American Revolution and Nationalism Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering concepts of nationalism, the American Revolution, democratic ideals, and historical symbolism from the lecture notes.

Relationship to Land

A connection based on a shared connection to a specific geographic territory, landscape, or environment (e.g., Indigenous land stewardship).

Ethnic Nation (Japan)

A highly homogeneous population where national identity is deeply connected to shared ancestry and heritage.

Kurds

An ethnic group in the Middle East with a shared heritage, language, and culture, but without their own official nation-state.

Somalis

A group defined by shared ethnicity, language, and clan systems across East Africa.

Ultra-nationalism

Extreme devotion to one's nation above all others, often portraying other nations as inferior or enemies.

Ethnic Cleansing & Genocide

Extreme attempts to purge or eliminate a specific group to create an ethnically "pure" nation (e.g., the Rwandan Genocide, the Holocaust, the Yugoslav Wars).

Territorial Aggression

Invading neighbor countries using historical or ethnic claims to justify expansion.

The 13 Colonies / British Colonists

European settlers who migrated to North America, established local governments, and developed a distinct colonial identity separate from Britain.

"First Builders" of the American Republic

The political figures in classical American national narratives, such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin.

Absolute Monarchy

King George III's total authority and centralized rule.

Taxation Without Representation

Being taxed by the British Parliament without having any elected members representing colonial interests.

Feudal Systems & Hereditary Privilege

A system where status, power, and rights were decided by birth or noble title.

"Mob Rule" (Tyranny of the Majority)

Concerns that giving power to the common people would lead to instability, chaos, or emotional decision-making.

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that political power comes from the people, not a king.

Civic Nationalism

Nationalism promoted based on shared values of liberty and equality.

Contradictions of the "New Democracy"

Restricted voting initially to land-owning white men, and allowed the continuation of chattel slavery and the displacement of Indigenous peoples despite claiming "all men are created equal."

"Don't Tread on Me" (The Gadsden Flag)

A flag featuring a coiled timber rattlesnake ready to strike on a yellow field, which historically symbolized the unity of the 13 Colonies standing up against British tyranny.

Timber Rattlesnake Symbolism

Represented a creature native to North America, harmless unless provoked, that gives a fair warning (rattle) before striking but deals a deadly bite if stepped on; warns that while colonies prefer peace, they will defend individual liberties fiercely if threatened.