Key Concepts in Antebellum America

This set of flashcards includes key concepts related to the economic and social transformations during the Antebellum period in the United States.

Cotton Kingdom

A term describing the southern economy that heavily relied on cotton production and slavery.

Nativism

A political movement favoring the interests of native inhabitants over those of immigrants, often associated with anti-Irish and anti-Catholic sentiments.

Second Great Awakening

A religious revival movement in the early 19th century that emphasized individual self-improvement and social reform.

Cult of Domesticity

A prevailing value system among the upper and middle classes during the 19th century emphasizing women's roles as pious, submissive homemakers.

American System

An economic plan proposed by James Madison involving a national bank, protective tariffs, and federally funded improvements.

The Panic of 1819

The first major financial crisis in the United States, which led to widespread economic hardship and distrust of banks.

Missouri Compromise

A legislative agreement in 1820 that aimed to balance the power of slave and free states by admitting Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state.

Enfranchisement

The granting of the right to vote to a group; during this period, 90% of white males were granted suffrage.

Stereotyping of the Irish

Negative perceptions imposed on the Irish immigrants, portraying them as criminals and job thieves.

Power over the family

A component of the Cult of Domesticity which described women's influence within the household.