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The Boston Tea Party
The Boston Tea Party was a protest by American colonists against the British government’s Tea Act, which allowed the British East India Company to sell tea directly to the colonies, cutting out local merchants. This event is significant to the Colonial Period of the United States as the colonists resisted British economic control and protested the Tea Act by dumping tea into the Boston Harbor, increasing tensions with the British and becoming an event leading up to the American Revolution. -
The Battles of Lexington and Concord
The battles of Lexington and Concord marked the beginning of the American Revolution; the battles between colonial militias and British troops further showed the colonists’ readiness to fight for their independence, which sparked larger resistance against British rule. These battles are significant to the Colonial Period of the United States, as they further united the American colonies and gave them hope for the future as they defeated the British in the battles. -
The Declaration of Independence is Signed
The signing of the Declaration of Independence marked the American colonies’ formal separation from British rule, laying the foundation for the United States as an independent nation. This event is significant to the Colonial Period of the United States as it symbolized the colonies’ stand against British oppression and their commitment to independence, setting the stage for the American Revolution. -
The Winter at Valley Forge
The Winter at Valley Forge was an important period during the American Revolution, as during this period, the Continental Army endured hardship because of a lack of supplies, disease, and other harsh conditions caused by the winter. This period is significant to the Colonial Period of the United States as it transformed the army into a more disciplined and effective fighting force, significantly impacting the eventual success of the colonies' fight for independence. -
Articles of Confederation are Ratified
The Articles of Confederation served as the first governing document of the United States, creating a weak central government with limited powers. This event is significant to the Colonial Period of the United States as it highlighted the colonists' fears of a strong central government while also creating a weak government that would have to be replaced in the future. -
The Battle of Yorktown
The battle of Yorktown marked the end of the American Revolution; General Cornwallis, a British general, surrendered to General George Washington and the French forces, ending Britain’s attempts to regain control over the American colonies and forcing them to recognize the independence of the US. This battle is significant to the Colonial Period of the United States as it secured the nation’s independence and allowed it to grow, eventually becoming the most powerful nation in the world. -
The Constitution is Ratified
The ratification of the Constitution marked the establishment of the United States as a nation with a strong federal government. This event is significant to the Colonial Period of the United States because the Constitution replaced the weaker Articles of Confederation, allowing for a stronger federal government that previously held little power as it had no army, money, or means to collect taxes. -
Presidential Inauguration of George Washington
The Presidential Inauguration of George Washington marked the beginning of the US presidency, with his presidency setting key precedents for the role. President Washington established traditions, such as the two-term limit and the peaceful transfer of power, showcasing how a president could give up their position willingly. The event is significant, as it was the inauguration of the first president of the nation, who created traditions that have been mostly followed to this day. -
Washington’s Farewell Address
President Washington’s Farewell Address was an important moment in American history, as it is where he gave his final warnings and guidance for the nation before he left office. He advised against permanent foreign alliances and forming political parties, while also emphasizing national unity and urging caution in foreign relations. This event is significant to the Colonial Period of the United States, as it laid the foundation for the nation’s foreign policy. -
The Death of George Washington
The death of George Washington marked the passing of the first President of the United States and one of the key figures of the American Revolution. His death is significant to the Colonial Period of the United States because of the large role he played in fighting for the nation's independence and the role he played as the nation's first president. -
Election Day, 1800
The Election Day of 1800 was important as it resulted in Thomas Jefferson’s victory over the current President, John Adams, signifying the first peaceful transition of power between two political parties in U.S. history. This event is significant to the Colonial Period of the United States as it showcased how the new system of government was effective and how the peaceful transfer of power could continue even through the differences between two separate political parties. -
Marbury vs. Madison
Marbury vs. Madison was a Supreme Court case in which Chief Justice John Marshall established the idea of judicial review, ensuring the Supreme Court’s authority to invalidate laws that conflicted with the Constitution. This decision is significant to the Colonial Period of the United States because it solidified the role of the Supreme Court and how the judiciary branch would perform checks and balances over the other branches.