APUSH Essay Questions and Answers
Which do you think was the main cause of Bacons rebellion justify your choice
Nathaniel bacon and Virginians had a grudge against Governor Berkley for appeasing with the Indians were dead tech the western settlements does the governors Indian policies became the main cause of Maykus your billion
-
-
What does the phrase point of no return mean to you and identified that point and click on your British relations between 1760 in 1776 and explain why you pick that event or date
After the victory of the British in seven years war the British wanted to text Americans to pay for their huge debt. The colonialist refrigerated and confused about this decision because it was not in the Americans pocket to pay for such amount of money
-
Andrew Jackson is often called "the first modern president" because of how Jackson was able to set new precedents for upcoming presidents being able to be in control of the nation during presidency. Jackson was able to have four controversial events in his term with the establishment of Spoils, Tariffs, Indian Removals, and removal of the BUS. In addition, Jackson was also not like any other presidents. He wanted deep control of his military thus expanding it in size and used military to to forcingly make decisions.
Always—in 1787, 1820, 1833, and 1850—the North and South had been able to compromise over their differences. Why not by 1861?
Back in the day, the South did not really care for passing and starting compromises due to how they were expecting to get stuff in return. However, as time went by, the North had now started to want more and more. As time continued, the South had then realized that the North were taking advantage off of the South which would then result into them now wanting to secede from the North. The South and the North all before had made themselves to compromise over their differences. These compromises that allowed them to get over their differences were the Great Compromise, the MO Compromise, The Tariff Compromise, and the Compromise of 1850. The Great Compromise allowed for big and small states to allow equal representation. The MO Compromise that created the 36'30 line of any new territories above it being free and anything below being a slave state. The Tariff Compromise allowed for Calhoun and Clay to fix the nullification crisis. Lastly, the Compromise of 1850 allowed for pro-slavery and anti-slavery to gain new powers and methods. However, a Compromise could not be matched in 1861 due to how both states no longer wanting to settle for a compromise. The South had now felt like they were getting advantage of, so now they decided to secede from the Union and the North.
What role did each of the following play in the congressional assumption of control over Reconstruction policy: Black Codes, Southern election of former Confederates, President Johnson's personality and actions?
Black Codes: A way to bring slavery back, used as a loophole The states would now then require free blacks to sign labor contracts The risk of being arrested and/or fined Being pushed to work without pay Arrested as "vagrants" Southern Election of former Confederates: Congress did not want Confederate leaders In addition, did not want ex Confederate leaders They feared that Confederates were corrupting and would lead to the end of the US President Johnson's Personality and Actions: Defined as racist and was a white supremacist Only focused on trying to help the whites Was pro-slavery Went against Congress most of the time
Historian Charles beard describe the constitution as the reactionary phase of the revolutionary era and what did he mean by this and what could have led him to this conclusion
By reactionary pace Charles beard meant that the constitution was direction towards the British rule and it was the American political response to the British Parliament
Why did colonial masters first adopted institution of indentured servituderather than Indian or black slavery to meet their demands for labor and why then did black slavery replace indentured servitude
Colonial masters adopted indentured servant you'd rather dent in the end or black because indentured servant's met the requirements of labor demanded by their masters and they were less we could do an Indian cents less expensive than blacks
It is sometimes said that Europeans who came to the Americas settled a virgin land that was in use in unspoiled write an essay demonstrating that this is or is not an accurate description of what happened
During the early 1600s the Americas can be accurately considered as a virgin land by a European because the land was lackinf infrastructures it had no powerful nation settled in the land was fertile and resourceful
If Thomas Jefferson was A slaveowner then why did he states in the declaration of independence that all men are created equal
In Jefferson's point of view slaves were considered us men part of the equality and Jefferson address his statement to everyone
Colonies had debated with the Parliament and protested it's actions since 1763 and why didn't he did the coloration of independence single and King George the third as the tyrant threatening their liberties
In the colonist point of view King George the third was a tyrant threatening their liberties because it was easier to blame one person rather than numerous of people
In many ways North Carolina was the least typical of the five plantation colonies describe the unique features of colonial lake North Carolina and explain why this colony was so unlike in its southern neighbors
In the era of England's colonization there were only five colonies that advance in exporting crops that would likely to be sold in other countries
-
Jackson was both a nationalist and a state's rightist because of how most of his beliefs came out for the common good and able to fix the nation accordingly for the common good. Jackson was a nationalist due to the fact of how he was energized and focused on wanting to fill and provide the needs of the people. Jackson was able to do this by closing down the BUS as it was sought unconstitutional and removal of tariffs. Jackson was also a states rightist to the extent of how he went out of his way to remove Indians from US lands to expand the states, nullifying of laws, and states able to deem laws unconstitutional.
Write your own interpretation of John Winthrop's comment that Massachusetts Bay was to be as a city upon a hill and a beacon to mankind and in your opinion do Americans to hold his view of their nations role in the world why or why not
John Winthrop believe in the theocratic and civil government and he believes that their colony was a perfect model.
Rank the following in order of their importance to the coming of the Civil War: Uncle Tom's Cabin, Kansas-Nebraska Act, Dred Scott decision, John Brown's raid, Lincoln's election. Justify your ranking.
Lincoln's Election - Abraham Lincoln being admitted and being elected into office threatened the South's chances of seceding from the Union and giving justice. This made the South really mad and over the edge. Dred Scott Decision- This showed the South that that the North will not follow any directions whatsoever if it did not benefit the North. This proved an issue for resolution of this. Kansas Nebraska Act- This act would give problems between the North and the South and posed as a mark that there will not be a resolution to the slavery issue anytime soon. This act also disregarded the Missouri Compromise and did not aby by it by splitting the Free and Slave States. John Brown's Raid- The John Brown Raid has to be one of the least important out of all. This is because it was not a fight, but only a raid. Therefore, this means that it was just a rebellion nothing too major. Uncle Tom's Cabin - Uncle Tom's Cabin has to be the least important from the list. It has to be one of the least important because of how it wanted to humanize, or to synthesize slavery and spread abolitionment. Thus, showing that it was not a key event that led to the Civil War.
List the following items in order of their importance as factors in the outbreak of war between the United States and Mexico: Slidell mission, Taylor's troops on the Rio Grande, debt claims of American citizens, Manifest Destiny, Polk's quest for California. Justify your ranking and explain how each item contributed to the outbreak of war
Manifest Destiny- The Manifest Destiny is the most important of all of the factors of the outbreak of the war. This is because without the manifest destiny, or God's calling to move from ocean to ocean, there would be no incentive to actually be going for lands such as California or Texas, etc. Taylor's troops on Rio Grande-Second, Taylor's troops on the Rio Grande River served as a big factor when starting the war. When Taylor had stationed his troops on the Rio Grande, Mexico did not like it because of their belief that it was still their land. The Mexicans believed that the border was the Oregon border and not the Rio Grande. However, US sought it as their land and therefore causing tension and battle for what the border between Mexico and US is. Slidell Mission-Third, the Slidell mission also had a big factor into the turning for war. This is because one of Slidell's mission was to try and seek out a price for California from Mexico for Polk so the thought of manifest destiny can be complete. However, Mexico did not take this too lightly as they saw it as an insult as they had just gotten Texas away from them. Thus, sparking the tension Polk's Quest for California- Fourth, Polks Quest for California is also important because of how not only was it to complete the Manifest Destiny that Polk so hardly believed in, it was also on how they had to fight for California. They had to fight to claim the land. Debt claims of American citizens-Fifth, the debt claims of american citizens contributed less to the war due to it actually being an internal conflict within the US. The citizens were being taxed as a result of the Mexican War and thus concluding that it had really nothing to do with being a factor of starting the war.
Explain the relationship between mercantilism the navigation laws and the British efforts to create a new administrative structure for their empire after 1696
Mercantilism the navigation laws and the British efforts are closely tied factors that help construct the empirical structure of the British
List at least three key principles of government advanced by Thomas Jefferson and the Republican party before 1800. Describe how these ideals fared during Jefferson's administration. Were they translated into public policy? Explain how or, if not, why not.
Prior to 1800, Jefferson and his party believed in a small government, no national debt, and the belief in isolationism. However, when he came to power he decided to continue the Hamiltonian program in which Hamilton was against all three of them. Jefferson decided to keep the national bank and currency and ultimately continued to support the constitution as a strict constitutionalist. In addition to him being a strict constitutionalist and going against excise tax and national bank, he also went against his original views as he interacted with foreign powers such as Napoleon to gain New Orleans, but was ultimately given all of Louisiana.
Construct the definition of puritanism using the concepts of predestination calling covenant protestant ethic and conversion
Puritans are people who believe that having faith and practicing the religious weeks was not enough to fix one salvation and only God has the privilege to choose a person's destination.
