APUSH First Semester Key Terms
The Industrial Revolution
Began in Britain. Eventually spread to other places, including America. New innovations and inventions: canning foods, cotton gin, interchangeable parts, etc. It created the factory system and transformed agricultural production, communication, and transportation across the United States.
Rush-Bagot Agreement of 1817
Between Britain & US. Agreed to a limited naval presence on the Great Lakes. Resulted in the demilitarization of the entire border.
Peace of Paris 1783
Britain formally recognized the USA as an independent nation. All British troops left. Granted generous boundaries. America was officially free
Battle of Yorktown
British General Cornwallis established a base at Yorktown. He thought the British navy controlled American waters and Washington's troops were preoccupied with the British in New York. What Cornwallis did not know was that a French fleet in the West Indies under the command of Admiral de Grasse was on its way to join with American forces in a strike at Yorktown. Washington and Rochambeau surrounded Cornwallis on land, while de Grasse battled the British fleet and won control of the Chesapeake. The British were successfully blockaded. Cornwallis surrendered his army of 7,000. Winning this battle sealed victory of the Revolutionary War for Americans.
Philadelphia-Lancaster Turnpike
Broad highway from Lancaster to Philadelphia. Toll had sharp pikes, which would turn after the toll was paid, which is where the name comes from.
Anne Hutchinson
Brought out the idea of antinomianism—a sharp challenge to Puritan orthodoxy. She was brought to trial in 1638, and she boasted that she had come by her beliefs through a direct revelation from God. The Puritan magistrates banished her, and she moved to NY where she was eventually killed by Indians.
The Great Compromise of 1787
Called for two houses: The Lower house was the House of Representatives. Here, delegates were based on state's population—elected by the people. All bills concerned with taxation and revenue would begin in this house. The Upper house was the Senate. It had 2 delegates per state. Elections were carried out by legislatures. The President was granted the power to appoint officials, veto, and the role of Commander-In-Chief of the military.
Horace Mann
Campaigned for more and better schoolhouses, longer school terms, higher pay for teachers, and an expanded curriculum. Huge influence. Schools improved considerably.
Prairie schooners
Canvas-covered wagons that pioneers stuffed with supplies before the difficult 2,000 mile journey to the new territory. Important to the expansion of population in the Oregon Country.
Tecumseh
Chief of the Shawnee who tried to unite Indian tribes against the increasing white settlement. Gathered followers, urging them to give up textile clothing for traditional buckskin garments. Argued for Indians to not acknowledge the White Man's "ownership" of land. Urged that no Indian should cede control of land to whites unless all Indians agreed
Minute Men
Colonial Militia. Trained to fight on a minute's notice
Battle of Breeds (Bunker) Hill
Colonists seized this hill. 6/17/1775—2000 British troops sent to the hill. The Americans mowed down the approaching redcoats in 2 of the attacks. On the 3rd, Americans began running out of gunpowder. The Americans retreated and abandoned the hill in disorder. 1000 redcoats died; 400 Americans
Francis Cabot Lowell
Combined the spinning machines with power weaving machines at the Boston Manufacturing Company plant, which became a model for new factories.
Ulysses S. Grant
Commander of the Union Army. His first victory was when he captured Fort Henry and Fort Donelson on February 1862. Defeated by a Confederate force at the Battle of Shiloh in April 1862. He drove off a Confederate attack at Shiloh but was criticized for heavy Union losses. Laid seige to Vicksburg in 1863. Won the battle at Chattanooga, and the state of Tennessee was cleared of Confederates. 1864, Grant ordered the frontal assault on Cold Harbor. Many Union soldiers died in the assault, but he captured Richmond and cornered Lee.
Salem witch trials
Concerns about religious purity were at their pinnacle, members of struggling rural families began to accuse their more successful counterparts of witchcraft. Suspected witches were often burned at the stake, hanged, or drowned. Later admitted as a terrible mistake
The Freedmen's Bureau
Developed by Congress on March 8, 1865. Dedicated to educating, training, and providing financial and moral support for former slaves. White Southerners campaigned against it. President Johnson allowed it to expire in 1872. In general, it helped a former slaves achieve some degree of success. Freed slaves began to develop a political unity, learned civil responsibility, and began entering politics.
Cyrus McCormick
Developed the mechanical reaper. It replaced scythes as the preferred method of cutting crops for harvest, and it was much more quick and efficient. The invention helped the agricultural growth of America.
Santa Anna
Dictator of Mexico. Told the U.S. that if he could return to Mexico, he would take over the government, end the war, and give California to the U.S. He was lying. Tried to crush the Texas revolt and who lost battles to Winfield Scott and Zachary Taylor in the Mexican War
The Military Reconstruction Act
Divided the South into five districts, each commanded by a union general and policed by Union soldiers to maintain order and protect civil rights. It temporarily disfranchised tens of thousands of former Confederates, required states to ratify the 14th Amendment if they wanted to be re-admitted to the Union, and states' constitutions had to allow former adult male slaves to vote.
"Manifest Destiny"
Emotional upsurge in which Americans believed that God had "manifestly destined" the American people for a hemispheric career. Land greed and ideals of "empire" and "liberty" were joined. Had a huge influence on expansionist Democrats
(Sir) Isaac Newton
English physicist, mathmetician, astronomer, natural philosopher, alchemist, and theologian. Published theories on gravity and the three laws of motion, laying the groundwork for classical mechanics. Highly influenced the Enlightenment in America.
Elmina
Established in 1492 by the Portuguese. The first of the slave factories Served as a major trading post for shipping slaves to the Americas. By the early 1500s, the slave trade was well established; The slave trade would grow exponentially
Treaty of Tordesillas
Established in 1494. It divided the "heathen lands" west of the Cape Verde Island and gave Spain the right to settle the New World. Brazil was settled by Portugal. Settled the land disputes between Spain and Portugal. It was because of this treaty that Brazil was claimed by the Portuguese.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs
Established in 1836 to handle and administer relations with the Indians. It had no control, however, over white expansion westward. Unable to honor many of the agreements made with the Indians. The frontier that the Bureau had claimed as a permanent settlement for the Indians lasted only into the 1850s as Americans kept moving West
Christopher Columbus
Explorer whose intent was to find a direct route to the Indies. He got funding for three small ships from the Spanish monarchs. He was at sea for six weeks, and then arrived at an island in the Bahamas, where he mistakably named the inhabitants "Indians"Significance: The Columbian Exchage/globalization began. Diseases spread to the Native American populations, and they heavily depopulated.
Separatists
Extremist Puritans that wanted to break away entirely from the Church of England. They settled in Holland but wanted to find a place where they could live as English men and women and as purified Puritans.
Lincoln-Douglas Debates of 1858
Eyeing Stephen Douglas's seat in the Senate, Abraham Lincoln challenged him to a series of debates. Debates took place in cities throughout Illinois but garnered national attention. Debate at Freeport, Illinois was the most famous. Referring to the Dred Scott case, Lincoln asked his opponent if the residents of a territory could exclude slavery before the territory became a state. Douglas replied that in order for slavery to exist, laws were necessary to protect it. Concluded that if the residents did nothing, slavery would essentially be excluded from the territory, an answer that came to be known as the Freeport Doctrine, and cost him the Democratic nomination. Lincoln catapulted to the top of the Republican Party and received its nomination for president
The Whiskey Rebellion
Fed up farmers revolted against Hamilton's excise tax. Began tarring and feathering revenue collectors. Washington army of 13,000 troops from various states to the revolt, but the soldiers found nothing upon arrival; the rebels had scattered.
