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Thomas Jefferson Becomes President
Jefferson's election was the first example of a peaceful transition of power from one party to another. -
John Marshall Becomes Chief Justice
Marshall's time as Chief Justice was marked by landmark cases such as Marbury v. Madison, McCulloch v. Maryland, and Ogden v. Gibbons. During his term (He served from 1801 until his death in 1835) he established the process of judicial review. -
The Louisiana Purchase
Jefferson caught wind of France's plans to sell the Louisiana territory to Spain. Fearing Spanish encroachment, he decided to try and vie for the land. Although buying land wasn't an express authority given to the president per the Constitution, Jefferson thought it was too good of a proposition to pass up. He doubled the size of the United States for only $15 million. -
James Madison Becomes President
The first Inaugural ball was held after Madison's swear-in ceremony. During his presidency, he forbade trade with Britain but traded with France. He also led America through the War of 1812, causing a surge in nationalism. -
The War of 1812 Begins
The War of 1812 has often been called the Second War for Independence. Britain had forcibly take American ships and seamen and incorporated them into their navy, undermining America's want for neutrality. People were anxious for war with Britain, and rejoiced when Madison formally declared war. A popular phrase shouted by the people was, "On to Canada!" -
Treaty of Ghent Ends the War of 1812
The Treaty of Ghent was signed in Ghent, Belgium. Both sides were required to give back any conquered territory, and the Treaty designed a clear border between Canada and the US. Although the war was little more than a stalemate, there was a surge in national pride as Americans shouted with he same fervor as "On to Canada!", "Not one inch of territory lost!" -
The Battle of New Orleans Takes Place
The Battle of New Orleans was the greatest American victory throughout the whole war. However, it was waged two weeks after the War of 1812 had officially ended. The battle, with American forces led by General Andrew Jackson, elevated national pride and made Jackson popular. -
James Monroe Becomes President
James Monroe had a very extensive career before his presidency. When he swore into office in 1817, he was the first president to have his inauguration ceremony outdoors and to present his inauguration address to the masses. -
Adams-Onis Treaty
Although the treaty was signed in 1819, it wasn't effective until 1821. The treaty was arranged between John Quincy Adams and Luis de Onis, settling border disputes between Spain and America. Spain ceded the Florida Territory to America, further expanding its borders. -
Monroe Doctrine Officially Declared
The Monroe Doctrine forbade European powers from trying to meddle in American affairs.