Which of the following do you think was the most important issue of the late nineteenth century: the "tariffs, civil-service reform, or currency? Why?
Tariffs: The people disliked the applying of the artificial high tax (tariff) on imported goods. As a result of this, it would widen the wage gap between rich and poor because of how the rich were getting rich due to the industries having high tariff and the poor were getting poorer which would lead to them wanting the tariffs to get rid of or lowered. Civil-Service Reform: This reform stood out to solve the issue of the "Spoils System" which was to address it because of how many people were getting hired without the correct experience to have a job in a high office just because by being a an assistant from a high status. However, this issue was partially solved by President Arthur signing the Pendleton Act. Currency: The Democratic party now wanted to resort to silver as currency as it was easier and simpler for the common man to pay off debts and buying goods. From the Republican side, they wanted to go with gold as the currency as a way to make them maintain their wealth.
The text's authors claim that the Era of Good Feelings is "something of a misnomer" for the decade following the War of 1812. Do you agree? Why or why not?
The "Era of Good Feelings" is often perceived as a misnomer because of although it had it had it "good feeling" times, it also had it's negative times. These negative times that were not so good feelings were the panic of 1819 and the MO Compromise, first promoting sectionalism. First, the panic of 1819 was a time in which what was resulted after the War of 1812. Post War, there was a panic in America that caused economic expansion throughout America to end. This means that banks all across the nation would fail, and foreclosures within homes and lands would occur more resulting into kicking off Americans off of their homes or owned land. In addition to the panic of 1819 not being such a "good feeling", the MO Compromise was also considered to be not such a good feeling. The Missouri Compromise was the idea developed that states should be balanced between free and slave states. In order to do this, the 36'30' line was created in which this imaginary line in the future would be used to determine what kind of future states would be. It was used to determine that new future states above this line would be considered to be free state while future states below the line would be slave states. This was not considered to be a good feeling because this really was the birth of sectionalism in America in which North and South would be highly different and separate.
It is often are you did the British lost or if illusionary war more didn't Americans won itdo you agree or disagree and why
The British lost their revolutionary war more than the Americans won it because it was an external conflict with the majority of the Americans did not want to British to rule and take power among them
Summarize the motives expectations problems and rewards associated with the age if European expansion
The European motives were simply to bring back gold to take in glory and to spread religion.
Describe the impact of European some Native American cultures and the impact of native cultures and Europeans. Then explain why it was or was not a good thing that European culture prevailed.
The Europeans contributed to the culture of the Native Americans by changing their religion. In order to speak religion the European strive to convert the natives to Christianity as well us to bring back gold and glory to their homelands. The Europeans also brought diseases such as smallpox yellow fever and malaria and the natives were not prepared to take in such organisms which led to decrease of tribes due to sickness
In what ways does it appeared that the French and Indian war help the cost American Revolutionary war
The French Indian war help cause the American revolutionary war because it made the call in this unite against the British force
Assess the Jeffersonian presidency. What do you think were his three most important legacies? Explain your choices.
The Jeffersonian presidency was a really consistent presidency. Although he had left some bad commodities during his time he also left a pretty good legacy. One of commodities that he left that was hated from him was the Embargo Act. The Act was that all exports coming into the nation were considered illegal. This was bad because of how it really affected the nation's economy and how it also help jumpstart the Industrial Rev in New England. Although the commodity of the Embargo Act left a very bad taste into Americans, Jefferson was also known for his peaceful transition between him and Adams, and his purchase of Louisiana. The federalists wanted for him to be the next president as he was seen as a better choice over Adams again. In addition to his good legacy, The Louisiana Purchase left a good legacy for him as it made America continue to gain land, expand more to the west, and actually doubled the size of America from what it originally was.
Why did the Ohio Valley become the arena of conflict between the French and the British in America
The Ohio Valley became the arena of conflict between France and Great Britain because France wanted to link to their Canadian holding along The Mississippi Valley what the British wanted to take the piece in order to compete with the French for trading business and also to move beyond Appalachian Mountains in order to create you farmlands
Compare and contrast the articles of Confederation and the Constitution especially in regard to the specific powers granted by each to the national government
The articles of Confederation was a weak central government that gave its power to state why the constitution was the factor that gave the national government more power
Given the quebec act did not apply to the 13 sea board colonies why did the ace create such a stir or protest among them
The clue and you thought the quebec act was a punishment forget actions during the Boston tea party would Americans disguise as Indians and they opened tea crates and dumped it on the Boston Harbor
Write your definition of democracy and then use this definition to argue that the colonial politics had or had not become democratic by 1760
The colonial powers were not democratic because only men in Rich owners are able to participate in political relations
Are the conquistadores to be considered villains or heroes for the action send Americas
The conquistadors can be considered as both villains and heroes because they had placed themselves in a position as people who killed other people and S wants to influence the natives to develop
Write your definition of revolution. Then use this definition to argue that the "Revolution of 1800" was a real revolution or a more moderate "renovation" in American political history.
The definition of revolution is of when there is a rebellion or act of going against something in favor for a new political system. The Revolution of 1800 was not a real revolution due to the fact of how the exchanges of presidency between Jefferson and Adams was a peaceful one. Although during this time it can be seen that Adams should have won this presidency against Jefferson, those in the Federalist parties did not. Federalists disagreed with Adams due to the fact of how he was against past revolutions such as in 1776, 1787. With Federalists agreeing for Jefferson to be the next president, they had high hopes for him to "renovate" and make the country better unlike Jefferson who often were against people for their ideas.
Discuss the similarities and differences between the confident ration a few England and the dominion of new England
The difference between the new England Confederation and new England dominion was that the configuration was appointed to the colonial members according to their own incentives why did the minion was to strip the colonies from their freedom and independence because the mother country was seem to be threatened by it
List the five most important inventions of the early nineteenth century and rank them in order of importance. Justify your ranking.
The five most important inventions of the early 19th century come to the order of railroads, steamboats, cotton gin, telegraph, and the reaper... 1) Railroads: During the spark of Industrialization, railroads were a very important innovation and invention because it allowed for the fastest method of transportation to date. Not only were railroads used for transportation, it allowed for trades and goods farther than usual to get there in a much faster time and allowed for trade in greater distances. 2) Steamboats: Similarly to the railroad, the steamboat invention was also a very important invention. Unlike a regular sailboat, this steamboat is powered by steam engines. Although not as fast as the railroad, it served as the same purpose. It allowed for faster travel, and allowed for trades and goods to get made in a faster time and to greater distances. 3) Cotton Gin: The cotton gin is an invention that would separate the seeds and cotton from each other in a much faster and swifty rate. The cotton gin was invented by Eli Whitney. The cotton gin is one of the most important inventions in the list because it was one of the first inventions that would not require an actual worker, but a use of a machine. Due to it not being manually separated by a worker, it allowed for more money and profit to be brought in when using the cotton gin. 4) Telegraph: The telegraph was a very important invention because of how it introduced a new form of communication within people now in the world now. Although only limited to the use of morse code(communication through signals of sound), it allowed for specialized workers to use this as an advantage for translating jobs, a new form of communication, and allowed to work for states who needed specialized people. 5) Reaper: Although very helpful to farmers, not very a huge contributor to industrial rev. However, it allowed the process of cutting wheat and separating them to be faster. This invention was first invented by McCormick.
Define the following terms; funding, assumption, the National Bank, and protective tariffs in Hamilton's program?
The following terms: funding, assumption, the National Bank, and protective tariffs mean force of pay, believing to be true without explanation, and taxing on foreign goods. The following terms all contribute to Hamilton's plan. The plan that he had was to try and get the United States out of debt during his terms of presidency. The term funding relates to one of his plans in the "funding at par". The funding at par was that when the United States would pay for the money that they owed, they would pay at a face value and interest. The term assumption relates to Hamilton's plan was of his assumption of debt that the states had on the government and that they needed to pay. The National Bank was one of his plans in which he strongly believed that the nation should have. So much that he would have disagreements with Jefferson because of him believing it was prohibited by the constitution. Lastly, the term of protective tariffs relates to Hamilton because tariffs were one of the taxes that Hamilton would impose. Tariff taxes were the taxation on foreign goods, which would then help America because it influenced buyers to buy within the country
To what degree was the government of Massachusetts Bay simultaneously theocratic and democratic
The government of Massachusetts Bay was simultaneously theocratic and democratic in many different ways. It was theocratic because everyone relied on their faith in God to build a society that would be a model for the people. It was democratic because the people in the colony voted for a governor annually
Explain why the French and Indian war has also been called the great war for empire and why this might be an appropriate name for this war
The great war for empire is an appropriate name for the French Indian war because it was the war between France and England that determines who will be the one who would dominate the New World
What was the impact of industry, urbanization, and the transportation revolution on American agriculture?