Bull Run
First battle of the Civil War. If the Union won, the victory would show the superiority of the Union and might lead to the capture of Charleston. On July 21, 1861, the Union and Confederate forces met. A Union victory was thought to be for sure. However, the Confederates won as "Stonewall" Jackson held his line of Confederate soldiers until reinforcements arrived and sent the Union soldiers in disarray. This battle showed both sides that this would not be a short, easy war.
Monitor and Merrimac
First ironcald warships in the Civil War. March 9th 1862, the Union and Confederate ironcleds met and fought to a standstill. Posed a danger to the North's blockade on the South.
Adams-Onis Treaty
Florida became US territory for $5 million. America abandoned claims to Texas.
The Nativist Movement
For many American "natives," the large influx of immigrants in the 1840s and 1850s was a threat of unknown languages and customs. Feared that foreigners would outnumber them and overrun the country. In 1849, nativists formed a group in New York called the "Order of the Star Spangled Banner," which developed into a political party called the "American Party." The anti-Catholic group won many elections until the 1850s, when the anti-Catholic movement subsided and slavery became the focal issue of the time.
Embargo Act of 1807
Forbade the export of all goods from the United States. Actually ended up hurting the New England merchants that it was trying to protect. Illegal trade mushroomed in 1808, where people resorted to smuggling again. Congress repealed the act on March 1st, 1809. Because of this Act, the Federalist Party regained some of its lost power. It also helped to promote industrialism.
Sam Houston
Former Tennessee congressman and governor. Elected president of Texas
Charles Grandison Finney
Greatest of all revivalist preachers. Held crowds spellbound. Preached a version of the old-time religion. "Anxious Bench" repentant sinners could sit in full view of the congregation. Encouraged women to pray aloud in public. Denounced alcohol and slavery.
The 12th Amendment
Guarantee that a voting deadlock would never occur again. Required separate balloting in the Electoral College for president and vice president
George Whitefield
Had a different style of evangelical preaching. Really eloquent. Moved his audiences a lot. Spread a message of human helplessness and divine omnipotence.
Democratic-Republicans
Had a strict interpretation of Constitution. Wanted to support France in their war against Britain.
Webster-Hayne debate
Hayne was serving in the Senate when a fellow senator, Samuel A. Foot, proposed a restriction on the sale of western lands still owned by the federal government. Believing this was an attempt to restrict western expansion and the inevitable political influence of a strong western region, Senator Thomas Hart Benton told the South to join forces with him to defeat the proposal. Hayne recognized the potential benefits of an alliance with the west and stepped forward. Hayne was drawn into a debate against Danel Webster. Webster was able to steer Hayne toward another sensitive issue—nullification. Webster underscored nationalism and the destruction that could befall a nation that allows one state to nullify a federal law. Made himself look like a unifier and Hayne a divider. Webster won the debate with his argument for nationalism, and Hayne lost public support for his interpretation of the Constitution
John Rolfe
He was one of the English settlers at Jamestown. He discovered how to successfully grow tobacco in Virginia and cure it for export, which made Virginia an economically successful colony. He ended up marrying Pocahontas.
Jonathan Edwards
He was the pastor who ignited the Great Awakening. Denounced the belief in salvation through good works. In his captivating sermons, he affirmed the
John Smith
Helped found and govern Jamestown. His leadership and strict discipline helped the Virginia colony get through the difficult first winter. In a fake kidnap by Indians, he was "saved" by Pocahontas, showing that Powhatans wanted peaceful relations with the settlers
Massachusetts Bay Colony
In 1629 a group of Puritans secured a royal charter from King Charles to form this. Proposed to establish a sizeable settlement in the infertile Massachusetts area. It rapidly became both the biggest and most influential of the New England outposts. They had a sense of purpose, believing they had a covenant with God to build a holy society that would be a model for humankind.
The Battle of New Orleans
In 1814, British planned another attempt to overtake New Orleans. armada of 60 ships and 11,000 men, led by Major General Sir Edward Pakenham, set off. General Andrew Jackson quickly rallied his troops and ambushed the British fleet. The American army, which consisted of soldiers, sailors, pirates, militiamen, and freed slaves, used a strategy of revolving firing lines to make sure that guns were always firing at the Redcoats. The British army was forced to retreat after it suffered more than 300 fatalities, including Major General Pakenham. This battle was an overwhelming success for the Americans and made General Andrew Jackson a hero.
The Trail of Tears
In 1838, the U.S. government ordered the forcible removal of the Cherokees from Georgia to the Indian Territory in present-day Oklahoma. Of the 18,000 that began the 1,000 mile, 116-day trek, 4,000 perished on the way of illness, cold, starvation, and exhaustion. The U.S. Army oversaw the march and forced a continuous pace at rifle and bayonet point disregarding the terrible hardship of the travelers
The Continental Congress
In Philadelphia, from September 5th to October 26th, 1774, this group met to discuss problems. Came up with a list of grievances, which were ignored in Parliament. Only Georgia didn't have a representative. Came up with a Declaration of Rights. They agreed to meet again in 1775 (the next year) if nothing happened
Meriwether Lewis and William Clark
In the spring of 1804, Jefferson sent these two men to explore this new territory. Along with a Shoshoni woman named Sacajawea, the two spent 21/2 years exploring the land. They went all the way to Oregon and the Pacific before returning
Washington's Farewell Address
In this, Washington conveyed his concerns regarding alliances—both international and domestic. Said no alliance should be permanent. Encouraged citizens to examine their loyalty to the United States, rather than to individual political parties
Robert Fulton
Invented the first commercially successful steamboat, the Clermont. Steamboats played a vital role in opening the west and south to further settlement. They stimulated the agricultural economy of the west by providing better access to markets at a lower cost. Farmers quickly bought land near navigable rivers, because they could now easily ship their produce out. Steamboats were also much more comfortable than other forms of land transportation at the time.
Samuel Morse
Invented the telegraph. This was an early form of quick communication that helped tie people together regardless of distance.
The Spoils System
Jackson believed in appointing his own staff comprised of his supporters. Rewarded political supporters with public office. This had several negative consequences. Often, the individuals appointed were unskilled, and sometimes incapable fulfilling their responsibilities. Corrupt individuals were placed in offices that they abused, stealing millions from the government.
The Tariff of 1828
Jackson's supporters strategized to sabotage Adams' presidency. They pushed a proposal through Congress that would raise tariffs on manufactured items such as wool and textiles. Since Adams was a New Englander and increase in tariffs would be supported there, Jacksonians hoped to portray Adams as favoring his home region over the south and west. Jackson did not need the tariff to be elected; got elected without it. But the proposal was still there. The tariff was eventually passed and it caused an outrage in the south
The Democratic-Republicans (after 1820's)
Jackson's supporters. Hickory poles were their symbol. Portrayed Jackson as a frontiersman and champion of the common man and said Adams was a corrupt aristocrat—both were untrue
The XYZ Affair
John Adams sent three envoys to France to attempt to negotiate a settlement with France and stop the attacks on American shipping. They were approached by three agents, "X," "Y," and "Z," who demanded 32 million florins and a $250,000 bribe just for talking to Talleyrand. Pinckney rejected the terms
The Articles of Confederation
July 1776: John Dickinson headed a committee that drafted this. Put into effect in April 1781. It had many weaknesses. It was basically a loose confederation of states. There was only one vote in Congress for each state. Laws were administered loosely by committees of Congress. Congress didn't have power over commerce or taxes. Federal Courts were limited. It was significant, however because it was the "glue" that kept the 13 colonies working together. Gave the Continental Congress a legal foot to stand on.
