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Oct 12, 1492
America is "discovered" by Christopher Columbus
The North American continent is discovered by Spain, causing the massive exploration lust. Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 32 -
First expedition lands on Roanoke Island
While one of the first colonies established in the New World, ultimately was left mysteriously desolate. Quinn, David B. Set Fair for Roanoke: Voyages and Colonies, 1584 - 1606. Chapel Hill: The University of North Carolina Press, 1985. -
Jamestown is founded
Jamestown is one of the most prominent English colonies Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 51 -
King James I signs 2nd Charter for Virginia Company of London
This charter causes massive influx of settlers to Virginia, indentured and otherwise Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 52 -
The first Thanksgiving is celebrated on America's land
A group of Protestants and Native Americans gather in New Plymouth to celebrate a fall festival. Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 57 -
The Cambridge Agreement is signed
This agreement allowed for the Puritans to establish their own religious colony in Massachusetts Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 59 -
George Washington is born
George Washington becomes the first President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 202 -
The Proclamation Act is passed by Great Britain
This was one of the inflamatory acts that sparked the American Revolutionary War Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 140 -
The Currency Act is enacted
This Act banned all Colonials from paying British debts in anything but silver or gold Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 142 -
The Sugar Act is enacted
This Act further increased tax on molasses and sugar. Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 142 -
The Quartering Act in enacted
This Act forced the Colonial Americans to board or quarter British troop, with no ability to protest. Led to the 3rd Amendment of the Bill of Rights Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 142 -
The Stamp Act is enacted
This Act taxed both Colonial Americans and British alike on papers, and similar products. Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 143 -
Boston Massacre
First major conflict between British soldiers and Colonial Americans, leaving a small number of Colonials dead Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 146 -
The Boston Tea Party
Colonials dress up as Native Americans and dump approximately $90,000 worth of tea into the Boston harbor. Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 148 -
Washington is chosen to lead America's troops
The Second Continental Congress convenes and elects George Washington to lead America's troops in an armed resistance to the British troops Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 153 -
The Ride of Paul Revere
Paul Revere and Wiliam Dawes ride through the night to warn of arrest warrants for Samuel Adams and John Hancock, as well as warn of impending British troop movements Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 152 -
The Shot Heard 'Round the World
Shots fired at Lexington and the subsequent battle at Concord are, traditionally, the first battles of the American Revolutionary War Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 152 -
The Battle of Bunker Hill
Misnomer, the battle was actually fought on Breed's Hill. Massive casualties on both sides, one of the most costly military maneuvers in early American history Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 154 -
King George III declares that America is in rebellion
This is the royal decree that give the Crown the right to suppress the Colonial uprisings Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 156 -
Declaration of Independence is penned and signed
This document declared that America was free from her captor, Great Britain Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 159 -
Washington crosses the Delaware
A surprise attack on Christmas morning (A holiday not yet celebrated in America), led to increased morale and supplies Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 165 -
The Battle of Yorktown
British troops surrender in Yorktown, signalling the ending of the war Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 169 -
Virginia Plan is set forth in the Philadelphia Convention
The Virginia Plan becomes the core of Constitution of the United State of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 189 -
Constitution is Ratified by New Hampshire
This was the final ratification needed for the Constituion to become law. Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 194 -
Judiciary Act is passed
This act established the Supreme Court Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 206 -
George Washington becomes the first President
George Washington is inaugurated as the first President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 204 -
Rhode Island ratifies the Constitution
Now the Constitution was ratified by each of the States Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 194 -
Bank Act of 1791 is enacted
This created a central bank for the United States of Americe, under control of the federal government Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 210 -
Jay Treaty is signed with Great Britain
One of the first treaties of the new country, which was hated by the people Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 218 -
Pinckney Treaty is signed with Spain
Adjusted northern border of Florida and allowed for trade through New Orleans Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 219 -
Washington does not seek reelection
This two term pattern is considered tradition until made law in 1951 Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 220 -
John Adams becomes the 2nd President
This showed a solid verification that the people elected their ruler Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 222 -
Department of the Navy is established
This formally established the United States Navy after the Continental Navy was disbanded. "Continental Navy established" History https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/continental-navy-established (accessed January 29, 2019). -
George Washington dies
America loses her first President and defender Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 220 -
Convention of 1800 is signed with France
This ended an arguably warm War with France. Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 226 -