The impact of industry, urbanization, and transportation allowed for American agriculture start to fade with the three energizing the spark of Industrial Revolution. The impact of industry allowed for more income and money to come even with agrarian states in the south. The innovation of the cotton gin allowed for faster processes of the separation of cotton and seeds making it a work of machines and not through manual labor of humans. With less humans doing the labor and machines doing it, more money is saved and more money is coming in. The advances in the technology allowed for those living in farm lands to start to move and promote the growth of living within the city. The use of labor workers in farm lands started to decrease and a huge demand for urban workers became a must which then influenced people for urbanization. Lastly, the innovation of transportation in the inventions of railroads and steamboats allowed for faster travel and trade in greater distances thus influencing the industrial rev and starting to fade away from the american agriculture industry.
Rank the items in the following list starting with the one that you think had the most important consequences and then justify your ranking finally speculate as to what might have happened had If these events had not of occured
The introduction of slavery into the plantation colonies was a way for the south to produce more in the form of tobacco cotton and indigo
What lessons do you think English colonist learn from their early Jamestown experience?
The leadership in Jamestown was under developed causing numerous deaths. Every worker work independently and they did not work for the sake of the community. They only thought about their personal benefits. This led to famine because everyone relied on themselves and not about social production
Identify the single most significant development in (a) manufacturing technology, (b) transportation, (c) communications technology, and that encouraged industrialization in the United States. Explain your choice in each category.
The most significant developments in manufacturing technology, transportation, and communications technology came from the inventions of the cotton gin, railroads, and the telegraph respectively... (A): Cotton Gin- The cotton gin was invented by Eli Whitney. The Cotton Gin was a manufacture that allowed for the separation of cotton away from their seeds in a much faster process. The cotton gin contributed to the industrial rev in the way of how it promoted machines rather than manual labor. The benefits of allowing the cotton gin do the manual labor, it allowed for money, profits to come in. (B): Railroads- The adaption of railroads were a faster use of transportation and travel. The railroads contributed to the industrial rev due to how it allowed for transportation to greater distances much easier and faster. In addition, it allowed for trading to be much easier and faster too. It made trading to occur much faster and to much greater distances than usual. (C) : Telegraph- The invention of the telegraph allowed for a new form of communication. This new form of communication allowed for a more connected society as it allowed for people and states to come closer together. However, it was only limited to morse code users. The telegraph contributed to the industrial rev because of how it allowed for specialized workers within this area to become translators that opened jobs for these people.
Argue either debt an American way of life had emerged by dissent of 17 century or dad to Hooley distinct ways of life one new England and the other Sutton had a marriage by the end of 17 century
The population is made up of mostly entirely of white and religious people in new England and in the other hand the south was mostly made up of black people the region was filled with tobacco industry so they needed more laborers to break for dinner and he relied on slave trade and that is why they were populated be black workers does new England headed is your dentist south due to his conditions
-
Thesis: Both events between the Calhoun's doctrine of nullification and the Kentucky and Virginia resolution are both respectively towards the target for states' rights. Paragraph: Calhoun's doctrine had allowed the states the right to nullify laws and to actually give them the choice in deciding whether the laws should be considered constitutional or unconstitutional. This Doctrine of Nullification is similar to the Virginia and Kentucky resolution is that or a law unconstitutional and to see if whether or not that they should go and try to nullify it or not. In the Virginia and Kentucky Resolution the law of the Alien and Sedition Acts was seen as unconstitutional, making it nullified. Calhoun's doctrine, The Exposition was in made in order to give states the encouragement to not listen to federal law as well as not be followers of the tariff. In other words if a law was irrelevant to a state or did not give any help nor support then it was able to be nullified.
Do you think that by the end of 1854 the two sections had reached an impasse and that Civil War was inevitable sooner or later? Why or why not?
Thesis: By the end of 1854, the North and the South did reach an impasse and the Civil War was inevitable due to the continuous dispute on slavery. Paragraph: Slavery in general was a big part of the South. Slavery was such a big part of the Southern states because of how it was the main source of their labor. Unlike the South, the North did not necessarily need slavery for their labor and were actually against slavery. In addition, the Kansas Nebraska Act would actually ignite the dispute of slavery because of how it would ultimately disobey the Missouri Compromise and not follow the rule of the 36'30 line. This would be viewed as a way to try and expand more land and the North would not have any of that. It would also lead to many parties such as Whigs, Democrats, etc to go against it(397). Thus, concluding that the two sections of the North and the South remaining deadlock and not making progress with each other and the Civil War on the topic of slavery looking more and more inevitable and sooner.
In what ways were cotton production and slavery more a burden to the South than a benefit?
Thesis: Cotton production and slavery were more of a burden to the south rather than a benefit because of how slaves would threaten their masters and their bosses and how cotton production in general relied on cotton and labor. Paragraph: Both cotton production and slavery were both burdens and often impacted each other. One example of how slavery was seen as a burden was the way that slaves would work slower and how slaves would also break the machines that would be given to them for labor. This would be seen as a burden because of how cotton factories profits would plummet and decrease. In addition, cotton production would be seen as a burden because of how cotton production demanded a lot of workers and slaves for the job. Also, unfairness in the work also contributed to burdens among cotton production. These poor slaves who would work on cotton production, would will still remain poor because of how little pay and unfair treatment they would get in exchange for a hard job and often a very tedious yet hard job. This would lead to many slaves working go look for new job opportunities. These job opportunities would be available to the south as work conditions were anything like but the south. The great demand for slaves would then lead to runaway slaves, fear of any sort of revolts, and very low work ethics. Thus, making slaveowners and factory owners to keep this in mind when using cotton production and slavery, concluding that these two were a burden to the south rather than a benefit.
Before 1790, American leaders denounced political parties. Explain why, nonetheless, political parties came into existence and what function they performed in the early Republic.
Thesis: Even though political leaders such as Washington would denounce political parties, they however would still be in the picture due to how the difference in the Jeffersonians or Federalists were either for or against government. Paragraph: In the early Americas, there were two political parties that were against or for the constitution. These two parties were the federalists and antifederalists. Even though they were two political parties with two viewpoints, WAshington would denounce them due to him not seeing them as loyal people to the nation. However, federalists would then come back and be against the Jeffersonians. Jeffersonians were often strict interpreters while federalists were loose. For example, The federalists, Hamilton, would want to create a national bank and there is nothing said in the constitution that says they cannot, but the the Jeffersonians, strict interpreters, believed they cannot and thought of it strictly. Moreover, political parties with different viewpoints such as federalists and Jeffersonians would still arise even when being denounced from political leaders.
Did extreme abolitionists do more harm than good? In what way? How would you have solved the slavery problem?
Thesis: Extreme abolitionists did more harm than good due to how eventually, extreme abolitionists would actually get rid of slavery due to many anti-slavery movements. Paragraph: Anti- Slavery activists were a group of people who were against slavery and promoted anti-slavery movements. An example of one extremist abolitionists was Frederick Douglass. These actions by abolitionists were simply more good than harm because of how south would disagree with this because of how they believed in slavery. Abolitionists like Douglass saw slavery as like a crime. Therefore, the extreme abolitionists seeing the treatment of slaves being unjust and wanting this to stop. Frederick Douglass would then bring up his thoughts on slavery through literary works and call to attention of stopping slavery. Thus, concluding that extreme abolitionists like Douglass were seen as more good than harm due to how they helped stopped slavery and prevent slavery for upcoming generations like today.
Explain why General Sherman conducted the devastating "march to the sea." Explain in what ways this was like conducting modern "total war."
Thesis: General Sherman commenced the "march to sea" to allow the Confederates to get weakened and thus being referred as a "total war" due to the damage it cost of the Confederates unable to retaliate back. Paragraph: In Sherman's march, it started in Atlanta and ended in Savannah in 1864. The General's goal in this march was to go out and to weaken the Confederate army. In order to weaken the Confederates, Sherman had devised a plan in which they would destroy all intended supplies for the Confederates and eventually target the homes of soldiers and civilians. Therefore, this being named a "total war" because it struck them down to a point in which they had no response. The damage of Sherman's "march to sea" was so strong that it discontinued the Confederates eligibility to continue on with the Civil War.
It was argued by some that the slaves were better off than both wage earners in northern industry and free blacks back in Africa. Do you agree? Why or why not?
