Studied by 13 peopleTags & Description
Second Continental Congress (1775)
Description: Meeting of Delegates from the 13 colonies that united in support of the American Revolution. Assumed the normal function of a government.
Explanation: Established a Continental Army and elected George Washington as Commander in Chief. Drafted the Olive Branch Petition and sent it to King George III in hopes of reaching a peaceful resolution
Declaration of Rights and Grievances
Description: Was passed by the Stamp Act Congress. Claimed that American colonists were equal to all other British citizens, and stated that, without colonial representation in Parliament, Parliament could not tax the colonists
Explanation: The colonists asserted that they were British citizens. So, they deserve to be represented in Parliament before they are taxed. Believed they had a right to trial by jury
Suffolk Resolves
Description: A declaration on September 9, 1774, by the leaders of Suffolk County, MA, that rejected the Massachusetts Government Act. Ordered citizens to disobey the Intolerable Acts.
Explanation: Rejected the Massachusetts Government Act and resulted in boycotts of imported British goods. Was a protest of the Intolerable Acts, as the Colonists saw the acts as unconstitutional.
First Continental Congress (1774)
Description: Convened in Carpenter’s Hall in Philadelphia, PA. Delegates from 12 of the 13 British colonies met to discuss America’s future under the growing British aggression.
Explanation: The purpose was to allow colonies to consult over the common dispute with England. Was created in response to Parliament’s passage of the Intolerable Acts. Important because the Congress balanced the interest of the different colonies and also established itself as the official colonial liaison to Great Britain
Enlightment / John Locke
___________: Intellectual movement in 17th-18th century Europe. Emphasized reason, science, and individual rights. Challenged traditional authority and promoted freedom and equality.
____________: English philosopher during the Enlightenment. Advocated for natural rights, including life, liberty, and property. Influenced democratic ideals and the concept of social contract.
Sons and Daughters of Liberty
Description: American colonists who supported the patriot cause. Used threats, protests, and acts of violence to intimidate loyalists and make grievances clear to Parliament. Helped organize the Boston tea Party.
Explanation: An activist society to oppose British policies at the time of the American Revolution. Formed because colonists were furious that they were being taxed by a Parliament they had not elected.
Intolerable Acts
Description: 1774, a series of 4 laws was passed by the British Parliament to punish the colony of MA Bay for the Boston tea Party. Consisted of the Boston Port Bill, the MA Government Act, The Administration of Justice Act, and the Quartering Act.
Explanation: They were put into place to punish the colony of MA Bay for the Boston Tea Party, and to pay back the British for all of the damages done. Colonists felt these acts were unfair and boycotted/protested them
William Penn’s Holy Experiment
Description: A holy experiment that built on the Quaker ideals of religious tolerance, belief in the goodness of human nature, participatory government, and brotherly love. A Quaker colony in PA, a haven for people of all religion and national background.
Explanation: Intended to establish PA as a place for all people no matter religion or national backgrounds to live. An experiment as to where people would live in peace.
Quakers
Religious group known for their pacifism, simplicity, and equality. Founded in England in the 17th century by George Fox. Believe in the inner light, a direct connection to God. Practice silent worship and make decisions through consensus. Played a key role in the abolition of slavery and women's rights movements.
King Philip’s War
Description: A war that pitted Native Americans against English settlers and their Indian allies. Was one of the most bloodiest conflicts in US History. Was the Native-Americans last effort to avoid recognizing English authority and stop English settlement on their native lands.
Explanation: This was the Native Americans last attempt to drive out the colonists. The colonist wanting more and more land invoked the Natives even more to wanting them out. The immediate cause of the war was the trial and execution of three Metacom’s men by the colonists.
New England Confederation
Description: A federation of MA, Connecticut, New Haven, and Plymouth establish on May 1643 by delegates in those 4 Puritan Colonies. A military alliance
Explanation: A military alliance between the 4 Puritan colonies was formed to provide joint military support against attacks by the Native Americans, the French, and the Dutch.
Halfway Covenant
Description: A religious-politic solution adopted by the Puritans that allowed partial membership to people who have not yet connected into the Puritan Church(children)
Explanation: Lessened the difference the “elect” members of the church from the regular members. The Puritans wanted to expand their church, so they allowed children of members to join as-well.