Thomas Jefferson is elected
Thomas Jefferson becomes the 3rd President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 230 -
Apex of the Second Great Awakening
A period of time when America became increasingly interested in religion Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 299 -
Naturalization Law is passed
Reduced time required to become a naturalized citizen from 14 years to 5 years Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 241 -
Ruling on Marbury v. Madison is delivered
Estalbished many legal precedences, including the role of the Supreme Court as a governing body Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 241 -
The Louisiana Purchase
The Lousiana territory is purchased from France and Bonaparte for $15 Million Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 247 -
12th Amendment of the Constitution is ratified
This amendment clearly outlines how a tie in the electoral college is rectified. Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 231 -
Aaron Burr kills Alexander Hamilton
As Vice President, Burr kills Hamilton in a duel Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 243 -
The Embargo Act is enacted
This prevented American ships from trading to anybody else who wasn’t American Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 250 -
James Madison is elected
James Madison becomes the 4th President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 251 -
The Embargo Act is repealed
Having done nothing it was intended to do, it was repealed Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 250 -
The War of 1812
Congress voted to go to war with Great Britain Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 253 -
The Star Spangled Banner is written
The poem that would become the national anthem is written at Fort McHenry by Francis Scott Key Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 255 -
Great Britain troops burn the capital
The White House and other public buildings were put to flame by British troops Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 255 -
Treaty of Ghent is signed with Great Britain
Ended the War of 1812 Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 256 -
The Tariff of 1816 is enacted
This placed a 20% tariff on all durable goods entering the United States Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 258 -
James Monroe is elected
James Monroe becomes the 5th President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 263 -
The Panic of 1819
The first financial panic of the US. Affected 1/3rd of population Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 264 -
Treaty of Onis-Adams is signed with Spain
Spanish claims upon Florida and portions of the Louisiana Purchase are ceded to the United States. Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 268 -
The Missouri Compromise
All states above the 36 degree, mark 30 minutes, were to be admitted as free states and all states below were to be admitted as slave states Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 266 -
John Quincy Adams is elected
John Quincy Adams becomes the 6th President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 270 -
Andrew Jackson is elected
Andrew Jackson becomes the 7th President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 321 -
The Indian Removal Act was passed
This act led to the removal of thousands of Native Americans, on what is known as the Trail of Tears Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 329 -
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is organized
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints eventually becomes one of the leading colonizers of the west. Our Heritage: A Brief History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1996 -
Martin Van Buren becomes president
Martin Van Buren becomes the 8th President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 339 -
Mormon Extermination Order is signed in Missouri
Governor Lilburn Boggs signs a declaration with statements regarding the extermination of the Mormon people. Our Heritage: A Brief History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1996 -
Martyrdom of Joseph Smith, Jr.
The prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is martyred, along with his brother, Hyrum. Our Heritage: A Brief History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1996 -
James K. Polk is elected
James K. Polk becomes the 11th President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 339 -
Texas becomes a state
Texas is admitted as the 28th state of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 364 -
The Smithsonian Institute is founded
Created using funds donated by James Smithson's will, this institute becomes the center of American knowledge Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 307 -
The Oregon Treaty is signed with Great Britain
America acquires the Oregon Territory Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 358 -
America declares war on Mexico
This begins the Mexican-American War Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 359 -
The American Medical Association is established
America starts to search for her own knowledge Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 307 -
Mormons arrive in what will become Salt Lake City
Mormons arrive in the Salt Lake valley, and begin to colonize Utah, Idaho, Arizona, Nevada, California. Our Heritage: A Brief History of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1996 -
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is signed with Mexico
This treaty ended the Mexican-American War Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 368 -
Zachary Taylor is elected
Zachary Taylor becomes the 12th President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 373 -
Millard Fillmore is elected
Millard Fillmore becomes the 13th President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 377 -
President Zachary Taylor dies
He becomes the 2nd President to die while in office Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 377 -
Abraham Lincoln is elected
Abraham Lincoln becomes the 16th President of the United States of America Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 403 -
The Confederated States of America is established
The final seeds of the Civil war sprout. Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 408 -
Federal forces fire upon Fort Sumter
This is the beginning of the Civil War Linda Rhoades-Swartz and Jerry Baydo, Early American History to 1877: An Interactive Text, (National Social Science Press, 2012). 415