Thesis: Historians and public figures would argue that slaves were better than being a wage earner in northern industry and free blacks in Africa. However, this is not true due to how being a slave in the south would mean being constantly mistreated and abused by others and looked upon as a unhuman like person without any control of one's own. Paragraph: Slaves were often argued that it would have been better to be a slave rather than a wage worker in the north or a free slave in Africa. However this is not true because as a slave in the south, this meant to do things as ordered without any agreement or hesitation and expected to do things correctly. In the north workers and free slaves, you would be able to have a say in what you agree with or what not agree with. On the other hand though, others would agree to how slaves were better off than wage workers or free blacks. Although slaves were often treated as not human and in bad terms, technologies, industries, and shelters would be worse as a wage worker or a free slave in Africa. Wage workers would than work in much more in bad conditions than a slave actually would. Wage workers would then work for very long hours and often in unsanitary places, thus concluding that slaves who did not have freedom were in better shape than being a northern wage worker and a free slave in Africa.
It has been wryly observed that "the North won the Civil War, but the South won Reconstruction." Interpret this statement and assess its truth.
Thesis: It has been observed of how "the North won the Civil War, but the South won Reconstruction" because of how after the war was over, the South had many damages to them which lead to many opportunities for improvement. Paragraph: At the conclusion of the Civil War, ⅔ part of the South was damaged as a result from the North. In addition, many railroads and lands for farming were also harmed as a result of the Civil War. Because of a lot of land being harmed and destroyed, this led to the window of opportunity for improvements to occur. These improvements that occured was the rebuilding of the transcontinental railroad which was now better as it now was stretching from coast to coast. In addition, Cotton factories for the South were created and allowed for them to gain more money. In conclusion, the South really won the reconstruction.
James K. Polk is often ranked as one of America's "near great" presidents. Do you agree that he should be so highly ranked? Why or why not?
Thesis: James K Polk is one of the "near great" presidents because of his accomplishments in his first term as president. Paragraph: When Polk came to power as president, he had established four main points when he became president. He established the lowering of taxes in 1492, he was in the middle of the solution for the Oregon border, successfully gained California, and restored independent treasury. Each of these four main points that Polk had established impacted the US in several different ways. As a result of the lowering of the taxes, they were lowered down by 7%. The solution of the Oregon border would give the US a little bit more land. The gaining of California expanded the amount of land the US had and successfully completing the "Manifest Destiny". Lastly, the restoration of independent treasury allowed for country's money to be held in non governmental banks.
John Adams called his peaceful resolution of the problems with France in 1800 "the most splendid diamond in my crown." Why did he think so? Was his pride justified? Why or why not?
Thesis: John Adams calls his peaceful resolution to the problem with France as a "splendid diamond in his crown" because of how if he had not made the peace between United States and France, war between the two would be as a result. Paragraph: Before John Adams was able to secure a resolution to many problems with the French, the problems between the two consisted of the anger France started to have against the United States. Let alone that they had an active treaty in which the United States had to fulfill, but did not help and remained neutral. In addition to that, the Jay Treaty also added fuel to the fire to make France mad. The French felt betrayed from what they believed to be their loyal allies and thought that there was now an alliance between GB and US after all that France has done to aid the US. This showed that war between the France and US was bound to happen, however, John Adams signing the Convention of 1800 in which US will pay for the damage of shippers to France, war was avoided and the peace between France and US was now again.
How might John Quincy Adam's behavior in the Florida Purchase Treaty and Monroe Doctrine earn him the title "lone-wolf nationalist"?
Thesis: John Quincy Adams earned the title of a "lone-wolf nationalist" because of the fact of how his behavior in the Florida Purchase Treaty and Monroe Doctrine was often strategic and beneficial. Paragraph: The behavior of John Quincey Adams was often looked as to be tactical or strategic. It was strategic because of how he made the decisions that were beneficial for the country. For the Florida Purchase Treaty, he was able to make Spain give up Florida in exchange for Texas. In addition to this, he was also a big force and was a big ear in the Monroe Doctrine. The Monroe Doctrine was basically a doctrine created by him to ensure to make Europeans stay away from their land and Latin America and that they won't mess around with Europe. Thus, allowing America to continue to develop as a nation. He was able to gain the title "lone-wolf nationalist" by being strategic throughout the Florida Purchase Treaty and the Monroe Doctrine.
Business leaders of the late nineteenth century have been characterized both as greedy and unscrupulous "robber barons" and as great "captains of industry" whose entrepreneurial skill and tactics produced economic growth. Which view do you find more persuasive? Why?
Thesis: John Rockefeller was famously known as a robber barron during the Gilded Age because of the call for extensive action of domination. Background: In America, monopolies had started to become more and more common when these companies would have not that much competition. Only one company would tend to dominate a certain area due to not that many competition. Due to the lack of competition, owners would then become robber barons and create extensive charge in products so they can create profit for it. Paragraphs: John Rockefeller came up with the idea of monopolizing his business to gain control of his products. One of his dominating products was the oil. It was important due to how it controlled over 95% of oil refineries in America. In addition, company productions would downfall, use of cars, and spies. Another that took advantage of monopolizing without knowing his actions, was Andrew Carnegie, but he did not know he was. What he did was he produced over 25% of steel in his company, donated to less fortunate, and vertical integration. Pierpoint Morgan also went up on the thought of growing monopolies by attacking a company from the inside. He would ensure the point of peace between companies. In addition, the panic of 1980, people would need to solve these issues and the thought of the interlocking directories.
The Civil War began in 1861. Why was it 1863 before Lincoln committed the Union to the emancipation of slaves?
Thesis: Lincoln decided to wait to commit to the Union and Emancipation of slaves, due to him not wanting to start in a rush when not even able to secure a battle in the war. Paragraph: Once Lincoln was elected into office, his main goal as president foremost was to resolve the issue of the Union and keep it intact. However, this was seen to be a hard task because of how the South seceded from the Union due to them wanting to escape the governmental system. Lincoln wanted to actually focus on reuniting the North and the South more than ever rather than fixing issues of slavery. He believed that slavery was caused from the secession of the South which then led to him wanting to reunite the two. In order to allow this and resolve this war, he created the Emancipation of slaves that "held all people as slaves". However, Lincoln decided to put a holt before starting it because of how he might have risk losing his border states that were very important to him and not losing them. He would then wait for a major victory in Antietam which was viewed by Lincoln a perfect time to go and pass it.
When confronted with Southern secession in 1861, why didn't Lincoln simply allow the South to separate in peace?
Thesis: Lincoln did not simply allow the South to separate in peace due to how he wanted to maintain and allow the Union to still exist. Paragraph: Lincoln in his presidency, had one major goal above all else which was to preserve and keep the Union. However, the South and Southerners were against the US government and did not agree with them. This would lead to the South eventually seceding from the US and thus creating the Confederates. The South would also would not leave quietly as they would make the first attacks on Fort Sumter. Lincoln would decide to give some Northern States some supplies to prepare if ever the South would attack first. However, the confederates would believe for this to be reinforcements coming from Lincoln to attack the South. Thus, showing that the South would not separate in peace and would attack first.
How do the Knickerbocker group, Hudson River school, and transcendentalists all reflect the "nationalism" of early-nineteenth-century America? What particularly "American" values did each reflect?
Thesis: Many groups in America showed a sense of nationalism to mark the glorification of America. Paragraph: The term transcendentalism means of trying to get away from our European counterparts and try to now create our own tradition, customs, and etc which was originally founded by Ralph Emerson. This then ignited the spark into creating our own customs and starting our own traditions as a family. Thus, representing nationalism. The knickerbocker group showed a sense of nationalism when they are all represented by American Authors such as Washington Irving and Cooper. These writers are so essential to the early 19th century due to how they wrote about the American revolution, the creation of the republican party's, everything happening in the country, etc. With these writers writing about what is happening in the country and showing great pride and interest, this shows their sense of nationalism. Lastly, the Hudson River School allowed themselves to show their sense of nationalism through the constant use of art. The Hudson River School viewed and tried to represent the country of America to be a beautiful land, very bright, and able to continue to better themselves in the future.
Compare and contrast Lincoln's, Johnson's, and Congress's plans for Reconstruction. Cite what was included and what was omitted. Which program do you think was the best? Why?
Thesis: Of the three between Lincoln, Johnson, and Congress, Lincoln had the best plan for Reconstruction. Paragraph: Lincoln's plan was the best for him wanting a quick and simple easy reconstruction plan. His plan was that only 10% of the South had to take an oath to be faithful to the Union and they would be readmitted to the Union. This would be a very quick readmission as the South would allow 10 percent of the voters to be back for the US. This was the best plan as it was quick, easy, not complex and allowed for reconstruction to happen in a faster rate. Johnson's plan was very similar to Lincoln's plan. However he added the disenfranchisement of Confederate leaders. Basically getting rid of all power for Confed leaders. He wanted to reject all of of Confederate leaders and expose the 13th amendment which was the amendment that allowed for free slaves. He believed if the South were willing to follow this, they would then be readmitted back to the Union. Lastly, Congress plan was the worst. This is because of how it was complete ridiculous. It was like Lincoln's plan, but he wanted a 50% commitment rather than 10%. However, this was not passed as the president vetoed it. The Souths tried to pass this law as they wanted to go re-enslave the blacks. Thus, making it the worst plan.
