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Annapolis Convention
A 1786 meeting of delegates from five states to discuss trade and economic issues, which ultimately led to the call for the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia.
George Washington
The first President of the United States and a key leader during the Revolutionary War. He presided over the Constitutional Convention and supported the new Constitution.
Ben Franklin
A Founding Father known for his diplomatic skills and contributions to the Constitution. He helped bridge differences among delegates at the Constitutional Convention.
James Madison
The "Father of the Constitution," he played a crucial role in its drafting and the Bill of Rights. He was also a key author of The Federalist Papers.
Demographic of Constitutional Convention Members
The delegates were predominantly white, male, wealthy, and educated. Many were experienced politicians or military leaders, reflecting elite interests in shaping the new government.
Nationalists
A group advocating for a stronger national government during the period following the Articles of Confederation. They sought to address weaknesses in governance and promote unity among the states.
Virginia Plan
A proposal at the Constitutional Convention for a strong national government with a bicameral legislature based on population, favoring larger states.
New Jersey Plan
A proposal for a unicameral legislature with equal representation for each state, favoring smaller states and maintaining the structure of the Articles of Confederation.
Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise)
An agreement that created a bicameral legislature, combining elements of both the Virginia and New Jersey Plans. It established proportional representation in the House and equal representation in the Senate.
Provisions of the Constitution
The Constitution outlines the structure of the federal government, including the separation of powers, checks and balances, and the rights of states and citizens.
3/5ths Rule
A compromise that counted enslaved people as three-fifths of a person for representation and taxation purposes, impacting the political power of slaveholding states.
Federalists and Anti-Federalists
Federalists supported the new Constitution and a strong central government, while Anti-Federalists opposed it, fearing it would erode states’ rights and individual liberties.
The Federalist
A series of essays written by Hamilton, Madison, and John Jay promoting the ratification of the Constitution. They provided arguments in favor of a strong national government.
Constitutional Ratification
The process by which the Constitution was approved by nine states in 1788, leading to its implementation. The ratification debates highlighted the tensions between Federalists and Anti-Federalists.
Bill of Rights
The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1791, which guarantee individual liberties and limit government power, addressing concerns raised by Anti-Federalists during ratification.
George Mason
A Founding Father and prominent Anti-Federalist who advocated for individual rights and opposed the Constitution’s initial lack of a Bill of Rights. He authored the Virginia Declaration of Rights.
Judiciary Act of 1789
A law that established the federal judiciary system, including the Supreme Court, federal district courts, and circuit courts, helping to organize the judicial branch of the new government.
Strict vs. Loose Constructionist
Strict constructionists interpret the Constitution narrowly, limiting the federal government’s powers to those explicitly stated. Loose constructionists believe in a broader interpretation, allowing for implied powers.
Hamilton’s Economic Plan
A series of proposals by Alexander Hamilton aimed at stabilizing the American economy, including federal assumption of state debts, the creation of a national bank, and tariffs to protect U.S. industries.
National Bank
Established in 1791, the First Bank of the United States was proposed by Hamilton to stabilize the economy, manage government funds, and issue currency. It sparked debates over federal vs. state power.
DC Compromise (the room where it happened)
A deal struck in 1790 between Hamilton and Jefferson (with Madison), where the federal capital was moved to Washington, D.C., in exchange for support of Hamilton's economic plan, particularly the assumption of state debts.
Whiskey Rebellion
A 1794 uprising in response to an excise tax on whiskey, which farmers viewed as unfair. The rebellion tested the federal government's ability to enforce its laws and demonstrated the power of the new government.
Democratic-Republicans
A political party founded by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison in opposition to the Federalists. They advocated for states’ rights, agrarian interests, and a strict interpretation of the Constitution.
French Revolution’s Impact and Role of U.S.
The French Revolution deepened political divides in the U.S., with Federalists opposing its radicalism and Democratic-Republicans supporting it. The U.S. chose neutrality despite its 1778 alliance with France.
Neutrality Proclamation (1793)
Issued by Washington, it declared U.S. neutrality in the conflict between Britain and France, shaping U.S. foreign policy of avoiding European entanglements.
Problems with Britain (1790s)
Britain seized American ships trading with France, maintained forts in the Northwest, and supported Native American resistance, straining U.S.-British relations.
John Jay
Chief Justice and diplomat who negotiated the Jay Treaty with Britain, which aimed to resolve post-Revolutionary War tensions but was unpopular in the U.S.
Citizen Genet (1793)
French diplomat Edmond Genet, who tried to recruit American support for France's war against Britain, violating U.S. neutrality and causing diplomatic tensions.
Jay’s Treaty (1794)
Treaty with Britain resolving some post-Revolutionary War issues, but seen by many as favoring Britain over France, causing domestic controversy.
Pinckney Treaty (1795)
Treaty with Spain that allowed U.S. access to the Mississippi River and New Orleans, resolving border disputes and opening up the western frontier.
