History Notes

Proclamation Line of 1763

Established by Britain to prevent colonists from settling west of the Appalachian Mountains.

Stamp Act

A law requiring colonists to purchase special stamped paper for legal documents and printed materials.

Sons of Liberty

A group of colonists led by Samuel Adams who protested against British taxation.

Coercive Acts (Intolerable Acts)

Laws passed by Britain as punishment for the Boston Tea Party, closing Boston's port and enforcing martial law.

First Continental Congress

A gathering of colonial representatives to address grievances against British policies.

Battle of Lexington and Concord

The first military engagements of the Revolutionary War, marking the start of armed conflict.

Second Continental Congress

The assembly that established the Continental Army, led by George Washington.

Articles of Confederation

The first governing document of the US, establishing a weak central government.

Great Compromise

Agreed upon solution during the Constitutional Convention that created a bicameral legislature.

Federalists

Supporters of the Constitution advocating for a stronger national government.

Anti-Federalists

Opponents of the Constitution, favoring states' rights and a Bill of Rights.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution, guaranteeing individual liberties.

XYZ Affair

A diplomatic incident that led to an undeclared naval war between the U.S. and France.

Sedition Act

Legislation allowing the government to jail or fine individuals considered a threat.

Pinckney Treaty of 1794

An agreement between the U.S. and Spain granting navigation rights on the Mississippi River.

Jay Treaty of 1794

A treaty resolving issues between the U.S. and Britain, including military posts in the northwest territory.

Boston Massacre

March 5th 1770 event where British soldiers killed five colonists, escalating tensions.