Why was President Johnson impeached? Why didn't the Senate convict him of "high crimes and misdemeanors"? What do you think his conviction in the Senate might have meant for our system of government?
Thesis: President Johnson was impeached due to the Congress seeing him as a person who was unhelpful which lead to them wanting to go and get rid of him. Paragraph: President Johnson was viewed as a president who was unhelpful. As a response, Congress wanted to find any possible excuse in order to get him out of that position. However, he was saved by a vote that would make him go over the 2/3 . In addition, he did not even commit a crime that was so worth of him being impeached. However, one of his "crimes" that he committed was disagree with Congress. In addition, historians believed that him being convicted out of the Senate could have meant a possible change in the system of government in the United States. The reason for this is due to how the Congress had been passing a lot of bills and acts, but President Johnson would use his power to constantly deny it and veto it. The right thing to do is to resort to a different type of government that would allow something to have a higher power than the president.
Do you think that President Lincoln was justified in his violations of ordinary civil liberties during the Civil War? Why or why not?
Thesis: President Lincoln was justified in his violations of ordinary civil liberties during the Civil War because he was doing it all for the benefit of not losing anymore southern states to the Confederates. Paragraph: During the Civil War, Lincoln has now lost many southern states such as the Carolinas , Mississippi, Texas, etc. However, the only southern states that Lincoln had left were Maryland, Missouri, Kentucky, Delaware, and West Virginia(420). These states were border states and were very important to Abraham Lincoln. This was important because of how Lincoln now wanted to keep Maryland and the rest of the border states to the Confederates. What Abraham Lincoln would do to try and prevent them from losing any more states to the South was Lincoln regulating civil rights. These civil rights were Freedom of Speech and Press. This was shown to be a justified move or reasonable move due to how this was all for the cause of not losing anymore states to the south.
What basis did Thomas Jefferson have for believing that American trade could be used as a diplomatic tool? Would you judge his economic coercion policy a failure or a success? Why or why not?
Thesis: Since France and GB looked towards America as a very underdeveloped and weak country, Jefferson then cut off all interactions with them as a attempt to prevent them from continuing to attack the US and their ships. Paragraph: When America finally had gotten their neutrality from the 2 countries, France and GB still looked down upon them and as a result they would target the nation's waters and navy. Due to the country still being weak and Jefferson being a antinavalist, one who does not go for a navy, America could not do anything about it politically. So the only reasonable action to take was economically. Since these 2 countries relied on the US for their raw materials and goods not accessible in Europe, US decided to put on the Embargo Act which basically halted all trades with foreign nations. However, it was a failure as it completely staggered the economy and Europe started making their own goods, and jump starting the Industrial Rev. As a counter to this, Jefferson then applied and passed the Non Intercourse Act in which all nations were able to trade with except GB and France. However, it still made a big target in the US due to how thoughtless the Embargo Acts were.
Texas declared its independence from Mexico in 1836. Why wasn't it annexed to the United States until 1845?
Thesis: Texas was not added into the US until 1845 due to how Paragraph: After Texas had finally gotten its independence, the US wanted them join the US as a state, however Texas voted to be annexed with the US. However, due to the US not in favor for the annexation, there was no official say of them actually being annexed. The refusal of the US not adding Texas as a state was because of how the likes of Van Buren and his admin actually had a fear of war with Mexico. In addition to this, the adding of Texas as a state would disrupt the balance again amongst the states and thus debate whether or not to put it as a slave or free state. In the long run, Texas was eventually annexed into being a free state in 1845.
Assess the achievements and shortcomings of "radical" regimes in the South. What did they do that is worth admiring and worth condemning? What else might they have done to better achieve their goals?
Thesis: The "radical" regimes in the South had three major successes : the Ku Klux Klan, Freemen's Bureau, and the Radical Republicans. Paragraph: The first success, was the Ku Klux Klan or KKK for short. They were said to be a group that believed in the benefit of the White American. In addition, the Freemen's Bureau was also a success as it was to help the benefit of the blacks. It benefitted the blacks due to them being provided with free food, clothes, and such. Lastly, another success were the Radical Republicans. These people were against slavery and tried to protect Black rights. They could have done better with how they executed it. For the KKK, in order to go for white american advancements, they should not have done and killed many blacks. For the Freemen's Bureau, they should have helped the blacks gain their land. Lastly for the Radical Republicans, they should have done and show support for the entire society not just one group.
Did the Civil War slow the United States Industrial Revolution, or did it help usher in modern America?
Thesis: The Civil War would usher or fasten modern America due to how the production of sizing in clothing would then be promoted and occurring. Paragraph: Throughout the Civil War, the United States would go and have advancements in clothing as it occurred. Before to the Civil War, stores would not provide clothing in different and various sizes rather they would be sold through material of what the individual would want the clothing to be. This would be sold in stores and then the individual would go and by the material and make the clothing for themselves. This would be seen by the Union to be quite time consuming so they would then and create many various sizes to be ready for the type of individual who had it to go and buy it. During this time, the invention of Singer Sewing would allow the process of sewing to be faster rather than sewing by hand. Therefore the Civil War did not slow down the Industrialization rather it ushered and it and further developed.
Describe the provisions of the Interstate Commerce Act and the Sherman Antitrust Act. Explain the motives behind their enactment and evaluate the success of each.
Thesis: The Interstate Commerce Act and the Sherman Antitrust Act were both acts that designed to create a sort of balance between those who had power and those who did not have that much power. Thus, these civilians were put around rules to create this loophole for the balance of power between the two social classes. Paragraph: The Interstate Commerce Act was designed for the railroads so that they can ensure fair and equal rights so that they can address the amount of high discrimination. This was created because of how farmers were being charged for ridiculous rates for short distant rides. This act would be seen as very successful because of how it made railroad fees equal and allowed it to be more affordable. In addition, the Sherman Antitrust Act was an act that allowed for regulating railroads, but it would limit the powers that companies would have over trade. Showing that, this was not such a successful act.
Explain why the Kansas-Nebraska Act might be characterized as a serious mistake for southern interests.
Thesis: The Kansas-Nebraska Act can be shown as a serious mistake for southern interests due to how it would lead to the South going against it heavily. Paragraph: The Senator from Illinois, Stephen Douglas had supported the South and he too actually wanted to try and attempt to expand slavery westward and beyond. He had created the proposal to seperate the state of Nebraska into two: Nebraska and Kansas. This was determined through popular sovereignty, or by the people. What this would do is go against the Missouri Compromise of the 36'30 line. It disrupted the 36'30 line due to the Kansas expanding to the west of Missouri becoming a slave state and Nebraska expanding west of Iowa becoming a free state. This would then be actually be supported by Southerners. However, with the birth of the Republican party, it would go against this really quick. The Republican party did not really agree with this idea so what they did was go against the gain of slavery. With the Republican party joining along, it would then be followed by such political groups in: Whigs, Democrats, Free Soilers, etc.(397). In addition, this would then lead to the sectional rift start to appear. This rift was called the Mason-Dixon Line, making sure the the Republican party would not be allowed under it at all times(394).
Suppose you were a faithful Republican Party adviser to President Jefferson in 1803. What arguments would you present in favor of the Louisiana Purchase? What arguments opposing the purchase would you have to counter?
Thesis: The Louisiana Purchase was quite controversial. Having its pro and cons, the pro of the purchase is to further extend the American lands west and continue to expand. However, the con of it is the image set on Jefferson as he is a strict constitutionalist in which he does not go against the constitution. Paragraph: Thomas Jefferson in 1803 had approached Napoleon into discussion in hopes for buying New Orleans from him as he was the owner of Louisiana. The need for New Orleans by Jefferson was needed due to the fact of how many farmers at the time were shipping a lot of their products towards the city. In need of some money due to the Haitian Revolution, Napoleon actually offered all of Louisiana for just 15 million dollars. Jefferson accepting, it was a really eventful day for America as it was the day were they officially had gained more land and were able to expand more towards the west. However, it was quite controversial due to fact of how it went against Jefferson's ideas in which he was a strict constitutionalist, to not go against the constitution. Although the constitution did not say anything to be able to buy land to expand, it was really beneficial into getting to the America we are now in today,
Explain why it is sometimes argued that the Mexican War was a major cause of the Civil War.