Hessians
King George III hired 1000's of these German troops to help crush his rebellious subjects. This was a shock to the colonists—really angered them. These hired soldiers were good soldiers but were "more interested in booty than in duty"
Lexington and Concord
King George III sent British soldiers here to capture minutemen and confiscate their weapons. About 70 minutemen gathered in their path. A shot was fired. Sparked the Revolutionary War.
Crispus Attucks
Leader of the mob during the Boston Massacre. One of the "innocent" victims that was killed. Considered the first death of the Revolutionary War.
Copperheads
Led by Clement L. Valladingham, they were a group of northern Democrats who strongly opposed abolition and sympathized with the South during the Civil War.
Radical Republicans
Led by Thaddeus Stevens, Ben Wade and Charles Sumner. A minority group that felt that the Confederate states should be treated like conquered provinces and deserved punishment for seceding. They wanted to drastically change the south and give the free slaves full citizenship before restoring the states. Also, they thought that Congress should be in charge of Reconstruction, not the president. Thinking the 10% plan was not sufficient, they passed the Wade-Davis Bill in
Nathaniel Bacon
Led the Virginian freemen in revolt in 1676. Resented Governor William Berkeley's policies, especially towards Indians. When Berkeley wouldn't retaliate against an Indian revolt, Bacon fell murderously upon the Indians and there was lots of chaos. Bacon died of disease and Berkeley crushed the uprising. Bacon led the most brutal rebellion in thus far in America, and ignited the unhappiness of landless former servants. Reinforced how dangerous a mass of freed indentured servants might prove.
Fort Duquesne
Lieutenant Colonel George Washington was sent with 150 men to an area near the forks of the Ohio River, where the French were building a fortified post. Washington hoped to prevent the French from completing the fort, and to develop the fort for the British. However, before Washington and his troops reached the Fort, they came into contact with a small contingent of French and Huron Indians in the woods. After a bloody battle, the French and Indians emerged as victors. They allowed Washington to retreat with what was left of his troops. This battle marked the beginning of the French and Indian War.
"Wildcat" banks
Loaned money to speculators. These banks were more interested in making a fast dollar than building a secure banking business. Excessive loan practices caused many more banknotes to be in circulation in the United States than there were deposits to cover them.
Fort Sumter
Located in the Charleston harbor. It needed supplies in order to support its men. Lincoln told the South that the North was sending provisions to the fort, not supplies for reinforcement. On April 12, 1861, SC fired cannons onto the fort; after 34 hours of non-lethal firing, the fort surrendered. Lincoln now had a reason for an armed response.
Slave codes
Made blacks and their children the property for life of their white masters. Some colonies made it illegal to teach a slave to read or write. Shows legal differences between the slaves and their masters—largely based on racial discrimination.
American System
Made by Henry Clay. It had 3 main parts: a strong banking system, protective tariffs, and a network of roads and canals
Bill of Rights
Many states had ratified the Constitution on the condition that this would be part of it, and many antifederalists had criticized the Constitution for not having one. Eventually, they were added as the first 10 amendments of the Constitution. Issues addressed include freedom of religion, press, speech, and assembly; the right to bear arms; the right to refuse to house soldiers on private property; the right to trial by jury; protection against unreasonable searches and seizures; and protection against cruel and unusual punishment. The rights it granted only applied to white, free man
McCulloch v. Maryland
Maryland attempted to place an annual tax on the Bank of the United States and other "foreign" banks. The Maryland branch of the Bank of the United States refused to pay. Maryland filed a suit against John W. McCulloch. Chief Justice Marshall declared the bank constitutional. Strengthened federal authority and power of Congress while striking a blow at states' rights. Loose Construction—Constitution derived from consent of the people and allowed the government to act for their good.
John Brown's Raid
Massacres led by a radical abolitionist. He believed that he was appointed by God to rid the nation of slavery. Gathered a group of volunteers and raided Pottawatomie Creek. Savagely murdered and mutilated five proslavery supporters. Moved from town to town, raising havoc in the name of God and antislavery supporters. In 1859, he and his gang advanced toward Harpers Ferry and cut the telegraph lines. The men overpowered the few night watchmen and took several townspeople hostage. The next morning, his men shot a railroad employee. Townspeople heard shots and sent for help. Before long, they were surrounded by local militiamen and a company of United States Marines. Charged with murder, conspiracy, and treason against the state of Virginia. His lawyer planned to enter an insanity plea, but he refused. He wanted to become a martyr. Southerners linked the violence to all Northerners and were outraged that some Northerners sympathized with him
Battle of Antietam
McClellan's men found a copy of Lee's plans and were able to stop the Confederates on one of the bloodiest days of the Civil War. No side won, but it was the Union display of power that Lincoln needed to announce his Emancipation Proclamation.
Tejanos
Mexican residents of Texas
The Monroe Doctrine
Monroe's statement proclaiming that the era of colonization in the Americas had ended. US wouldn't interfere with existing European colonies and would avoid involvement in European affairs
Greenbacks
Name for Union paper money not backed by gold or silver. Value would fluctuate depending on status of the war.
The Tarrif of Abominations
Name the Southerners gave to the Tariff of 1828. It wreaked havoc during Jackson's presidency. Southerners felt the financial strain of the tariffs due to their reliance on northern commodities. Felt they were being treated unfairly, and they rallied against the Tariff of 1828 and against Jackson
The Louisiana Purchase
Napoleon offered to sell New Orleans and the land west of it, Louisiana, for a bargain of $15 million. The purchase was finalized on April 30, 1803. It doubled the size of the United States, and was the biggest bargain in history (average 3 cents per acre). Greatly expanded the fortunes of the United States
Aztecs
Native civilization in Mexico. Capital: Tenotichlan. Practiced human sacrifice.One known chieftain: Montezuma. Eventually defeated by Hernan Cortes. One of the advanced ancient civilizations in the Americas.
Mayans
Native civilization situated in Central America. Significance: One of the advanced civilizations in the Americas
Incans
Native civilization situated in Peru. One of the advanced civilizations of the Americas
The Alien and Sedition Acts
Naturalization Acts said that you had to live in the US for 14 years for citizenship. Alien Enemies Act allowed the president to expel aliens in wartime. Alien Act authorized the president to deport or imprison all aliens whom he considered dangerous to the safety of the United States. Sedition Act prohibited antigovernment activity. Many colonists, angry at the Federalist abuse of authority, shifted their political support to the Democratic-Republican Party
Marquis Duquesne
New France's leader. Established new settlements in the North American interior and unsuccessfully tried to persuade the Iroquois to break their ties to Britain.
Appomattox Court House
On April 9th, 1865, Grant cornered Lee here to discuss the terms of surrender. The Civil War was finally over.