Battle of Bunker Hill
Description: June 1775, the colonies militia set up fortifications on Breed’s Hill overlooking the city. The British attempted to dislodge them from the position with a frontal attack, and despite taking over the hill the British suffered severe casualties. First Major battle.
Explanation: The American colonists set up fortifications on Breed’s Hill. The British were trying to keep control of Boston and its valuable sea port, so they positioned the colonists with a frontal attacks
Minutemen/ Lexington and Concord
_____: First battles of the American Revolution in 1775. _____ were colonial militia ready to fight at a minute's notice. These battles marked the start of the war and showed colonial resistance against British rule.
Thomas Paine; Common Sense
A small 46 page pamphlet published in Philadelphia, written by a recent immigrant from England. Argued for independence by denouncing monarchy and challenging the logic behind the British empire. His combination of easy language, biblical references, and fiery rhetoric proved patent, and the pamphlet was quickly dispersed.
Declaration of Independence
Document written in 1776 by American colonists declaring independence from Britain. Outlined grievances against King George III, asserted natural rights, and justified the need for self-governance. Led to the American Revolutionary War and the eventual formation of the United States of America. Signed by 56 delegates, including Thomas Jefferson.
Olive Branch Petition
Description: Was drafted in the First Continental Congress to assure the King that colonists wanted to create harmony between England the Colonies. It emphasized the colonists loyalty to the British Crown and their rights as British citizens. Petition was dismissed by the king.
Explanation: The moderates wrote in an attempt of reconciliation. It was a last attempt to prevent formal war from being declared between the colonies and Britain.
Gaspee Incident: Boston Tea Party (1773)
Description: A political protest on Dec 1773. at Griffins Wharf in Boston, MA. Colonists dumped 342 chests into the harbor, that was imported by the British East India Company
Explanation: American colonists dumped tea into the Boston harbor because they were frustrated and angry at Britain for imposing “taxation without representation” when Parliament passed the Tea Act. Dozens of men disguised themselves asWharfs, and the Boston Tea Party spiked numerous other smaller tea parties throughout 1774.
Boston Massacre (1770)
Event in American history where British soldiers fired into a crowd of colonists, resulting in the deaths of five people. Sparked outrage and increased tensions between the American colonies and Britain, leading to the American Revolution.
Committee of Correspondence
Description: A long lasting institution that became a key communication system during the early years of the Revolution. They promoted manufacturing in the colonies and advised Colonists not to buy imported British goods.
Explanation: Were to keep each other (colonies) informed of resistance efforts throughout the colonies. They were illegal governments set up to fight agaisnt British rule.
John Dickenson: “Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania”
Description: A series of 14 letters, widely published in late 1767 and early 1768, that counsels both leaders on both sides of the Atlantic on the economic folly and unconstitutionally of new British revenue laws that ignore the rights of Englishmen living in the colonies
Explanation: The letters of John Dickinson helped turn opinion against the Townshend Acts. Says all taxes laid upon the colonies are put in place to enrich Britain.
Stamp Act of 1765
Description: The Act was an “internal” law that required documents to be printed on paper that had been stamped to show the duty had been paid. Affected groups like lawyers, college graduates.
Explanation: The British passed the Act to help pay for British troops stationed in the colones during the Seven years war. The colonies were being taxed directly by the King and not by representatives. Led to popular resistance and protests, boycotts
Sugar Act of 1764
Description: Was Parliament’s Second major action toward North America. It provided a strongly enforced tax on sugar, molasses, and other products imported into the American colonies from non-British sources.
Explanation: Was put into place to stop widespread smuggling molasses in New England by cutting the duty in half and increasing enforcements. Colonists responded with protests.
Proclamation Act of 1763
Description: Did not allow colonists to settle West of the Appalachian Mountains. Colonists protested and demanded access to the territory. Britain first post ar action targeting North America
Explanation: The king attempted to limit costly wars with Native Americans by issuing this. The colonists protested and demanded access to territory that they had fought alongside the British for.
Fundamental Orders of Connecticut (1639)
Description: Were adopted by the Connecticut council. Stated the powers and limits of the government, and became a model for future state constitutions.
Explanation: An early agreement between Hartford, Wethersfield, and Windsor established a representative government based on the example of a number of MA colonies. Arguably the very first constitution of the American colonies
Halfway Covenant
Religious agreement in 1662 that allowed partial church membership for those who hadn't experienced a conversion but were moral and attended church.
