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Declaration of Independence Adopted
The Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence, which stated that the 13 Colonies were no longer a part of Great Britain. This resulted in the kicking off of the American Revolution. -
End of American Revolution
The Treaty of Paris is ratified, which pronounced the United States' independence from Great Britain, ending the American Revolution. -
Constitution Signed
After being drafted earlier that year, the Constitution was signed by 39 delegates. The Constitution was put into effect to replace the Articles of Confederation and give more power to the federal government. -
Cotton Gin Invented
The Cotton Gin was a machine that boosted the efficiency of producing cotton by introducing an easier and faster way to separate cotton fibers from seeds. This led to a greater demand for slave labor due to the increase in cotton production. -
Louisiana Purchase
President Thomas Jefferson bought a large sum of land from France for $15,000, which was 4 cents per acre. This purchase drastically increases the United States' land holdings. -
End of War of 1812
Two months after the Treaty of Ghent was signed, the War of 1812 ended. This war established set boundaries between Canada and the United States and solidified the United States' sovereignty by standing up to Great Britain. The war also resulted in the creation of the Star-Spangled Banner. -
Missouri Compromise
Missouri Compromise was passed, which stated that the United States was to have an equal amount of free and slave states. This Compromise acted as a temporary solution to the heated debate over slavery. -
Indian Removal Act
The Indian Removal Act is passed, which forces Native American tribes from their ancestral lands in the eastern United States. These tribes are relocated in present-day Oklahoma. -
Texas Annexed into the United States
After gained independence from Mexico and needing support, Texas asks the United States to annex them, and the United States eventually accepts. This annexation further expanded the United States' territory and aided in completing manifest destiny. -
Dred Scott Decision
In the court case Dred Scott v. Sanford, Dred Scott was suing for his freedom from slavery. Ultimately, the supreme court ruled that slaves could not sue for their freedom and were considered property.