The Second Great Awakening
One of the most momentous episodes in the history of American religion. Encouraged evangelicalism. Spread on frontier through huge "camp meetings." Peter Cartwright and Charles Grandison Finney held moving sermons. Feminization of religion—women were the most fervent enthusiasts of religious revivalism. Result: converts, reorganized churches, and numerous new sects.
Robert E. Lee
One of the most talented officers. General of the Confederate Army. Sent McClellan's Union army in retreat after the Seven Day's Battle. Crushed McClellan's forces in Richmond. In the Second Battle of Bull Run he defeated General Pope's Union forces. He met McClellan's forces again at the Battle of Antietam, and after a bloody battle, the Confederate march Northward was stopped. Defeated by Meade's force at Gettysburg. On April 1865, he surrendered at the Appomatox Convention, ending the Civil War.
Whigs
Opposition party to the Democratic-Republicans. Adams' supporters. Supported a national bank, strong central government, tariffs, and government induced moral reform.
"Old Lights"
Orthodox clergymen. Skeptical of the emotionalism and the theatrical antics of the revivalists.
Specie
Paper money was not the currency—gold and silver coins were. The value of these coins was determined by the value of the metal in the coins themselves. The _____________ Circular was a decree that required all public lands to be purchased with "hard," or metallic, money.
Homestead Act
Passed in 1862, it gave 160 acres of public land to any settler who would farm the land for five years.
Morrill Land Grant Act
Passed in 1862, it offered states land to support agricultural colleges.
The Fifteenth Amendment
Passed in 1869, it gave Blacks their right to vote.
Jonathan Edwards
Pastor who ignited the Great Awakening. Ridiculed believing in salvation through good works. Affirmed the need for complete dependence on God. Described the torments of hell in detail. "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God."
Indentured servants
People who bound their labor for 4-7 years in exchange for a passage to the new world. During service, they received food, shelter, and clothing. When their terms ended, they were issued freedom dues. Sometimes they were unable to find land and just had to go back into servant-hood.
Forty-niners
People who came to California by the thousands in search of gold.
Puritans
People who were angry with the Anglican church, saying it was too corrupt and similar to the Church of Rome. They wanted to "purify" it from the inside. When William Laud was allotted more control over religious affairs and issued many anti-Puritan decrees, they fled to North America to form the Plymouth colony.
Macon's Bill No. 2
Permitted American trade with all the world. Promised American restoration of trade to France and/or England if either dropped their commercial restrictions
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Poet and philosopher. Stressed self-reliance, self-improvement, self-confidence, optimism, and freedom. Ideas reflected those of an expanding America. Outspoken critic of slavery. Supported the Union in the Civil War
Henry David Thoreau
Poet, mystic, transcendentalist, and nonconformist. Condemned government that supported slavery. Gifted prose writer—Walden: Or Life in the Woods describes living a full emotional and intellectual life for two years while residing in a tiny cabin he made himself and existing in every other way at a barely subsistence level. He believed he should reduce his bodily wants so as to gain time for a pursuit if truth through study and meditation. He refused to pay a tax that he felt would support the Mexican War and was temporarily jailed. Wrote the essay On the Duty of Civil Disobedience.
Utopian Movements
Reformers in the aftermath of the Second Great Awakening sought to get away from authoritarian power structures. Brook Farm, New Harmony, the Shaker and Amana communities, and Oneida Colony are examples
Transcendentalism
Rejected that all knowledge comes to the mind through senses. Believe that truth cannot be found through observation alone. Every person possesses an inner light that can illuminate the truth and put him/her in direct contact with God, aka "Oversoul"
Deism
Relied on reason rather than revelation, on science rather than the Bible. Believed in a Supreme Being who had created a knowable universe and endowed human beings with a capacity for moral behavior.
The Great Awakening
Religious revival that emerged in Northampton Massachusetts and exploded between 1730s and 1740s. Emphasis on direct, emotive spirituality undermined the older clergy. Caused schisms in denominations that increased the numbers and the competitiveness of American churches. Encouraged missionary work among Indians and black slaves. Led to founding of "new light" centers (Princeton, Brown, Rutgers, and Dartmouth). First spontaneous mass movement of the American people.
Non-Intercourse Act
Reopened trade with all the nations of the world, except France and England
The "Wilmot Proviso"
Representative David Wilmot introduced an amendment that said that slavery should never exist in any of the territory that the US got from Mexico. Amendment passed the House twice but not the Senate. Eventually endorsed by all but one of the free states. Symbolizes the burning issue of slavery in the territories
The Force Bill
Response to South Carolina's resistance to tariffs. Jackson felt that a new and specific bill would strengthen his case against South Carolina. Gave the president the power to use the army to enforce a tariff. South Carolina hated it— called it the "Bloody Bill." Eventually Congress repealed it.
Coercive (Intolerable) Acts
Result of the Boston Tea Party. Designed to punish the colonists and tighten British control over the colonies. Closed down the Boston Harbor until the Massachusetts colonists paid for the ruined tea. Forced Bostonians to shelter soldiers in their own homes.
The Romantic Movement
Retaliation against the classicism and rational thinking of the Enlightenment. People felt a need to balance reason and calculation with emotion and spirit. Emphasized feelings, intuition, individual acts of heroism, and the study of nature, rather than pure thought
"New Lights"
Revivalist ministers. Defended the Awakening for its role in revitalizing American religion.
The California gold rush
Rumor spread that there was gold in California. Estimated 100,000 "Forty-niners" flocked to the gold fields the following year alone. Seemingly overnight, San Francisco grew from fewer than 1,000 residents to a major port city of 20,000.
Tenure of Office Act, 1867
Said the president had to secure the consent of the Senate before removing his cabinet members once they had been approved by the Senate. It's purpose was to keep Edwin M. Stanton in the cabinet.
Edwin M. Stanton
Secretary of War appointed by Lincoln. President Andrew Johnson dismissed him in spite of the Tenure of Office Act, and as a result, Congress wanted Johnson's impeachment.
"The South Carolina Exposition"
Secretly written by Vice President John C Calhoun, a South Carolinian. Offered persuasive arguments for nullifying the Tariff of 1828, stating that it was unjust and unconstitutional.
Brigham Young
Seized Mormon movement after Joseph Smith. Aggressive leader, eloquent preacher, and gifted administrator. Led the oppressed Latter-Day Saints to Utah. Under his leadership, the community became a prosperous frontier theocracy.
Blanche K. Bruce
Senator of Mississippi from 1875 to 1881 and was one of the first African Americans to serve a full term in the Senate.
Zebulon Pike
Sent by Jefferson to gather information about the territory west of the Mississippi River. Explored the upper Mississippi River, the Arkansas River and parts of present day Colorado and New Mexico. His explorations offered Americans valuable information regarding the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains.
Supreme Court Justice John Marshall
Served at Valley Forge during the War. Became a lifelong Federalist, committed to strengthening the power of the federal government. Many famous cases: Fletcher v. Peck (1810), McCulloch v. Maryland (1819), Dartmouth College v. Woodward (1819), and Gibbons v. Ogden (1824). Shaped the American legal tradition more profoundly than any other single figure
Compromise of 1877
Settled the 1876 presidential election contest between Rutherford Hayes and Samuel Tilden. Hayes was awarded the presidency in exchange for the permanent removal of federal troops from the South. As a result, the Reconstruction was over and the Republicans gave up on the fight for racial equality.
