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Prohibitory Act
The Prohibitory Act was British legislation that cut off all trade between American colonies and England and removed the colonies from the king's protection. This also prevented loyalists from fleeing the colonies. This helped spark the idea of breaking away from British rule to create the United States of America. -
Olive Branch Petition
The Olive Branch Petition was the final attempt to avoid war between Great Britain and the colonies. The proposal was rejected by King George and Parliament, which strengthened the influence and positions of those who wanted independence. This was one of the main factors causing the Revolutionary War. -
Declaration Of Independence
The Declaration of Independence is a document that was adopted by the Second Continental Congress to announce separation from Great Britain. The purpose of this document was to explain their view on the purpose of human government. This helped America establish their independence from the monarchy rule of Great Britain. -
New Jersey Plan
The New Jersey Plan was the opposite of the Virginia Plan. This proposed a single-chamber congress in which each state had one vote. This was an attempt to resolve the conflict between the representation of large and small states. -
Battle of Saratoga
The Battle of Saratoga was the climax of the Saratoga campaign, which contributed to the victory of America during this Revolutionary War battle. This prevented the British from taking control of the Hudson River. This win helped America support their argument to France that their help is needed, as America had proven they can be stronger than British forces. -
Articles Of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation was an agreement among the original states that served as its first constitution. Its main purpose was to create and plan the structure of a new government to create a confederation. It provided enough structure for eight years while American citizens learned the requirements and qualities of running an effective government. -
Unicameral Legislature
Unicameral systems are a government with one legislative house. Smaller countries with established democracies usually have a unicameral legislature. Laws can be passed more efficiently and less costly in these situations. -
Battle Of Yorktown
The Battle Of Yorktown, also known as the German battle, was a very decisive victory in the Revolutionary War. This was one of the last battles during the war, as General Cornwallis surrendered, and gave the victory to the United States, eventually resulting in their freedom. -
Shay's Rebellion
Shay's Rebellion was an uprising in Western Massachusetts regarding a debt crisis, the state government's increase of taxes, and other factors from political corruption. These fights took place in Springfield for about a year. This supported federalist beliefs that a strong federal government was necessary. -
Federalist Papers
The Federalist Papers is a collection of 85 articles and essays that promoted the ratification of the constitution. These writings were done by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay. Its main emphasis was to identify what powers were reserved for the national or state government. -
Judiciary Act
The Judiciary Act of 1789 was a federal statute that established a supreme court. This resulted in the birth of the judicial branch. This was the first act of congress that partially invalidated the Supreme Court. -
National Bank
The National Bank was a document issued by Alexander Hamilton, asking congress to charter the bank of the United States. He wanted it to be jointly owned by private stockholders and national government. This became a success, as it was the closest thing to a national currency America had. -
Whiskey Rebellion
The Whiskey Rebellion was a United States tax protest that was caused by a revolt against the American government. This was provoked by a tax on Whiskey. When Washington called out the militia who protested the tax, the rebellion collapsed. -
Proclamation of Neutrality
The Proclamation of Neutrality was a formal announcement by George Washington that declared America neutral between France and Great Britain. This sparked debates about foreign policy and constitutional authority Legal proceedings were threatened against any American providing assistance to any country at war. -
Pinckney Treaty
The Pinkney Treaty was created to create intentions of friendship between the United States and Spain. America was granted tax-free navigation of the Mississippi River through Spanish territories, such as New Orleans. Spain agreed to protect America from possible invaders. -
Jay Treaty
Also known as the Treaty of Amity, Commerce, and Navigation, Jay's Treaty was established to settle issues between the United States and Great Britain that had been unresolved since American Independence. This proved to be unpopular through the American public but did maintain peace between the two countries. -
XYZ Affair
The XYZ affair was a political episode early in the presidency of John Adams between the United States and France that led to the Quasi-War, which was primarily fought at sea. It involved an American peace delegation between French foreign ministers looking for a bribe from the American delegation. -
Alien and Sedition Acts
The alien and sedition acts were laws passed by Federalist representatives in congress. These laws included deporting foreigners and making it harder for new immigrants to vote. Thomas Jefferson eventually repealed this act, stating it was unconstitutional, and violated the 1st amendment. -
Checks And Balances
Checks and Balances is the limiting of power by each branch of government. This was established to ensure that all political power is not concentrated in one group. This idea was used in many other governments throughout the world, leaving a lasting impact on how each country runs. -
Revolution of 1800
The Revolution of 1800, also known as the election of 1800, resulted in Thomas Jefferson winning the presidential election of 1800. This ushered in a generation of Democratic-Republican rule. The Federalist party was eliminated shortly after this election.