Washington’s Farewell Address (1796)
Washington’s speech advising the U.S. to avoid permanent alliances and political parties, setting the tone for future U.S. foreign policy.
Election of 1796
The first contested presidential election in the United States, where John Adams (Federalist) defeated Thomas Jefferson (Democratic-Republican). This election marked the emergence of political parties and set a precedent for peaceful transitions of power.
Adam's’ Presidency
John Adams served as the second president from 1797 to 1801. His presidency was marked by foreign challenges, notably the XYZ Affair, tensions with France, and the passage of the Alien and Sedition Acts, which aimed to suppress dissent against the government.
XYZ Affair
A diplomatic incident in 1797-1798 where American diplomats were approached by French agents (referred to as X, Y, and Z) who demanded bribes for negotiations. This led to an undeclared naval war known as the Quasi-War and increased anti-French sentiment in the U.S.
Alien and Sedition Acts
A series of laws passed in 1798 aimed at restricting immigration and limiting free speech, particularly targeting critics of the Federalist government. The Sedition Act made it a crime to publish false or malicious statements about the government.
Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions
Political statements drafted in 1798-1799 by Jefferson and Madison in response to the Alien and Sedition Acts. They argued that states could nullify federal laws deemed unconstitutional, laying groundwork for states' rights arguments.
Jeffersonians vs. Hamiltonians
A political conflict between the Democratic-Republicans, led by Thomas Jefferson, advocating for agrarianism and states’ rights, and the Federalists, led by Alexander Hamilton, promoting a strong central government and industrialization.
Election of 1800
A highly contentious election that resulted in Thomas Jefferson defeating incumbent John Adams. The election was significant for the peaceful transfer of power and established the precedent for future political transitions in a polarized environment.
Sally Hemmings
An enslaved woman of mixed race owned by Thomas Jefferson. Her relationship with Jefferson and their children has become a focal point in discussions about slavery, race, and the contradictions in Jeffersonian ideals.
Midnight Judges
Judges appointed by John Adams in the final hours of his presidency as part of the Judiciary Act of 1801. This move aimed to secure Federalist influence in the judiciary, which led to political battles with the incoming Jefferson administration.
Marbury vs. Madison
A landmark Supreme Court case in 1803 that established the principle of judicial review, allowing the Court to declare laws unconstitutional. This case arose from a dispute over the appointment of "midnight judges."
John Marshall
The fourth Chief Justice of the United States (1801-1835), whose rulings established the power of the Supreme Court and the principle of judicial review, shaping the role of the judiciary in the American government.
Barbary States and Tripolitan War
Refers to a series of conflicts between the U.S. and North African states (Barbary States) in the early 19th century, particularly the First Barbary War (1801-1805) over piracy and tribute demands, highlighting early American foreign policy challenges.
Napoleon, Haiti, and the Sale of Louisiana
Napoleon's loss in Haiti (Saint-Domingue) during the Haitian Revolution weakened French colonial power and led to the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, where the U.S. acquired vast territories from France, doubling its size.
Louisiana Purchase
The 1803 acquisition of the Louisiana Territory from France for $15 million, which significantly expanded U.S. territory and raised questions about constitutional authority and the expansion of slavery.
Lewis and Clark
The expedition (1804-1806) led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, commissioned by Jefferson to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and find a route to the Pacific, documenting geography, resources, and native cultures.
Aaron Burr
The third vice president of the U.S. under Thomas Jefferson, known for his duel with Alexander Hamilton in 1804, which resulted in Hamilton's death. Burr's later conspiracy to create a separate nation led to his trial for treason.
Problems with Neutrality and the Napoleonic Wars
The U.S. faced challenges maintaining neutrality during the Napoleonic Wars, as British and French interference with American shipping led to increased tensions and conflicts, influencing U.S. foreign policy.
Embargo Act
A law enacted in 1807 that prohibited American ships from trading with foreign nations in an attempt to pressure Britain and France to respect U.S. neutrality. It resulted in economic hardship and was widely unpopular.
Non-Intercourse Act
Passed in 1809, this act replaced the Embargo Act and allowed trade with all nations except Britain and France. It aimed to mitigate the economic impact of the embargo while still asserting U.S. rights.
Jeffersonian Ideals
The political philosophy associated with Thomas Jefferson, emphasizing agrarianism, individual liberty, limited government, and states’ rights, contrasting sharply with Federalist views of a strong central government and industrial economy.
Agrarian Republic
The vision promoted by Jefferson and his followers of a nation composed primarily of independent farmers, which they believed would ensure democracy, civic virtue, and economic independence as opposed to urbanization and industrialization.
James Madison
The fourth president of the United States (1809-1817) and a key architect of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. He is often called the "Father of the Constitution." His presidency was marked by the War of 1812.
Macon’s Bill Number 2 and its Effects
Passed in 1810, this bill lifted restrictions on trade with Britain and France but aimed to pressure them into respecting U.S. neutrality. It ultimately failed to achieve its goals, leading to increased tensions and contributing to the War of 1812.