The Panic of 1837
Several states defaulted on their bonds or repudiated them openly. Englishmen who lost money assailed their rash American borrowers
Lucretia Mott
She and Elizabeth Cady Stanton were two female delegates to the World Anti-Slavery Convention held at London in 1840. Denied full participation because of their gender, and they returned to America determined to campaign for equal rights. They organized the first women's rights convention held at Seneca Falls, New York, in July 1848.
Elizabeth Cady Stanton
She and Lucretia Mott were two female delegates to the World Anti-Slavery Convention held at London in 1840. Denied full participation because of their gender, and they returned to America determined to campaign for equal rights. They organized the first women's rights convention held at Seneca Falls, New York, in July 1848. Adopted a "Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions." Patterned on the Declaration of Independence. "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men and women are created equal."
Treaty of Ghent
Signed December 1814. Called for both the British and Americans to quit fighting and return conquered territory. Did not acknowledge the complaints that prompted the United States to declare war on Britain. Search and seizures, Orders in Council, and the impressment of American sailors were ignored. After the treaty was signed, ships were free to sail to any port, goods could be traded with any customer, and Royal Navy warships no longer patrolled the American coastline.
Carpetbaggers
Sleazy northerners who came to the south seeking get-rich-quick business opportunities. They wanted power and profit.
The Black Codes
Southern states passed these to control the freed slaves. They were oppressive laws aimed at keeping the Black population in submission and to regulate their affairs. Blacks were forbidden to serve on a jury, vote, or rent or lease land. The harshness of the laws varied from state to state. They had to sign annual labor contracts and were severely punished if they were violated. The conditions of the blacks made many abolitionists wonder if the price of the Civil War was really worth it.
Scalawags
Southerners who were accused of plundering Southern treasuries through their political influence in the radical governments and selling out the Southerners. They were ridiculed for not wanting to secede and allying with the blacks.
Pinckney's Treaty
Spanish granted almost all the United States' requests, including ownership of the previously disputed territory north of Florida. Gave American western farmers and traders the right of deposit at New Orleans
Eli Whitney
Sparked the Industrial Revolution. Invented the cotton gin, a machine used for removing the seeds from the cotton fiber. He hoped to make the lives of slaves easier through this invention. He also invented interchangeable parts, parts that looked exactly alike and were easily assembled or exchanged. Eventually became the basis of modern assembly-line production methods.
Cumberland Road / National Road
Stretched 591 miles from Maryland to Illinois. The first highway built by the federal government, and was an important connection between the North and the West, thus increasing trade. It was a milestone for the eventual connection of all the states by highways.
The Virginia Plan
Suggested by Edmund Randolph and James Madison. Called for a 2-house legislature that would select the president and the court officials for the judicial system. Population determines representation, and therefore, the big states would have the advantage.
The New Jersey Plan
Suggested by William Patterson. Called for a one house Congress that had the power to tax and control trade. Each state has one vote. The Executive and Judicial branches were separate from Congress and not as powerful.
Battle of Tippecanoe
Tecumseh and the Prophet lead a surprise attack but are defeated by William Henry Harrison; makes many Americans suspicious of British aid, since Tecumseh drove into an alliance with them, and also stirred up talk of Canadian invasion. Harrison became a national hero.
Tenskwatawa, "The Prophet"
Tecumseh's brother. Told Indians to be scared of white culture; said Native Americans must give up white ways, and no longer trade with them.
Samuel J. Tilden
The democratic presidential candidate in the election of 1876
John Winthrop
The first governor of Massachusetts Bay Colony. He was instrumental in forming the colony's government and shaping its legislative policy. He envisioned the colony, centered in present-day Boston, as a "city upon a hill" from which Puritans would spread religious righteousness throughout the world.
The Confiscation Acts
The first of the two acts allowed the Union to seize Confederate property. It also granted freedom to any slave serving in the Confederate Military. The second act punished "traitors" by declaring their slaves property of war who shall be free.
House of Burgesses
The first official legislative assembly in the Colonies. It was a representative self-government in Virginia
Davy Crockett
The most bitterly outspoken opponent of the Indian Removal Bill. He was a Jacksonian Democrat until he and the president parted ways over treatment of the Indians. Disgusted with partisanship, Crockett left the arena of national politics and went to Texas. Died at the Alamo.
The black belt
The name given to the region in the Deep South, an area stretching from South Carolina and Georgia to Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana for its abundance in slaves.
The Three-Fifths Compromise
There was a constant debate occurring about whether or not a slave should be counted as a person in population counts. This compromise said that a slave counted as 3/5 of a person. It also said that Congress wouldn't restrict slave trade for 20 years.
Antifederalists
This group consisted mainly working class citizens. They were loyal to state governments. Examples are Patrick Henry and Samuel Adams. They had a strict interpretation of the Constitution
Federalists
This group consisted of mainly wealthy and well educated. Basically the aristocracy. Examples are Alexander Hamilton, George Washington, and Benjamin Franklin. They Wanted a strong central government. Had a loose interpretation of Constitution (loose constructionists)
Jamestown
This was the first permanent English settlement and was founded in 1607. Instead of farming, people were searching for nonexistent gold and were starving and dying, until John Smith took leadership
Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions
Thomas Jefferson & James Madison. Asserted that each state enter into a or contract, with the national government and delegate power to the centralized entity for the common good of all states. If a state decided that the national government overstepped its constitutional authority, it could intervene to protect its citizens from tyrannical law
Statute of Religious Freedom
Thomas Jefferson. Basically said government shouldn't control religious institutions
Jay Gould and Jim Fisk
Two millionare businessmen who came up with the scheme to corner the gold market during the Ulysses S. Grant's presidency.
Francis Scott Key
United States lawyer and poet who wrote a poem after witnessing the British attack on Baltimore during the War of 1812. The poem later became the Star Spangled Banner.
Northwest Ordinance of 1787
Until the adult male population reached 5,000, the territories would be subject to a governor and three judges chosen by Congress. Territory would be divided into no less than three and no more than five states. When a territory had 5,000 voting age males they could elect a legislature and send a nonvoting delegate to Congress. Once any territory's population reached 60,000 settlers it would be granted statehood. Excluded slavery permanently from the Northwest.
Hamilton's Financial Plan
Urged government to assume its debts ($54 million) and try to pay them off at face value, PLUS interest, as well as assume the debts of the states ($21.5 million). Wanted to create a national bank. Added custom duties and taxes on certain goods (ex. whiskey)
The Ostend Manifesto
Urged that the administration offer $120 million for Cuba. If Spain refused, US would be justified in fighting for it. It was leaked to the New York Herald, and it created a furor in the north. Drove a wedge between the North and the South and undermined the effectiveness of the Compromise of 1850 as the final solution to the sectional controversy
The "Era of Good Feelings"
Ushered in with Monroe's election. The country enjoyed peace & progress during his first yrs of presidency. There was a sense of nationalism. The name is a misnomer, however. Tariff and bank issues. Sectionalism crystallizing. The slavery was conflict taking its toll
The War of 1812
War between Britain and America caused by American outrage over the impressment of American sailors by the British, the British seizure of American ships, and British aid to the Indians attacking the Americans on the western frontier. An attempt to invade Canada failed when a large number of British troops, and a group led by Indian chief Tecumseh, overwhelmed American forces that were spread too thin. In 1813, Captain Oliver Hazard Perry defeated British forces that controlled Lake Erie. The battle was a turning point for the Americans because Chief Tecumseh died, which caused the Indians to bail out on the war and Britain had to think of another strategy. Britain burned the White House and the Capital building. The Battle of New Orleans in 1814 was an overwhelming success for the Americans. In the end, the war was basically a draw. The war strengthened American nationalism and encouraged the growth of industry.