Corporate colonies
Settlements established by companies for economic gain and trade expansion. These colonies were governed by the company rather than a traditional government, allowing for direct control over resources and profit. They played a significant role in the colonization of various regions, such as the British East India Company's colonies in India.
Antinomianism
Description: Teaches believers have a license “to sin” and that future sons don’t require repentance. It is an opposition to the new law and religiously inspired rejection of moral, ritual, and other accepted rules and standards
Explanation: rejects laws or legalism. Rejects the notion of obedience as legalistic because to them the good life flowed from the inner working of the Holy Spirit
Roger Williams; Anne Hutchinson
Flashcard 1: ______- Early American colonist and founder of Rhode Island. Advocated for religious freedom and separation of church and state. Left the Puritans from religious differences, he felt they were intolerant.
Flashcard 2: _________ - Puritan dissenter in Massachusetts Bay Colony. Challenged religious authorities and promoted women's rights. Exiled for her beliefs. Was banished because she disagreed with a minister. Felt they should be able to talk to god directly.
Both ran away from the Puritans in the 1630s. They were banished from the MA Bay.
Indentured Servant; Head Right System
_________: A person who exchanged labor for a fixed period in exchange for passage to the New World. They were not free and had limited rights.
__________: A land distribution system in colonial America where settlers were granted land if they brought indentured servants to work on it.
Bacon’s Rebellion
Description: This was an armed rebellion held by Virginia settlers from 1676 to 1677. Led by Nathaniel Bacon against colonial governor William Berkely. After Berkely refused Bacon’s request to drive out the Native Americans
Explanation: Was the first popular uprising in the American colonies. Was a local dispute between the Doeg Indians on the Potomac River
Royal Colonies
Description: A colony that was administered by the Crown. Usually represented by a governor that was appointed by the British. Through the goveneor, the king controlled land grants, sales, taxation, and the law
Explanation: A colony directed by the crown through a governor and council. They were established to generate wealth for England. Many colonies turned royal due to lack of stability within colonies government
Asiento System
Description: Was a contract granted by the Spanish Crown to an individual/company allowing the holder exclusive rights in the slave trade with Spain’s American colonies
Explanation: Was a way by the Spanish to ensure a legal supply of Africans to the New World. The Spanish did not have direct access or the ability to transport African slaves. So the system was how they got slaves to the Americas
Columbian Exchange
Description: A trading system between Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. New plants, animals, diseases, people, and ideas would be introduced from country to country. Stated in the 15th century
Explanation: Resulted from European’s exploration, conquest, and settlement of the Americas. Trade of goods would be overseas, and mix the Old and New World goods
Encomienda System
Description: This was a labor system instituted by the Spanish Crown in the American colonies. A Spanish encomendro was granted a number of native laborers who would pay tributes to him in exchange for his protection
Exploration: Introduced by the Spanish Crown as a way to establish a labor force in the colonies and convert Indigenous people to Catholicism. In practice, the ________ exploited and abused indigenous people for free labor, and thus led to various revolts and protests by indigenous people
Lord Baltimore; Act of Toleration (1649)
Description: A law that passed on April 21, 1649, granted religious freedom to all non-Chrsitians in Maryland. It forbade residents from referring to another religion in a disparaging way.
Explanation: Was put into place to allow religious groups to practice their religion without being punished. Lord Baltimore hoped to create a colony that was free from religious persecution
Corporate Colonies
Colonies established by companies for economic gain
Companies had control over land, resources, and governance
Examples include Jamestown and Plymouth
Colonists worked for the company and shared profits
Corporate colonies played a role in early colonization of America
Proprietary Colonies
Description: Grants of land in the form of a charter on a license to rule, for individuals or groups. Governors were appointed by a Lord proprietor. Often had more freedoms and liberties.
Explanation: Were governed by a Lord proprietor. They were used to settle areas rapidly with British subjects, at the proprietors expense during the costly settlement years
Georgia; James Oglethorpe
Founder of the colony of Georgia in 1732. He established it as a haven for debtors and a buffer between Spanish Florida and the English colonies. Oglethorpe envisioned a society based on equality and banned slavery in Georgia. He also established a strong defense against Spanish attacks, including the construction of Fort Frederica.
