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Crossing of the Delaware river
On December 25, Washington launched a surprise attack against a British fortification at Trenton, New Jersey, that was staffed by Hessian soldiers. He did this by crossing the river overnight on December 25th. On December 16th, after one hour of confused fighting, the Hessian s surrendered. Only five American soldiers were killed. -
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The Constitutional Convention
The Convention succeeded in completing a rough draft of a constitution.
A Committee of Style was appointed to create a final draft; Governor Morris was chosen to write it. After carefully reviewing the draft, the Convention approved the Constitution on September 17. After signing it and sending it to Congress, the Convention adjourned. -
John Adams is elected president
John Adams, after a long battle, is elected president of the United States. -
The Louisiana Purchase
America purchased a great amount of land from the French on order to continue manifest destiny. -
The Writing of the Star Spangled Banner
Francis Scott Key wrote the famous words of the Star Spangled Banner which was written after the bombardment of Fort McHenry. -
Monroe Doctrine
President James Monroe introduced the Monroe Doctrine as part of his annual message to Congress. It opposed further European colonization in the Americas, and promised to not interfere with the internal affairs of European countries or their existing colonies. -
Battle of the Alamo
The siege of the Alamo began at San Antonio, Texas. It ended in the beginning of March. -
The end of the Mexican-American War
American troops effectively ended the Mexican-American War by taking over Mexico City. This would gain America new land and states. -
Publishing of "Uncle Tom's Cabin"
Harriet Beecher Stowe published this book in order to bring light to slavery and show how bad it is to others. This eventually helped lead to the start of the American Civil War. -
The first oil well in America is drilled
The first oil well was drilled in Pennsylvania to a depth of 69 feet. The following morning it was discovered to be successful.