Valley Forge
Washington & his troops spent the winter in this place in Pennsylvania. Awful conditions: freezing cold, no food, morale decreasing, troops dying. Prussian drill-master Baron von Steuben whipped the troops into shape
Balboa
Went to Panama in 1513 and claimed all the lands washed by that sea for his king. Discoverer of the Pacific Ocean
"The Burned-Over District"
Western NY was so blistered be sermonizers preaching hellfire and damnation that it earned this name
The Aaron Burr Conspiracy
When Jefferson removed him as Vice President, he planned with Federalists to make New England and New York secede from the union. Hamilton foiled his plans, and then _____ killed him in a duel. He formed a partnership with the governor of the Louisiana Territory, General James Wilkinson. Wilkinson changed his mind and sent Jefferson a letter warning him of Burr's scheme. In 1806, he was arrested for treason, but the two witnesses were nowhere to be found. He was acquitted and he fled to Europe where he tried to persuade Napoleon to make peace with Britain and attack the U.S.
The Boston Tea Party
When the British East India Company was going bankrupt, Parliament gave it a complete monopoly on the American tea business and sell directly to the American merchants. The Americans didn't like this and would force the ships to turn back. The Royal Governor of Massachusetts, Tom Hutchinson, docked 3 ships at Boston Harbor and told them to stay until all the cargo was unloaded. Members of the Sons of Liberty disguised as Indians boarded the ships on 12.16.1773 and smashed open 342 chests of tea and dumped it into the harbor. Some colonists like John Adams were thrilled. Others like Ben Franklin were appalled. Parliament wanted to punish the colonists' behavior and show them who was boss
Abigail Adams
Wife of John Adams. Promoted women's rights. "Remember the Ladies"
Marbury v. Madison
William Marbury had been one of the "midnight judges" appointed by John Adams. When Secretary of State James Madison decided to shelve the position, he sued for its delivery. Marshall dismissed the case, but he said that the Judiciary Act of 1789 was unconstitutional. This suggested that the Supreme Court could determine the constitutionality of laws (judicial review)
Conquistadors
· Spanish for "conquerors"· A small minority were nobles, ½ were professional soldiers and sailors and the rest were peasants, artisans, and members of middling classes. Most in twenties or early 30's · 3 goals: service of God, search of gold, and glory· Between 1519 and 1540, they swept across the Americas in two waves of conquest Significance: Extinguished the great Aztec and Incan empires and claimed the territory from Colorado to Argentina. New race of mestizos formed when they married Indian women, and this formed a cultural and biological bridge between European and Indian races. European economy transformed because of the influx of gold and silver.
The Fourteenth Amendment
1. All Blacks had civil rights and were American citizens. 2. If a state denied Blacks' citizenship, then it's representatives in the Electoral College were reduced. 3. Former Confederates could not hold federal or state office. 4. The federal debt was guaranteed while the Union assumed all Confederate debts. All Republicans agreed that states HAD to ratify this in order to
Half-Way Covenant
1662. Caused by the decline in conversions to Puritanism. Modified the "covenant" or agreement between the church and its adherents to admit baptism but not "full communion." Allowed children of the converted to have church membership even if they had not been baptized. Weakened distinction between "elect" and others, diluting the spiritual purity of the original community, but also led to greater church participation and a change in church membership.
The Indian Removal Act
1830: Provided for the resettlement of all Native Americans then residing east of the Mississippi to what is now Oklahoma. There the Indians were to be free to pursue their lives without interference. Removal intended to be voluntary, but groups of Indians were harshly pressured to go. Countless died.
Lincoln's "10 percent plan"
1863. Said that the southern states could be reintegrated into the Union when 10% of its voters pledge an oath to the Union and acknowledge the emancipation of the slaves.
The Resumption Act
1875. Called for the gradual redemption of greenbacks for gold starting in 1879, making the value of paper money equal to the value of gold.
Jacque Cartier
A French explorer. Sailed as far as Montreal in 1535. Led the first European expedition into the Gulf of St. Lawrence
Susan B. Anthony
A Quaker who had been active in the temperance movement. Assumed the leadership role in the drive for women's legal equality and the right to vote.
Sacajawea
A Shoshoni woman who served as a guide and translator to Lewis and Clark. She showed them how to forage for food and helped them maintain good relations with tribes in the Northwest.
Ex Parte Merryman
A Supreme Court case that Chief Justice Taney's ruled that the suspension of habeas corpus was unconstitutional without an act of Congress. Lincoln openly defied the ruling by suspending it for the arrest of anti-Unionists during the Civil War. Lincoln justified his overstepping the boundaries of the constitution by saying he was doing so to preserve the Union.
Antinomianism
A belief that was brought out by Anne Hutchinson. It claimed that a holy life was no sure sign of salvation and that the truly saved need not bother to obey the law of either God or man. High heresy in the eyes of the Puritans.
Mayflower Compact
A document written by the Pilgrims establishing themselves as a political society and setting guidelines for self-government. They signed it before disembarking, and it set the standard for later constitutions
Sojourner Truth
A former slave. A leading advocate of the abolition of slavery and for the rights of women
Land Ordinance of 1785
A law that divided much of the United States into a system of townships to facilitate the sale of land to settlers. Outlined a plan for surveying western territories. Each township was subdivided into 36 lots or sections that were exactly one mile square, or 640 acres, in size. The one mile square lots were then sold at auction for no less than $1 per acre, or $640 per lot.
Charles Sumner
A leader of the Radical Republicans in the Senate. Senator of Massachusetts. He was strongly opposed to slavery.
Nat Turner's rebellion
A literate slave led an uprising and slaughtered about 60 Virginians. He eluded his pursuers for two months before being captured, tried, and executed. Result: southern states strictly enforced laws prohibiting the education of slaves, and increased surveillance of free African-Americans.
The Enlightenment
A.k.a. "Age of Reason." Method of thinking based on the presumption that the natural world is understood best through the use of close observation of the human senses coupled with a reliance on reason. Had a huge effect on religion. Some used it to support the benevolence of God, saying that God works through natural causes. Others denounced the traditional documents about the nature of God, and disputed the divinity of Christ and the process of salvation.
Thirteenth Amendment
Abolished slavery once and for all.
The "Corrupt Bargain"
After Adams was elected President, he chose Clay as his Secretary of State. Caused an uproar among Jackson's supporters, who believed that Clay and Adams had conspired to get Adams into office
John Locke
An English philosopher who in his Essay on Human Understanding in 1690 formulated the 'tabula rasa' theory, stating that the mind is a blank slate formed and shaped by the environment. Highly influenced the Enlightenment in America.
Marco Polo
An Italian adventurer. Returned to Europe in 1295. His tales about the East, particularly China, enticed Europeans to explore.
The Townshend Duties
An indirect import tax on glass, white lead, paper, paint, tea, and silk established by Charles Townshend. Colonists began boycotting. British authorities sent soldiers to set the colonists straight, which eventually led to the Boston Massacre.
