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Declaration of Independence
The thirteen colonies declare independence against Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence is endorsed by Congress. -
Siege of Yorktown
The victory at Yorktown, Virginia formally ended the Revolutionary War and gave America its independence from Great Britain. -
Treaty of Paris
Great Britain formally recognizes the loss of its power and territory over the thirteen colonies. The Treaty of Paris is signed to recognize America's new independence and boundaries. -
Birth of the United States Constitution
The Founding Fathers create a new, strong Constitution after the Revolutionary War that presents a balance of new guidelines for the United States. The Constitution comes into effect in 1788. -
George Washington is elected as the 1st U.S. President
George Washington is elected as the United States' first president. He is represented on the one dollar bill and served for two political terms. (8 years) -
Bill of Rights
President George Washington first sent 12 amendments adopted by Congress to the States. On December 15th, 3/4ths of the States ratified 10 of these amendments known as "The Bill of Rights". -
Louisiana Purchase
The United States and France formally made a purchase of 15 million dollars in exchange for the Louisiana Territories west of the Mississippi River. After making this purchase the United States practically doubled overnight! -
Atlantic Slave Trade Abolished
January 1, 1800 Congress passed a law that made the Atlantic Slave Trade officially abolished, however this law did not come into affect until 1808. This law prohibited any slave trade between nations. -
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo formally ended the war between Mexico and the US. After Mexico ceded the US acquired everything both north and west of Texas. -
The birth of the Republican Party
The Republican Party was formed by opponents or abolitionists of slavery. This party was opposed to the expansion of slavery.