Shawnees and Tecumseh
A Native American tribe led by Tecumseh, who sought to unite various tribes against U.S. expansion into their territories. Tecumseh's efforts to create a confederation of tribes were pivotal in resisting American encroachment.
War Hawks (Clay and Calhoun)
A group of young, nationalist congressmen, including Henry Clay and John C. Calhoun, who advocated for war against Britain in the years leading up to the War of 1812. They were motivated by issues such as trade restrictions and Native American alliances with the British.
Harrison and Tippecanoe
William Henry Harrison, governor of the Indiana Territory, defeated Tecumseh's forces at the Battle of Tippecanoe in 1811. This victory made Harrison a national hero and increased tensions leading to the War of 1812.
War of 1812 Outline
A conflict between the U.S. and Britain (1812-1815) over maritime rights, trade restrictions, and British support for Native American resistance. Key events included the burning of Washington, D.C., the defense of Fort McHenry, and the Battle of New Orleans.
Canada
The site of several key battles, including the failed American invasions during the War of 1812.
D.C.
The British captured and burned the capital in 1814, including the White House and Capitol.
Fort McHenry
Defended Baltimore from British bombardment in 1814; its defense inspired Francis Scott Key to write "The Star-Spangled Banner."
Battle of New Orleans
A significant U.S. victory led by Andrew Jackson in January 1815, occurring after the Treaty of Ghent was signed, but before news of the treaty reached America.
Andrew Jackson
The seventh president of the United States (1829-1837), known for his role as a military leader in the War of 1812, particularly at the Battle of New Orleans. His presidency marked the rise of populism and the Democratic Party.
Battle of Horseshoe Bend
A decisive battle in 1814 during the Creek War, where Andrew Jackson defeated the Red Stick Creeks, leading to significant land concessions by the tribe to the U.S. This victory was crucial in securing Jackson's reputation.
Treaty of Ghent
Signed in December 1814, this treaty ended the War of 1812 and restored pre-war boundaries, with no territorial gains for either side. It effectively ended hostilities but did not address the underlying issues that led to the war.
Hartford Convention
A meeting of New England Federalists in late 1814 to discuss grievances against the War of 1812 and propose constitutional amendments. Its perceived disloyalty and timing contributed to the decline of the Federalist Party after the war.
Growth of Nationalism
The increasing sense of national identity and unity among Americans after the War of 1812, characterized by pride in the nation, cultural independence, and a desire for a strong federal government to support economic development.
American System
An economic plan proposed by Henry Clay in the early 19th century that aimed to strengthen the U.S. economy through three key components: a strong banking system, protective tariffs to support American industry, and internal improvements (infrastructure) to facilitate trade.
Tariff of 1816
The first protective tariff in U.S. history, designed to protect American manufacturers from foreign competition by imposing high duties on imported goods. It aimed to encourage domestic production following the War of 1812.
Election of 1816
James Monroe, a Democratic-Republican, won the presidency largely unopposed, marking a period of political dominance for his party. This election signified the decline of the Federalist Party and the start of the "Era of Good Feelings."
Era of Good Feelings
A period (1817-1825) characterized by political harmony, economic growth, and national pride following the War of 1812. Although named for its general tranquility, it did see underlying tensions, especially regarding sectionalism and economic issues.
Panic of 1819
The first major economic crisis in the U.S., marked by widespread bank failures, foreclosures, and unemployment. It was caused by over-speculation in land and a decline in European demand for American goods, leading to a recession.
Push Factors of Westward Expansion
Economic hardship, land shortages, and political unrest in the East.
Pull Factors of Westward Expansion
Opportunities for land ownership, the promise of wealth (like gold), and the idea of Manifest Destiny encouraging Americans to settle westward.
Tallmadge Amendment
Proposed in 1819, it aimed to restrict the expansion of slavery in Missouri, leading to intense debates and conflict over the issue of slavery in new states.
Missouri Compromise (1820)
A solution that admitted Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state, establishing the 36°30' line as the boundary for slavery in the Louisiana Territory.
Daniel Webster
A prominent American statesman and orator, known for his strong support of the Union and his opposition to nullification and secession. He played a key role in debates over tariffs, the Bank of the United States, and slavery.
Andrew Jackson in Florida
In 1818, Andrew Jackson led military campaigns against the Seminole Indians in Florida, pursuing runaway slaves and Native Americans. His actions ultimately pressured Spain to cede Florida to the U.S.
Adams-Onís Treaty
Signed in 1819, this treaty between the U.S. and Spain ceded Florida to the United States and defined the boundary between U.S. territories and New Spain, resolving territorial disputes.
Russian Threat
In the early 19th century, Russia began expanding southward into North America, establishing claims in the Pacific Northwest. This expansion posed a threat to U.S. interests and contributed to American foreign policy.
Monroe Doctrine
A policy articulated by President James Monroe in 1823 stating that the Americas should be free from European colonial influence and that any attempt by European powers to colonize or interfere in the Western Hemisphere would be viewed as a hostile act. It became a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy.