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Declaration of Independence
Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence document. This document formalized the American colonies' will to separate from British rule. It also served as a foundational text for the United States, symbolizing the fight for liberty and democracy. The day is now celebrated annually in the U.S. as Independence Day. -
American Revolution
The 13 American colonies fought against Great Britain to gain independence and established the United States of America. The key causes of this war was the colonists were able to oppose British taxes, enlightenment ideas, and Britain military actions. -
Treaty of Fort McIntosh
The Treaty of Fort McIntosh was signed between representatives of the United States and various Native American tribes, primarily the Wyandot, Delaware, and Seneca. The treaty aimed to define boundaries and establish relations between the U.S. and the tribes. -
Article of Confederation
Continental convention was held in Philadelphia to revise Article of Confederation, the constitution was approved on September 17, 1787. The Articles of Confederation establish a confederation of sovereign states and a weak central government. -
First President
George Washington was elected as the first president of the United States. His leadership set many examples for the office, including the establishment of a cabinet and the practice of serving only two terms. Washington helped stabilize the new nation and build public trust in the federal government. -
Louisiana Purchase
The United States acquired approximately 830,000 square miles of territory from France for $15 million. This purchase doubled the size of the U.S., opened up land for exploration and settlement, and significantly advanced westward expansion, leading to the idea of Manifest Destiny. -
War of 1812
The War of 1812 was fought against the United States and Great Britain. The war created a national identity and unity, particularly after key victories. The Treaty of Ghent ended the war, and the post-war period led to the "Era of Good Feelings," marked by national expansion and economic growth. -
Missouri Compromise
This legislation permitted Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state, maintaining the balance between free and slave states. It also established the 36°30′ parallel as dividing future free and slave territories. -
Antebellum Era
The Antebellum Era was a period before the Civil War characterized by significant social, economic, and political changes. The rise of abolitionism, women's rights movements, and economic differences between the North and South boosted regional tensions. The era set the stage for the conflicts leading to the Civil War. -
The 16th President
Lincoln led the nation during the Civil War, preserving the Union and working to end slavery through the Emancipation Proclamation. His leadership and vision for a united nation were important in shaping modern America.