Oregon Trail
An over 2000-mile trail across America, was a common route to Oregon during the early 1840s
The Proclamation of 1763
A proclamation from the British government. Called for a halt to westward expansion beyond the Appalachians. The British hoped to keep the colonists tied more closely to English colonial authorities by confining them to the coast. Also, the Seven Years' War had put England in dire financial straits, and keeping colonists east of the Appalachians would facilitate the collection of taxes. The Proclamation incensed the colonists, who felt they had earned the right to expansion by risking their lives in the new country. They openly defied British rule and rushed westward, creating new settlements, facing new challenges, and becoming more self-reliant.
The Wade-Davis Bill
Radical republicans passed this because they thought the 10% plan wasn't strong enough. It required 50% of the states' voters to take oaths of allegiance and also required the state constitutional conventions abolish slavery. Lincoln vetoed it by letting it expire.
Battle of Gettysburg
The bloodiest battle of the Civil War. General George Meade led the Union Army. Union eventually won. However, both sides suffered heavy losses: 23,000 Union soldiers and 28,000 Confederate. North was inevitably going to win the war now.
Election of 1800
The candidates were Republicans Jefferson and Aaron Burr and Federalists Adams and Charles C. Pinckney. Jefferson and Burr both received 73 votes. Eventually Thomas Jefferson won
Thaddeus Stevens
A radical Republican who believed in harsh punishments for the South. Leader of the radical Republicans in Congress.
Roger Williams
A radical separatist who believed in freedom of religion. He used the Church in Salem to voice his opinions: respect the land rights of Native Americans, religious groups shouldn't be supported by taxes, magistrates should have no voice in spiritual matters, and complete separation of church and state. He was banished from Massachusetts in 1636, after which he founded the colony of Rhode Island, named it Providence, and established a government based on the consent of the people, with religious toleration and separation of church and state.
The French and Indian War
America's share of the Seven Years' War. Fought by French and English on American soil over control of the Ohio River Valley. The English defeated French in1763. Established England as number one world power and colonists' attitudes toward England gradually changed for the worse.
Hiram Revels
American clergyman, educator, and politician, he became one of the first African Americans in the U.S. Senate. Represented Mississippi.
Samuel Slater
"Father of the Factory System." Left Britain in disguise and arrived in America with the plans in his head for a textile machine that would spin cotton. In 1791, he created the first efficient American machinery for spinning cotton thread
The Bank of the United States
"Moneyed monster" according to Jackson. Minted gold and silver coins. Most powerful bank in America. Its notes, unlike other banks' were stable in value. Privately owned institution. Bank eventually fell into practices of overextending credit.
Panic of 1819
A paralyzing economic panic. Brought deflation, depression, bankruptcies, bank failures, unemployment, soup kitchens, and overcrowded debtors' prisons. There were many causes—most important being overspeculation in frontier lands. The Second Bank of United States was to blame. Brought a resurgence of sectionalism
Empresario
A person who arranged for the settlement of land in Texas during the 1800s, they had cheap land as long as they obeyed mexican law and followed catholic religion
The National-Republicans
Adams' supporters. The oak was their symbol. Eventually became the Whig party.
The Olive Branch Petition
Adopted in July 1775 by the Continental Congress. Professed American loyalty to the crown and begged King to prevent further hostilities. Said that the colonists just wanted to be treated more fairly by king. George III ignored it and declared war on the colonies
William Henry Harrison
Advanced upon Tecumseh's headquarters at Tippecanoe and burned it to the ground. Battle of Tippecanoe made him a national hero
The Emancipation Proclamation
After the battle of Antietem, President Lincoln announced that slaves in the South would be free. It didnt immediately free the slaves, but had other effects. The abolition of slavery became a goal of the war. European nations were thinking about joining the war on the Confederate side, but after this was issued, the Working Classes of the European nations began to sympathize with the North, and the governments decided not to intervene.
The Philadelphia Convention
Aka Constitutional Convention. 55 delegates from 12 states met to revise the Articles of Confederation in May 1787. Decided to completely do away with the Articles of Confederation
The Constitutional Convention
Aka Philidelphia Convention. In 1787, Congress called a convention to revise the Articles of Confederation into a more powerful document. Each state appointed delegates to attend a meeting in Philadelphia to develop a more effective and unified constitution. In total, 55 delegates from 12 states were present. Made the decision to throw out the Articles of Confederation and start fresh developing a framework for strengthening the power of the United States' federal government. Thus began the drafting of the Constitution.
Encomienda
Allowed government to give Indians to certain colonists in return for the promise to try to Christianize them. Basically it was slavery. It was the most important technique used to subdue the Indian civilizations.
Enforcement Acts (1870-1871)
Allowed the Federal government to intervene when state authorities failed to protect citizens.
The Enlightenment
Also known as the "age of reason," this philosophical movement had a method of thinking based on the presumption that the natural world is understood best through the use of close observation of the human senses coupled with a reliance on reason. It had a huge effect on religion: Some used it to support the benevolence of God, saying that God works through natural causes, while others began denouncing the traditional documents about the nature of God, disputing the divinity of Christ and the process of salvation
John Wilkes Booth
Assassinated President Abraham Lincoln
Gibbons v. Ogden
Attempt by New York to grant a monopoly to Aaron Ogden to operate a ferry between New York and New Jersey. Ogden sued Thomas Gibbons for setting up his trade there too. Marshall's decision favored Gibbons. He said that the Constitution says that only Congress has control over interstate commerce. Kept the power of the states in check and strengthened the power of the federal government
Dred Scott Decision
Dred Scott, a Missouri slave who frequently traveled with his owner through Illinois and the Wisconsin Territory. In 1846, Scott sued his owner's widow for his freedom. Claimed that his residence in free state Illinois, and in the Wisconsin Territory, where the Missouri Compromise outlawed slavery, made him a free man. The Supreme Court—with 5/9 members from slave states—ruled that black people were not citizens of the United States. Chief Justice Taney argued that the Missouri Compromise was unconstitutional because it deprived citizens of their property—slaves in this case. Taney's ruling declared that since slave owners could take their "property" anywhere, Congress could not ban slavery from the territories. Angered blacks, abolitionists, and popular sovereignty supporters who had fought to end—or at least limit—the expansion of slavery. Republicans responded by declaring that the Court's ruling was an opinion and was not enforceable. Southerners were outraged at the Northerners' blatant defiance of the Supreme Court's verdict and promptly revisited their secession discussions.
The temperance movement
Drinking problem was getting out of hand. American Temperance Society formed in Boston in 1826. Within a few years, thousands of similar groups formed. Implored drinkers to sign the temperance pledge. Made effective use of pictures, pamphlets, and lecturers. T.S. Arthur wrote Ten Nights in a Barroom and What I Saw There. Some wanted temptation to be removed by legislation. Example, Neal S. Dow—"Father of Prohibition." Sponsored the Maine Law of 1851—prohibited manufacture and sale of intoxicating liquor. By 1857 about a dozen states passed prohibitory laws, but they were repealed within a decade. End result: much less drinking among women than earlier in the century and less consumption of hard liquor.
