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Massacre at Mystic
A group of English settlers and their Native allies attacked a Native village, resulting in many deaths. This violent event marked a big moment in a war between the settlers and the Native people. It changed the balance of power and led to the decline of that Native tribe. -
The Scalp Act
A law was created to inspire people to kill Native Americans by giving money for their scalps. This led to violence and conflict, as it made it easier for settlers to attack Native communities. The law showed how deep the tensions were between settlers and Native people during that time. -
The 3/5ths Compromise
A decision was made to count enslaved people as three-fifths of a person when deciding a state's population for representation in government. This compromise was meant to balance power between free and slave states but also showed the unfair treatment of enslaved people. It was a big moment in American history that reflected the country's divisions over slavery. -
Slave Trade Ends in the United States
The United States finally ended the importation of enslaved people in 1808. This decision was a step toward declining slavery, but it did not end the practice within the country itself. Many people still fought for freedom and rights, leading to continued tensions and struggles over slavery in the years to come. -
Battle of Tippecanoe
American troops fought against Native American warriors led by Tecumseh's brother at a site called Tippecanoe. The battle was about control over land as more settlers moved into Native territories. The American victory made tensions worse and led to more conflicts between settlers and Native peoples. -
The Missouri Compromise
An agreement was made in 1820 to keep a balance between free and slave states in the U.S. One state was allowed to have slavery while another state was created without it. The decision aimed to ease tensions over slavery, but it only gave a short-term solution to a growing problem. -
Indian Removal Act
A law was passed in the 1830s that forced Native American tribes to leave their homelands and move to designated areas in the West. The act aimed to open up land for white settlers, leading to the suffering and displacement of thousands of Native people. Many faced long and difficult journeys, resulting in great loss and struggles. -
Nat Turner Rebellion
A group of enslaved people led by Nat Turner rebelled against their owners in Virginia. They aimed to fight for their freedom and ended up killing several white people. The rebellion was quickly put down, but it caused fear among slaveholders leading to harsher laws against enslaved people. -
Trail of Tears
Thousands of Native Americans were forced to leave their homes and walk long distances to new lands in the 1830s. Their journey, known for its bad conditions, led to many deaths due to hunger, disease, and exhaustion. It was a tragic event that showed the consequences of government policies against Native peoples. -
The Fugitive Slave Act
A law was passed requiring people to help catch escaped enslaved individuals and return them to their owners. The law made it very risky for African Americans, even those who were free, as they could be captured and enslaved. It created a lot of tension and anger between the northern and southern states. -
Dred Scott Decision
A Supreme Court ruling said that an enslaved man, Dred Scott, could not sue for his freedom because he was not considered a citizen. The court also stated that Congress could not restrict slavery in the territories. This decision worsened tensions between the North and South and pushed the country closer to the Civil War. -
Emancipation Proclamation
An establishment was made during the Civil War that freed enslaved people in the Confederate states. It aimed to weaken the South's ability to fight and inspired many enslaved individuals to escape or join the Union Army. While it did not end slavery everywhere, it was an important step toward freedom for many. -
13th Amendment
A constitutional change was made that officially abolished slavery in the United States in 1865. This amendment made sure that no one could be held as a slave or forced to work against their will. It marked an impact stepping toward equality and justice for all people. -
14th Amendment
A change to the Constitution was made in 1868 that gave citizenship to all people born in the U.S., including enslaved individuals. It also gives out to everyone with equal protection under the law. The amendment aimed to make sure that all citizens had the same rights and protections. -
15th Amendment
A declaration to the Constitution was made in 1870 that gave African American men the right to vote. This amendment stated that the right to vote could not be denied based on race or color. It was an important step for political equality and empowering formerly enslaved people. -
Battle of little bighorn
A conflict happened between U.S. Army forces and Native American tribes, including the Lakota Sioux and Cheyenne. The Native Americans, led by leaders like Sitting Bull, defeated General Custer and his troops in a surprising victory. This battle showed the struggle for land and rights between the U.S. government and Native peoples. -
Battle of Wounded Knee
A tragic confrontation took place between U.S. troops and Lakota Sioux people at Wounded Knee Creek. The soldiers aimed to take out the Native Americans, but violence broke out, leading to the deaths of many, including women and children. This event marked the end of armed Native American resistance in the Plains. -
Plessy vs. Ferguson
A Supreme Court case ruled that racial segregation was legal as long as buildings for both races were "separate but equal." The decision supported laws that forced separation, especially in schools and public places. It allowed discrimination against African Americans for many years until it was tipped over later in history.