Mercantilism
Economic system in 16th-18th century Europe. Focused on accumulating wealth through exports and colonies. Believed in government intervention, protectionism, and favorable trade balances.
Navigation Acts
Description: Acts of Parliament that were intended to promote the self-sufficiency of the British Empire by restricting colonial trade to England and decreasing dependence on foreign imported goods
Explanation: A long series of English laws that developed, promoted, and regulated English shops, shipping, trade, and commerce between other countries and with its own colonies. It prevented the colonies from shipping any goods anywhere without first stopping in an English port to have their cargo loaded and unloaded.
Dominion of New England
Description: A union of several New England colonies formed by King James II of England in 1686 and was part of a larger plan to tighten the British administration of the colonies. Formed a megacolony and accomplished three purposes: Strengthened colonial defense from Native American Attacks
Explanation: Was created by King James to give him greater control over the American colonies. Gave him more power over colonial trade, religion, and manufacturing.
Triangular Trade
Description: the three-legged route that made up the Atlantic trade. Trade flowed to and from three general areas on either side of the Atlantic Ocean. (Europe, Africa, and the Americas)
Explanation: S system of transatlantic trade in the 16th century between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. The first leg of the trip was sending European products from Europe to Africa, where they were traded for slaves. Then, the slaves were transported to the Americas and sold.
Slave Trade/Middle Passage
The brutal transportation of enslaved Africans across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas, known as the Middle Passage. It was a horrific journey marked by overcrowded ships, disease, and violence. Millions of Africans were forcibly taken from their homes and sold into slavery, enduring unimaginable suffering and loss of life.
Great Awakening; Jonathan Edwards; George Whitefield
______: Religious revival in 18th century America, emphasizing personal conversion and emotional experiences. Led to increased religious fervor and new denominations.
__________: American preacher during the Great Awakening. Known for his sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," which emphasized God's wrath and the need for repentance.
__________: English preacher who played a key role in the Great Awakening. Known for his powerful sermons and ability to captivate large crowds.
Cotton Mather
Description: Prominent Puritan minister during the Salem Witch Trials. Known for his influential sermons and writings. Played a role in the conviction of accused witches.
Explanation: One of the most influential Puritan ministers of his day. Considered an influential writer due to the volume of his works, as well as his standing in the community and his persuasive abilities. prolific writer
Benjamin Franklin
American polymath and Founding Father. Known for his work as a scientist, inventor, writer, and diplomat. Famous for his experiments with electricity and the invention of the lightning rod. Wrote "Poor Richard's Almanack" and played a key role in drafting the U.S. Constitution.
John Peter Zenger case French and Indian War
Description: The governor of New York secured an indictment of troublemaking against John Peter Zeger for publishing articles criticizing him. At this time in history and based on English common law, truth was not a defense for libel. But after a compelling defense by Andrew Hamilton, a jury acquitted Zenger. This became a symbol of freedom of the press
A German printer and journalist in New York City. Printed the New York Weekly Journal and was accused of libel in 1743, by the royal governor of NY.
Albany Plan of Union (1754)
Description: A meeting of representatives from several colonies called by the British government in an attempt to improve relations with Native American tribes and defend against the French
Explanation: This Congress consisted of 20 representatives form the American colonies to plan how the colonies could defend themselves. Proposed by Benjamin Franklin, suggested the Plan to unite the colonies to assist in the colonies’ defense. Parliament rejected the plan.
Salutary Neglect
Description: the unofficial British policy where parliamentary rules and laws were loosely or not enforced on the American colonies and trade. This policy expanded freedom when it came to trade and self government, and resulted in colonial growth and prosperity
Explanation: Is the British policy of letting the colonies ignore most of the British Laws. British would pass laws to regulate trade in the colonies, but they did not do much to enforce them. This policy broke after the French and Indian war and needed the colonies to start paying taxes and following their laws.
Pontiac’s Rebellion (1763)
Description: An armed conflict between the British Empire and Algonquin, Iroquoian, Muskogean, and Siouan-speaking Native Americans following the Seven Years’ War. Was undertaken to drive the British out of the Ohio Country and the land around the Great Lakes
Explanation: Native Americans, alarmed by policies imposed by British General Jeffrey Amherst, attacked a number of British forts and settlements. It was the largest alliance of Native American nations to join to gather against the common enemy, the British.
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