Thesis: The Mexican War is argued that it was a major cause for the cause of the Civil War because of how the Southern states wanted to try and expand slavery as the Mexican War was going on. Paragraph: The Mexican War of 1846 was because of how the annexation of Texas and the location of the border. The Mexican war was fought in the southern part of the us. Therefore, the south seemed helped from the north, but north would decline due to the south wanting to expand slavery. After the war, all of the land that was gained was below the 36'30 line, therefore these new lands have to be slave states. Since it was below, the south wanted to make these new acquired lands to be slave states. However the Wilmot Proviso, passed by David Wilmot, designed it to reject slavery on the newly acquired land from the Mexican war. This would then spark the Civil War because of how the south's arguments of slavery remaining in the south between the Northern states and the Southern states.
Explain why the Mormons became a target for religious intolerance in America. (
Thesis: The Mormons became a target for religious intolerance due to how their beliefs were seen as ridiculous and others were against them and disagreed with them. Paragraph: The mormons originated and were found by Joseph Smith. The mormon religion was an unorthodox way of living life. This included as guidelines to be followed in life such as no gambling, drinking alcoholic drinks, and the belief in having more than one wife at the same time. This was known as polygamy. Polygamy is what mormons would do during their lifetime which was to have more than one wife at the same time. Although, this is what they believed in and saw it as a right thing to do, society did not view it the same way as them. This lead to many men having more than one families at the same time which would also lead to conflict. It would lead to conflict because of how now women would then have to in sexual relations with much more older people. Overtime, laws were then passed in order to prevent this. Thus, allowing mormons to be a target for religious intolerance. In addition to them being a religious target, they settled towards Salt Lake City, Utah in order to avoid religious persecution towards them. So they settled in Salt Lake allowing them to not be as a religious intolerance than they should be.
-
Thesis: The National Government of South Carolina actually "won" the nullification crisis because of how North Carolina was powerless against the National Government and Andrew Jackson himself.. Paragraph: Jackson overall was quite a demanding president and wanted everything to happen his way. If for any circumstance Jackson were not to get what he wants, he would now then use his fighting prowess, his army to get what he wants. One example that shows of Jackson using army power was when he prepared them to remove the tariffs from the people. South Carolina distressingly had to pay up to the National Government because of Jackson threatening them with his army. North Carolina then realized that Jackson held his position and was sternly serious about the tariff issue. Therefore, the rights of the state was no match for that or Jackson and the Federal powers, which led to the loss of North Carolina.
The authors argue that the North "got the better of the Compromise of 1850." Do you agree? Why or why not?
Thesis: The North did get the better of the Compromise of 1850 due to how North gaining all the benefits and the South not so much. Paragraph: The Compromise of 1850 resulted into the gaining of California as a free state. With California as a free state, they tipped the balance of Senate balance against the South's favor permanently(385). In addition to the gaining of California as a free state, Texas would also give up it's lands that coincide with New Mexico. On the other hand, the South did not get so much from the Compromise of 1850. Really the only thing that the South got from the Compromise was the Fugitive Slave Act. The Fugitive Slave Act was the Act passed that if a runaway slave were to be found, they could no longer be testified or denied a jury trial(386). However, this Act would end up being quite useless to the South. This Act was not highly enforced and was often ignored. This would enrage Southerners due to how this was the only thing that they saw that came good out of the Compromise of 1850, however due to it not being enforced, this was not really a benefit for the South rather confirming that the North got one up against the South from the results from the Compromise.
Explain why the Northeast became the first industrial center of the United States and why the South lagged in economic industrialization.
Thesis: The Northeast became the first industrial center of the US because of how in general they were ahead innovatively and the south were lagged down behind industrialization due to the economy being more based around farming, agrarian. Paragraph: The Northeast was an industrial center of the US due to how up north had the vast majority of resources. These resources would include many various ports to send out trades, transportation, etc. With many ports built on the northeast area of the US, it allowed for their technological advances such as the steamboats to come to effect. The southern part of the US were a much more agrarian type of economy therefore making them more lagged on the industrialization. Due to their economy being more agrarian, they did not rely on that much innovative industrial inventions other than the cotton gin. The cotton gin was quite popular in the south due to how it allowed for faster processes of separating cotton from their seeds.
Why were the landlocked South and West so ardently in favor of a war for freedom of the seas that sea fronting states in the East opposed?
Thesis: The South and West were for war for freedom of the seas because of how they sought it as a sense of nationalism. The East opposed this idea due to how their sea ships were being impressed,often believing it was not as beneficial to America and their economy. Paragraph: The South and the West were in favor for war for freedom because of how they did not necessarily like the Native Americans attacking them and taking land, forts, areas that were not theirs. In addition, the war would be beneficial to them because of how it would reach the goal of America reaching Canada. The goal to reach Canada was very important because they believed it would extend, expand, and broaden the routes for trading goods. However, the East opposed to war because they believed that the British were important connections to the economy. If losing access to the British, it would drastically affect the economy.
What was responsible for the violence in "Bleeding Kansas"? Why might the violence be viewed as a "prelude to Civil War"?
Thesis: The Southern exclamation over the North, those trying to spread abolitionment, was a result for the violence of "Bleeding Kansas" and a "prelude to the Civil War". Paragraph: The event of "Bleeding Kansas" was a war that had started for those that were on the opposing sides of the slavery in Kansas. This event took place in 1854. This event occurred because of the over ruling and going against the MO Compromise and thus leading into Popular Sovereignty that allowed for society to vote for a territory to either be a free or slave state. Kansas would then begin to try and give their opinions on slavery to the South. However, the South would not allow this and would then result into the violence of "Bleeding Kansas". This violence would then be viewed as a "prelude" to the civil war because of how the conflicts and tension are now being seen between the North and the South. Although not the first time there is tension, there is now tension between the two where violence is now involved.
Very early in its national history, the United States established a tradition of isolationism in its foreign policy. How did the Neutrality Proclamation and Washington's Farewell Address contribute to this tradition?
Thesis: The United States created a tradition in which they were to remain neutral in public affairs. The Neutrality Proclamation and Washington's Farewell Address did exactly that to avoid their country being dragged into a situation in which their country can be endangered. Paragraph: The Neutrality Proclamation contributed to the tradition of neutrality because of how the United States was bound to go and help the French. This alliance was dated all the way back to 1778 in which the United States would help the French if France were to be attacked by foes of the French. This treaty was called the Franco-American Alliance. However, George Washington would not want to get involved with foreign affairs let alone the French Revolution because of his belief in the nation still being relatively weak to be involved with foreign affairs. He believed if the United States were to get involved with this, the United States would be screwed and ultimately can endanger their own country. Furthermore, George Washington influences to continue this tradition to those who will be presidents after him with his claim to avoid "permanent alliances". He uses this to further his belief in neutrality because of the thought if there are permanent alliances, there will be expectancy for you to live up to it. However, this was not the case when George Washington decided not to aid the French. As Washington did not do this, he stresses out for no permanent alliances so that it will not stir conflicts with other nations in the future. Overall, the Neutrality Proclamation and Washington's Farewell Address contributed to the tradition because of how the nation was to weak to actually be and involved with foreign affairs.
Why did the United States reject the British foreign minister's proposal for a joint declaration of opposition to any further colonization in the Western Hemisphere?
Thesis: The United States rejected the British Foreign Minister's proposal for a joint declaration of opposition to further colonization in Western Hemisphere because of how the US does not trust Britain anymore. Paragraph: The proposal that the British foreign minister for opposition in further colonization in Western Hemisphere because of how it was only an idea of westward expansion. The US did not want to agree to this because of the lack of trust that they have on britain due to the amount of impressment they would impose on America. The Americans believed it to be very sketchy because britain is coming for help to the America when they have one of the strongest army and naval parties in the world while America does not really have one. This caused skepticism on the british and thus made the US not able to trust britain and reject the proposal imposed by the British foreign minister.
The text authors contend that "the removal of Lincoln [as president in 1864] was the last real hope for a Confederate victory." Do you agree? Why or why not?
Thesis: The authors of the text argued that removal of Lincoln as president was the last hope for Confederate victory because of how McClellan would have taken advantage of it. Paragraph: Lincoln being removed as the president would give the Confederates one last chance in belief that they are able to win the war because of them totally relying on Lincoln to lose his presidency. If Lincoln were to lose it, his opponent McClellan would have taken full advantage of it by then trying to go and make peace with the Southerners. He would do this due to McClellan being a copperhead in which meant that he preferred more of peace rather than the acts of war. Thus concluding that if Lincoln were to lose his presidency, McClellan would then try to find a compromise in which peace and agreements would be made by the North and the South which would then result into the Confederates winning the Civil War.
Why might it be argued that the building of the first transcontinental railroad to link the East and the West contributed to the wrenching apart of the North and the South?
