8th grade comp

Colonization

The establishment of territories by European powers for resources and trade, particularly by England, Spain, and France.

Declaration of Independence

Document adopted in 1776 asserting the colonies' right to self-govern and break from British rule.

Constitutional Convention

Meeting in 1787 where the current U.S. Constitution was drafted and ratified, replacing the Articles of Confederation.

Civil War

Conflict from 1861 to 1865 over slavery and states' rights, leading to significant social and political changes in the U.S.

Reconstruction

Post-Civil War efforts to reintegrate Southern states and address the rights of freed slaves, facing resistance and challenges.

Mayflower Compact

An early agreement for self-governance established by the Pilgrims, serving as a precedent for democratic practices.

Virginia House of Burgesses

The first legislative assembly in the American colonies, representing the interests of the colonists.

Intolerable Acts

A series of punitive measures imposed by Britain that galvanized colonial opposition and unity prior to the American Revolution.

Louisiana Purchase

Land acquisition in 1803 that doubled the size of the United States and facilitated westward expansion.

Abolition Movement

Movement aimed at ending slavery in the U.S., led by figures such as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman.

Mercantilism

An economic policy favoring the mother country, leading to discontent among colonial interests due to trade restrictions.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the U.S., which proved ineffective, leading to the drafting of the current Constitution.

Proclamation of 1763

British declaration that restricted colonial expansion westward, causing resentment among colonists.

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units.

Checks and Balances

System ensuring that no branch of government exceeds its powers, maintaining balance among legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Fundamental Orders of Connecticut

Considered the first written constitution in America, outlining the structure of government in Connecticut.

Social Dynamics

The interactions and relationships within societies, influenced by factors like immigration, culture, and economic conditions.

Civil Disobedience

The act of peacefully refusing to obey certain laws as a form of protest, exemplified by the Boston Tea Party.

Suffrage Movement

Movement advocating for women's right to vote, emphasizing women's significant contributions to American society.

Judicial Review

The principle that allows courts to assess whether a law is in compliance with the Constitution, established by Marbury v. Madison.