1974, but it made its impact on the American economy. -
The end of the Vietnam war
A peace treaty was signed in Paris by North and South Vietnam and the U.S. that signified the end of U.S. involvement in the war. However, the war persisted after the U.S. retreat. In the end, N. Vietnam had the ability to rebuild troops and improve its logistics system, leading to an offensive attack of rolling tanks into the Presidential Palace in Saigon, which effectively ended the war. The outcome of the war and the U.S.'s involvement in it was impacted by the anti-war movement in the U.S. -
Pres. R. Reagan is Elected
Ronald Reagan is one of America's most well-remembered presidents. Reagan is credited with resolving the cold war, through economic manipulation and a firm political hand. He is also well known for Iran Contra Scandal; in which his administration illegally sold weapons to Iran in exchange for Hostage negotiation help, and with the profit of those illegal arms sales funding a revolution/gov. overthrow in Nicaragua. Was very influential positively and negatively in U.S. Politics. -
Iran Contra Scandal Hearings Begin
"What did he know, and when did he forget it." While it was never proven Reagan had any involvement in the scandal itself, he was the man who took responsibility. Members of his administration illegally sold arms to Iran in exchange for Hostage negotiations assistance. With the profits, they illegally funded a Nicaraguan Revolution, in which a communist gov. was overthrown. This had the ability to stain his entire presidency, but he managed to recover and maintain popularity. -
Fall of the Berlin Wall
The Cold War was a war West against the East. Capitalism vs. Communism. The Berlin Wall was a symbol of blocking Western ideas from moving east, and stopping immigrants from fleeing communism. As the cold war finally waned it was announced by the East Berlin Communist Party that people were free to cross the border. Soon after, the wall was brought down by the people. The moment was televised; it inspired and touched the hearts of people all across the world, including those in the U.S. -
LAPD Officers Aquitted of Charges for Assault of Rodney King
4 LAPD officers were found not guilty of assaulting a man named Rodney King. The footage was seen across the nation of the men assaulting King. This led to widespread rioting, looting, and arson across LA. The National Guard and Federal troops were called in to curb the uprising. 60+ people died, and around $1 Billion dollars worth of damages were made. This event caused racial tensions to grow, and distrust of law enforcement and the justice system to intensify across the Nation. -
9/11 Terrorist Attacks
4 Planes were hijacked on September 11th. 2 were flown into the World Trade Center Towers in NYC. One crashed, and another flew into the Pentagon. 2996 people died, and many more were injured. This event caused social outrage and fear among the American public, air travel suffered losses, and gas prices skyrocketed. The rising tensions between the middle east and the U.S. came to a crescendo when the U.S. invaded Afghanistan in response to the terrorist attacks.