Thesis: The building of the first transcontinental railroad to link the East and the West contributed to wrenching apart of North and South due to how it lead to disagreements between the North and the South. Paragraph: The senator from Illinois once again, Stephen Douglas created the Nebraska-Kansas Act in attempt to try and stop and contain slavery, however, only leading to a ignited act of sectionalism between the North and the South(391). What the Kansas-Nebraska Act would do is take out the 36'30 line that was the result of the Missouri Compromise. The Kansas Nebraska Act would allow the states the option to whether or not to allow slavery or not. In this case, the North do not support the act of slavery while the South uses slavery as the main source of labor(391). The building of the first transcontinental railroad wanted to try and maintain a northern route when creating the roads. The roads was built on to try and maintain control of the territory of Nebraska. However, once Nebraska became the free state due to the Missouri Compromise. This would then lead to disagreements between North and South.
Summarize the central argument of the Kentucky and Virginia resolutions. Explain why they are key documents in American history
Thesis: The central argument of the Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions were used as a counter to the alien laws and sedition acts and highly important due to how states would now have say with disagreements with passed laws. Paragraph: The Alien Laws and Sedition acts were laws that would hurt the Jeffersonian community. The Alien and Sedition Laws suggested that the years for one to become a american citizen would be 14 years. This would really hurt the Jeffersonian community because of how it will strongly decrease those who are for their pool of votes. In addition to the alien laws, the sedition acts approved was also a law in which no one can talk bad about the government without punishment. This was a problem due to how it violates one the amendments of the BoR. James Madison and Jefferson did not agree with these laws so therefore, they worked together, created a draft in which would become the Kentucky and Virginia resolutions These resolutions were used to legally allow states who saw laws passed were "unconstitutional" the right to nullify or invalidate laws. These were then used to nullify the alien and sedition acts. Not only was this a key document for the modern time during that time to nullify "unconstitutional" laws, but also to be used in the future.
Why did the communitarian movement flourish in the early nineteenth century? What were communitarians trying to prove? Why did most fail?
Thesis: The communitarian movement started to flourish early 19th century due to how communitarians believed in being able to improve and nourish society. Thus, allowing them to attempt and reform. Paragraph: The movement by the communitarians was an attempt to try and go make the country a much better. During this time, there was this place called a Utopian society. A Utopian society is a society in which everything is alright and is in it's best version that can be. Basically, this perfect world. That is exactly what communitarians were trying to prove. They were trying to emulate this by trying to remain sinless and make connections with each other much stronger. The belief in which society was more connected and have this sense of unity, the society would then be much stronger like the Utopian society being emulated by the communitarians. However, like most movements, they will not last forever or all that too long. Communitarians would allow men and other partners in a relationship to be able to go and cheat on and make love to others without penalty. This would then disrupt this Utopian environment that the communitarians would try to emulate. Thus, allowing it to fail in the end.
In what way was the Mexican War a "limited" war?
Thesis: The idea of the Mexican War was a "limited war" was because of how it was only used to try and obtain California, however there was an even bigger gain. Paragraph: The main reason for the Mexican War of 1846-1848 was because of President James Polk's belief in the "Manifest Destiny", God's calling of spreading America completely towards the West and one ocean of the Atlantic all the way to another ocean in the Pacific. Initially, all Polk wanted to do to gain the land of California was to go out and buy land, make some agreements, however, Mexico refused to and thus making the US fight for the California. Throughout this Mexican war, Mexico would lose much more land and US would gain lands such as Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, etc. Instead of just the US gaining only California, it also lead to these lands being under the US as a result.
What were the implications of the Dred Scott decision for a. the concept of popular sovereignty? b. the future of slavery in America?
Thesis: The implications of the Dred Scott Decision had allowed the Supreme Court to take complete control of popular sovereignty and deem it illegal, and slave owners able to claim their "property" and take them away. Paragraph: The Supreme Court was able to take control of the whole "popular sovereignty" term due to how they also saw it as an unfair act. In addition, the Northern States also have shown that they have a lot of passion and they are pro-abolitionment of slavery. Thus, the Supreme Court had deemed that popular sovereignty was an unfair and unjust way of determining slavery. In addition, the Dred Scott Decision allowed for the future of slavery to be an idea of expansion. Since the Supreme Court allowed for slave owners to bring their "property" aka as slaves, to wherever they wanted to bring them due to them being considered property. Since they were property, slave owners can bring them wherever they will want to bring them because there is no one in the state of law that would tell them to be able to do otherwise.
What was the importance of the Whiskey Rebellion?
Thesis: The importance of the Whiskey Rebellion was that it showed that the new constitution in replace of the first constitution, Articles, was that it showed to be stronger. Paragraph: The Whiskey Rebellion in Pennsylvania was a rebellion by farmers rebelling to the government due to the fact that they did not agree with excise taxes. Excise Taxes were the the taxations imposed by Hamilton in which there were taxes needed to pay when buying goods that were made in the United States. The farmers of PA did not agree with it, however, the government was not having any of it. The president at that time, George Washington would then send troops there to go and shut down the rebellion. This ultimately shows that the Constitution was much stronger in comparison to the Articles. A similar situation like this was under the government of the Articles was Shay's Rebellion. Shay's Rebellion was the rebellion of farmers that were against the taxes being imposed on them. Only difference is, under the Articles, nothing could have happened to stop this rebellion. Under the Articles, there were no armies, thus making it impossible for the government to do anything to stop it. Eventually, concluding that now the importance of the Whiskey Rebellion was a symbol that now the government is now stronger than it was compared to the Articles.
At the outset of the Civil War, the South confidently anticipated that King Cotton would guarantee it European intervention. Why didn't this intervention materialize? (
Thesis: The intervention/help of European kingdoms did not materialize due to the amount of Great Britain's stash on cotton already. Paragraph: Prior to the Civil War, GB had the South as their supplier for Cotton. Southern states saw this as an advantage for them because with them providing them ever so much cotton, they would help the South at any time as a return of favors when needed. However, GB had already stashed up on large amounts of cotton overtime so thus them not really needing to interact with them anymore. In addition, Cotton also has expanded all over the world. The southern states were not the only ones who could not produce them anymore, but so can India and Egypt. Lastly, the Emancipation proclamation demonstrated that the Civil War was basically an inside the nation battle as it was a battle of those who opposed slavery and those who were pro slavery. This would leave the impression on European countries that this was just an inside problem and that they had no business in getting involved with them.
Why did the issue of admitting Missouri to the Union precipitate a major national crisis? Why did the North and south each agree to the terms of the Missouri Compromise?
Thesis: The issue of admitting Missouri to the Union created national tension due to how it would create the imbalance of slave and free states, thus the creation of the Missouri Compromise to address this issue and to remain national equality among the states. Paragraph: Throughout the years in America, there were 11 free states and 11 slave states. However, with Missouri wanting to apply to become their own slave state out of the blue, that would create 11 free states and 12 slave states, thus creating a major national crisis due to the imbalance of nations. However, the Missouri compromise would be created to address this issue. The Missouri Compromise would be the idea in which there should always be a balance of slave and free states. This would be created by the 36'30' line in which in the future, new states that are formed, those above this imaginary line would be a free state and those below would be a slave state. This was created so that there would be balance among the nations and states.
Which do you think was the major cause of the War of 1812: western war hawk territorial expansion, British violations of American neutrality rights on the high seas, or the urge to uphold national honor and pride? Justify your selection.
Thesis: The major cause for the War of 1812 was the British violations of neutrality rights on the high seas. Paragraph: The main cause for the War of 1812 was because of how Britain was continuing to impress American soldiers. In response to this, America refuted with the embargo acts, but even though it was not so much of a success closing all trading connections, America was looked down upon even more. As they were looked down upon more, they were continued to be impressed in the water and ships were being attacked on the waters. In response to this, America was now done being picked on by Britain, now starting the war of 1812. This was now a war for the protection of America and their pride. That is why after the war of 1812, it gave America more sense of nationalism, increasing the pride for the country.
How did freed slaves respond to Reconstruction? How did freedom affect the economic, social, and political life of former slaves?
Thesis: The newly freed slaves responded to the Reconstruction in a ecstatic way when in regards to social and political life, but in regards to economic life, it was very complex Paragraph: In an economic perspective, the newly freed slaves was a bad experience for them. When the freed slaves were guaranteed freedom, they were promised 40 acres and a mule. However, this was not kept so now the freed slaves now needed to resort to a different way of gaining money. With them needing to gain money, they had resorted now to share cropping and tenant farming. This was then a work for these free blacks that gave labor to the whites while still receiving cash. However, it was not all bad economically. The freed slaves also benefitted from the Freemen's Bureau, which was an agency that gave them free food, education, clothes, and care. In addition to this positive, they also benefitted off in the social and political aspect of life. In the political aspect, the blacks were able to create what is called the Union League. The Union League helped them with the reconstruction that helped them build schools, churches, etc. In addition in the social aspect, it was also a positive. These would be the creation of the 14th and the 15th amendment. These Amendments allowed for blacks to be a US citizen if born in the United States and able to have equal rights, such as being able to vote.
