Colonial American History: Key Concepts

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts and terminology from the lectures on American colonial history.

Tribute colonies

Colonies where Europeans capitalized on pre-existing systems of tribute and labor discipline, particularly using Indigenous labor and wealth from conquered empires.

Encomienda system

A labor system in Spanish colonies granting landholders the right to extract labor and tribute from Indigenous peoples in exchange for protection and Christian instruction.

Caste system

A hierarchical system of racial classification that emerged in Latin America, often defining social status based on race.

Mercantilism

An economic theory promoting government regulation of the economy to enhance state power by limiting imports and maximizing exports.

Joint-stock company

A business entity where resources are pooled from multiple investors to fund xqcolonial ventures, exemplified by the Virginia Company.

Chattel slavery

The ownership of human beings as property, where enslaved individuals are considered goods.

Neo-European colonies

Colonies that aimed to replicate the economies and social structures familiar to the settlers, notably established by the Dutch, French, and English.

Mayflower Compact

A self-governing agreement created by the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower, establishing a form of government in their new colony.

Predestination

A theological doctrine embraced by Puritans, asserting that God has predetermined who will be saved and who will be damned.

Bacon's Rebellion

An uprising led by Nathaniel Bacon in 1676 against the Virginia governor, fueled by discontent over political corruption and land policies.