Shays's Rebellion
Due to economic difficulties, Massachusetts increased their taxes. These fell most heavily on farmers and the poor. Many farmers were losing their farms through mortgage foreclosures and tax delinquencies. An armed mob began to stop foreclosures by forcibly preventing the courts from holding their sessions. Under the leadership of Daniel Shays nearly 1,200 angry farmers marched to the federal arsenal at Springfield, Massachusetts. They wanted a more flexible money policy, suspension of property confiscations, and the right to postpone paying taxes until the depression lifted. The Massachusetts authorities summoned troops and ended the uprising. Daniel Shays was condemned to death, but was later pardoned. When the next legislature came into session, the majority sympathized with the rebels and met some of their demands for debt relief. Led to discussions about the need for a stronger central government.
War Hawks
Eager for war with Britain. Interested in expansion westward and into Canada, were angry at British leaders for closing trade channels with America and considered Britain's treatment of American sailors illegal. They believed retaliation was necessary to gain respect from European leaders. They were the primary force behind Madison's decision to call for war with Britain.
Huguenots
French Protestants.
Sherman's March
General Sherman lead a force from Chattanooga, Tennessee to South Carolina destroying all of souths towns, crops, wells, and everything else the Confederates could use to survive. He captured and burned city after city to the ground. The South's economy was devistated.
Samuel de Champlain
In 1608 he founded Quebec. This region came to be known as New France. Established a fur trading business. He established a lucrative economic network with the Native Americans. Eventually it developed into a military alliance against England.
Speculation
Gambling on what will happen in the future. Speculators would buy large tracts of land on borrowed capital, expecting the price to go up as settlers entered the region.
Civil Rights Act of 1875
Gave blacks the privilege of American citizenship and denied states' the right to restrict blacks of their property, testify in court, and make contracts for their labor. Johnson vetoed this, but Congress voted to override the veto.
Jay's Treaty
Gave the British 18 months to withdraw from the western forts, although they were given the right to continue fur trade with the Indians. Called for America to repay debts incurred to England during the Revolutionary War
Dorothea Dix
Gave up her job as a teacher to help the mentally impaired. Traveled 60,000 miles in 8 years. Reported to the legislature that the insane were treated as violent criminals. Persuaded 20 state legislatures and the federal government to establish mental health asylums. Her endeavors resulted in improved conditions & a gain in the concept that the demented were not willfully perverse but mentally ill. Clearly influenced governmental policy during the Age of Reform.
Immanuel Kant
German philosopher. Addressed his doubts over rationality as a solution for all human problems in his Critique of Pure Reason, in 1781.
Hernan Cortes
In 1519 he set sail from Cuba w/ 600 horses and several hundred men on 11 ships. Sailing to Mexico. Rescued a Spanish prisoner and picked up Malinche—used them as interpretersHad a huge lust for gold from the capital, Tenochtitlan. Aztec chieftain Montezuma presented gifts to them, which just excited them more. Montezuma thought _______________ was a god.The Spanish were treated with hospitality until their desire for wealth was too much for the Aztecs. The Aztecs attacked on June 30. This day was known as Noche Triste. _____________ countered, and on 8/13/1521, the Aztecs surrendered. Significance: A smallpox epidemic broke out. 3 centuries of Spanish rule followed, where the Aztec temples were destroyed and replaced by Christian Cathedrals. The native population shrank from 20 million to 2 million. Cortes brought his language, laws, customs, and religion to the people of Mexico. A population of Mestizos emerged.
James Russell Lowell
One of America's best poets. Remembered as a political satirist in his Biglow Papers, where he condemned the alleged slavery-expansion designs of the Polk administration
Nicholas Biddle
President of Bank of United States. Held an immense amount of power over the nation's financial affairs. Was able to force smaller banks to refrain from excessive printing of banknotes, which was a major contributor to inflation. When Jackson told the Secretary of State to remove all federal funds from the bank, _________ freaked out and called in many of the Bank's loans, especially those to other banks. Placed a hardship on smaller banks and businesses, and caused a minor financial downturn.
The Missouri Compromise
Proposed by Henry Clay. Agreed to admit Missouri into the Union as a slave state. Maine spilt from Massachusetts and accepted as a free state. Prohibited slavery in all other parts of the Louisiana Purchase north of the southern boundary of Missouri (36 30 line)
Clay's Compromise
Proposed by Henry Clay. Tariffs would be reduced by 10% over an 8-year period. Lessened tension between Andrew Jackson and South Carolina.
Kansas-Nebraska Act
Proposed by Stephen Douglas. Split the territory into two sections, slave state Kansas and free state Nebraska. Residents of each territory decide whether their state would permit slavery. Repeal of the Missouri Compromise that prohibited slavery north of the 36° 30' line because both Nebraska and Kansas were located north of the line. Northerners were enfuriated. Outraged protesters declared the compromise repeal "a gross violation of a sacred pledge." The decision to reopen the slavery issue to allow more slave states re-ignited decades-old conflict between Northerners and Southerners and set the foundation for the coming Civil War
Calvinism
Protestant sect founded by John Calvin. Emphasized a strong moral code and believed in predestination.
Milan Decree
The British, acting under the "Orders in Council," punished Americans who traded directly with France, and the French punished Americans who traded with Britain with this. It said that any vessel that submitted to Britain's Orders In Council or allowed itself to be searched by the Royal Navy was subject to seizure by France.
The Federalist Papers
Written by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay and they argued that limitations on governmental power were built into the Constitution with a series of checks and balances. Explained the need for centralized government so the United States could earn the respect of other countries. Because of this, Federalists were able to break down resistance and gain enough support to ratify the Constitution. They were the most influential political writings of the time
Uncle Tom's Cabin
Written by Harriet Beecher Stowe. Most significant response to the Fugitive Slave Act. Sold 10,000 copies its first week in print, and 300,000 within a year. By the time of the Civil War, several million copies were in circulation. Released feelings of guilt and revulsion toward slavery among Northerners who previously had not given much thought to the sectional controversy. Stowe was denounced in the south but her novel was a propaganda victory for the antislavery cause
Declaration of the Causes and Necessity of Taking Arms
Written by John Dickinson and Thomas Jefferson. Said the colonies were justified in fighting for their rights. "Our cause is just. Our union is perfect"
Two Treatises of Government
Written by John Locke. Lashed out at the view that monarchs had a divine right to rule over others. Said government should be established among free people as social contracts. Civil rulers should be given authority from among the people they were governing. If government failed to give natural rights (life, liberty, property) then rebellion is justified. Had a huge influence on the American Revolution
The Compromise of 1850
Written by Stephen A. Douglas, a young Democratic senator from Illinois. California was admitted as a free state, Utah and New Mexico were created as territories, Texas was compensated with $10 million for reducing its borders, slave trade abolished in the District of Columbia, and a more stringent fugitive slave law enacted.
The Declaration of Independence
Written by Thomas Jefferson. An act of the Second Continental Congress, adopted on July 4, 1776, which declared that the Thirteen Colonies in North America were "Free and Independent States" and that "all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved."
Thomas Paine
Wrote Common Sense. Argued that the cause or problems between Britain and America was King George III. Authority of all government officials should originate from the popular consent of the people they governed. Concept of an island ruling a continent goes against natural law. Called for colonists to establish an American republic where free citizens were in control, NOT a monarch. Paine said America had an obligation to the world to become an independent, democratic society. Influenced people to turn their backs on the status quo and embrace new ideas of a free society
Harriet Beecher Stowe
Wrote Uncle Tom's Cabin, an antislavery propaganda novel that had a huge influence on people in the North. People who weren't too concerned about the slavery issue before began to abhor slavery.