The text's authors claim that on the eve of the Civil War, "a truly continental economy had emerged...[in which] the principle of division of labor...applied on a national scale." Briefly explain the operation of this "national" economy and its political implications.
Thesis: The operation of this national economy was created due to how all areas within the US being North, South, and West all supporting each other economically. Paragraph: The northern, southern, and western parts of the US created this "continental economy" due to how they created this system in which they all support and relied each other economically. The Northern parts of the US provided many various resources such as goods to trade with and distribute. The Southern parts of the US provided many crops like cotton to provide to the Northern and Western parts. Lastly, the western parts provided many various types of industry and food to provide for the other nations. In conclusion, the US created this new method of all supporting each other economically by supporting each other through the strength of what each part of the US possesses.
It has been argued that both Britain and the North were tied to the South with "cotton threads." Explain.
Thesis: The phrase of both Britain and the North being tied to the South was used accordingly because of how American trade and economy was based off on the production and the distribution of cotton. In addition, making the cotton industry to be kept as a flourished as possible because it was the money source for both Britain and the North. Paragraph: The cotton industry would impact both Britain and the North in a very important way. The North solely depended on the South to import raw cotton goods in order to keep progressing and gain money. In addition, Britain also were in high reliance of the Cotton Industry. Both Britain and North were in high reliance on the cotton industry so much, that if anything were to happen and all of a sudden stop this, it would actually hurt their economy negatively and thus making their economies suffer. Thus, concluding that the term "tied to the south with cotton threads" was used accordingly because of how heavily these two relied on the cotton industry and actually determining if their economy would flourish or not depending on how well the cotton industry would be doing.
Why was the proposal for colonizing blacks back to Africa attractive to many whites, even as late as the onset of the Civil War?
Thesis: The proposal of colonizing blacks or African Americans back to Africa was so attractive to the whites because of how whites viewed blacks as less than human and unhuman like. Thus, them not wanting to live with them and therefore wanting to colonize blacks back to Africa. Paragraph: The proposal of sending black back to Africa was a very popular idea and had mutual interest among the white community. This is because of how whites saw blacks as the causes for many problems that were in the United States at the time. These problems consisted of overpopulation, amount of free black slaves, and discrimination in the United States. The white community in the United States had this belief that the United States was basically being run by the amount of blacks and African Americans in the United States. However, the whites believed that if they were sent back to Africa, this would get rid of the overpopulation situation in America. Secondly, the amount of free black slaves also looked to be like a problem through the eyes of the white community. Whites would show hostility towards the blacks for no reason at all. The whites would tear down any dream that the blacks would have by actually taking away their American Dream of actually working consistently and providing for themselves and families. Lastly, whites also wanted to send back all blacks back to Africa because of how they believed it would also fix the discrimination issue. Blacks would be seen as nothing else, but only workers to do things so that whites would not want to do them. However, when free black slaves would not be working, discrimination would occur to them as again they were seen as less than human and unhumanlike. Thus, concluding that whites were so intrigued to bring blacks back to Africa.
-
Thesis: The purpose of the passage "Tariff of Abominations", it's sole purpose was to protect American Industries against their counterparts, Europeans. Paragraph: As a result of the Tariff of 1828, Northeast, Western, and other parts of the country except the southerners. The southern part of the US are used to the free market method in which they can import, export, manufacture goods freely and whenever they wanted to. However, The Tariff of 1828 disrupted their economy as no profits were able to be made within southern states. This made southerners have a bad attitude towards this tariff law. In addition to hurting their economy by trading, it hurt them in terms of slavery which the south believed that slaves prices would go up which made slavery in the south come to an end.
Why did late-nineteenth-century presidential elections tend to focus on the personalities of the candidates rather than on "real" issues?
Thesis: The reason why the 19th century election did tend to focus on the personalities of the candidates rather than the "real issues" because of how both of the parties presented the same similar problems. Paragraph: The two major parties presented in the late nineteenth century were the Democrats and the Republicans. However, they both had the same political views when it came to the points of tariffs, currency, etc. Therefore the presidential election between the two now geared towards their personalities as candidates rather than their political views as both parties had similar views. As a result, the citizens when voting resorted to voting with how their personalities and strategies to choose the president. Thus, the voters then focused on the personality of the candidates to see who is more fitting to be the next president rather than the views due to them facing the same and similar political views.
The text authors call the Emancipation Proclamation a "proclamation without emancipation." Why? Explain the role of the proclamation in the formulation of Northern strategy and war goals.
Thesis: The role of proclamation in formulation of Northern Strategy and War goals were to go out seek revenge on those southern states who actually supported secession, but he had no power in territories to do so. Paragraph: The Emancipation Proclamation's purpose was to free those who were slaves still in slave states and from those who wanted to go and secede from the Union. The authors' of claiming it to be more a proclamation without an emancipation is true because of how Lincoln did not necessarily have the valid power to accept this due to the tension between the South and the North. During the time of Lincoln trying to live by the emancipation proclamation, it was not followed as the South knew it would hurt the economy for them. It was not until the end of the Civil War that the free slave laws would occur. Thus, concluding that it was not until after the end of the Civil War, the free slave laws of the Emancipation Proclamation would occur and the 13th amendment being passed. The 13th amendment stated that if one was to be born in the United States, they are deemed to be legal citizens of the United States.
Explain the seeming paradox that at a time when successful presidential candidates were usually "bland" and "forgettable," public enthusiasm for election campaigning was at an all-time high.
Thesis: The seeming paradox in the late nineteenth century presidential election was due to the people because of how society were now being loyal to their respective parties. Paragraph: In the late nineteenth century many presidents were coming and going and were serving in very short time. This would lead them to being forgettable terms as they were really short. This would be the case because of how the voters now in society were now extremely loyal to their respective parties. It was like this because of how if you were born a Democrat, you would usually turn to be a Democrat and remain loyal. In addition, this would allow people to be a part of the Spoils System as they would use this to make them vote for the president. The people knew if they were to support the president a lot they would then be possibly rewarded to the point in which they would get a position in office. Thus, the paradox would be due to extreme loyalty and spoiled voters.
Make a list of the combination of factors that produced the growth and industrialization of the American economy in the late nineteenth century. Then pick two factors that you think were especially important. Explain your choice.
Thesis: The two major factors that produced the growth of the American Economy in the late nineteenth century are the Railroads and the Telegraphs. Paragraph: One of the first major developments of the late nineteenth century was the continuing development of railroads. The development of railroads can be argued that it is the greatest phenomenon in American History as it provided many benefits. One of the major benefits that it provided was not only for faster transport, but it opened for more economic opportunities. It allowed for economic opportunities because it allowed trade and business transports that would lead to economic expansion. Another major development was the telegraphs. Telegraphs just like the railroad allowed for communication that will lead to economic opportunities. As the telegraph allowed for communication from places far from reach, it allowed for communication that would close deals for trade. These two are both important as Americans at the time were seeing themselves needing to be more communicative and use of transport were growing.
Why were women prominent in the reform crusades of the early nineteenth century? What contribution did they make to social reform?
Thesis: Women started to become more prominent or important in the reform of the crusades of the early nineteenth century due to how women during the time were now actually starting to have a sense of care to what their position or role was in society. Paragraph: Before the nineteenth century women were considered to rather only be house wives. This job for them was to cook food, take care of kids, and anything else that would go under taking care of the household. This is what women were portrayed to be. Most girls would not get a high education due to society believing it would be too much for them and actually only hurt them. However, in the start of the early nineteenth century, women now started to reject this and actually were now starting to fight for their position and thus, making themselves more a part of society. Many women like Dorothea Dix and Florence Nightingale all had a contribution towards this social reform. Dorothea Dix's contributions to this social reform was that she was a unitarian and that she fought for women's rights for those who had mental illnesses so they can get proper treatment. Florence Nightingale in the other hand was also a unitarian that would use her experience of nursing and helping the wounded in Europe during the Crimean Wars, and eventually brought it to America. In conclusion, these two figures set the bar that allowed women to feel inspired and make them believe that they can do more than just be a housewife. Thus, allowing them to take partition in this social reform.
Why was tobacco called the poor man's crop and sugar a rich man's crop
To tobacco was called a poor man's crop because it only took a few workers to harvest . It was also easy for a family to harvest so it did not require much effort in producing these crops the crops.
Many historians argued that without the French aid the colonies could never have won their independence. Do you agree or disagree and why
Without the French the Americans could not have won the war nor their independence from Britain
In what ways was it a democratic document in writing what ways did ir guard against democracy
democracy is a government by the people and it is where the people have the freedom to choose and speak in the constitution was a democratic document because it allowed people to vote for the representative and guarded against democracy but ensuring the constitutional right of the people.