AP US History: Native Cultures, European Contact, and Colonial Foundations

What are the main themes of Unit 1?

1. Native American power and agency in the Pre-Columbian Era 2. The unexpected success of British colonization 3. The role of Bacon's Rebellion in the institutionalization of slavery 4. The strengths and weaknesses of Puritan society 5. Relations between Native Americans and Puritans, and the beginnings of modern racism 6. The nature of the Triangular Trade and the concept of the 'Middle Ground'

What is national identity and how is it formed?

National identity is the collective identity shared by residents of a country, arising from human psychology's desire for in-group belonging, theorized to originate from ancient humans banding together for survival.

What advantages did Cortes have over the Aztecs during his invasion?

Cortes benefited from the Aztecs' predisposition to believe him due to their mythos, military technology advantages like guns and cannons, and his ability to replace their religious practices with Christianity.

How did Cortes's cultural background influence his treatment of the natives?

Cortes did not understand or care to understand the traditions of the Aztecs beyond their surface value, which affected his interactions with them.

Who wrote the primary source letter about Cortes's actions in the New World?

The letter was written by Cortes, the conquistador from Spain.

Who was the intended audience for Cortes's letter?

The letter was intended for the King of Spain and the Royal Court.

When was Cortes's letter written?

The letter was written in 1520 AD.

What was the purpose of Cortes's letter?

The purpose was to explain what they were doing in the New World and how far their plans had progressed.

Who was La Malinche?

La Malinche was a native Nahua woman who translated for Cortes and belonged to a tribe that was enemies with the Aztecs.

What are the steps for analyzing a primary source?

1. Describe the source (what it is about) 2. Analyze the source (ask why questions, infer and interpret) 3. Read it twice: first for context, then for interpretation and analysis.

What is historiography?

Historiography is the study of how history is written and interpreted.

What were James Mooney's contributions to the understanding of Native American populations?

James Mooney estimated the first inhabitants of the Americas in 1491 to be between 1.15 million.

What was Henry F. Dobyns's estimation of Native American populations?

Henry F. Dobyns estimated the Native American population in 1491 to be between 90 to 112 million.

What impact did European diseases have on Native Americans?

Native Americans were immunologically unprepared for European diseases, leading to a demographic calamity where 95% of the population died within the first 130 years of contact.

What were some diseases brought by Europeans that affected Native Americans?

Diseases included smallpox, typhus, diphtheria, and measles.

What is the significance of the demographic calamity caused by European contact?

It is considered the worst demographic calamity ever, resulting in the death of 95% of the Native American population.

What is the Bell question regarding national identity?

The Bell question asks about the nature of national identity and how it is created or formed.

How does a person's point of view influence their national identity?

A person's national identity is shaped by their perspective and opinions, which are influenced by beliefs, religions, and traditions.

What role does social grouping play in national identity?

Social grouping allows individuals to come together to create a collective identity based on shared or differing beliefs, religions, and traditions.

What contributes to the formation of a national identity?

Over time, people come together, sometimes influenced by wars.

What is the American Myth of Success?

The belief that America is the 'land of opportunity' where hard work can lead to wealth, embodying the idea of meritocracy.

What does the 'City on the Hill' myth represent?

It symbolizes American exceptionalism, suggesting that America is the best country in the world and should be a model for others.

What is the Agrarian Myth?

A belief that agricultural life is ideal and foundational to American identity.

What is the Frontier Myth?

The idea that America is defined by its frontier spirit and expansion.

What does the 'Foreign Devil' myth imply?

It portrays foreign entities as threats to American values and identity.

What was Hernando de Soto's impact on Native American populations?

His exploration led to a drastic decline in the Caddoan-speaking civilization's population from 200,000 to 8,500.

What ecological changes occurred after the decline of Native American populations?

Forests began to recover as Native Americans, who used fire to manage landscapes, diminished.

What is a keystone species?

A species that significantly affects the survival and abundance of other species in an ecosystem.

What happened to the ecological community when diseases affected Native Americans?

The ecological community collapsed due to the removal of keystone species.

How did pre-Columbian Native American civilizations compare to European civilizations?

They were as big, powerful, populous, wealthy, and advanced as European civilizations.

What agricultural practices were used by pre-Columbian civilizations?

They practiced hunting and gathering, as well as farming, including the use of fire and cultivation of crops.

What was the Columbian Exchange?

The transfer of plants, animals, and diseases between the Americas and Europe, including crops like tomatoes and potatoes.

What were the main food and drink sources for early European settlers?

They primarily consumed peas and loblolly, a watered-down oatmeal.

What challenges did indentured servants face in early settlements?

They dealt with poor nutrition, disease, lack of resources, and a sense of isolation leading to theft among settlers.

What did Richard Frethorne's letter reveal about the American success myth?

It illustrated that success was not attainable for indentured servants due to low pay, high mortality rates, and lack of community.

What does Frethorne's account suggest about the life of indentured servants?

It highlights their struggles with nutrition, disease, and the harsh realities of colonial life.

How did the settlers' relations with Native Americans begin?

Settlers first encountered Native Americans during a skirmish, capturing two hostages.

What was the general mortality rate for settlers in early America?

Most settlers died soon after arriving due to disease and poor living conditions.

What was the impact of lack of community among settlers?

It led to problems such as stealing instead of sharing knowledge, hindering collective success.

What was the fate of indentured servants regarding their contracts?

It was uncommon for them to live longer than their contracts due to harsh conditions.

What resources were indentured servants lacking?

They lacked sufficient resources to leave the colonies unless they had family assets or came from upper-class families.

What were some major fears expressed by Frethorn in his letter about life in Jamestown?

Starvation, disease, conflict with Native Americans, death, being stolen from, and malnourishment.

How does Frethorn's account provide insight into early settlement life in Jamestown?

It offers a first-person perspective on daily struggles, including resource scarcity, disease, and interactions with Native Americans.

What were the main reasons for the establishment of the Jamestown settlement by the Virginia Company?

To claim land in the Americas, access natural resources, and maintain mercantilism by controlling trade.

What challenges did the settlers face due to their social class and background?

Most settlers were noblemen and indentured servants with little agricultural knowledge, leading to difficulties in survival and food production.

What role did the Powhatan Confederacy play in the early years of Jamestown?

They initially interacted with settlers but later attacked due to conflicts over resources and land.

What environmental factors contributed to the high death rate in Jamestown?

Stagnant water in the Chesapeake Bay led to malaria and other diseases, while pollution from waste worsened conditions.

Why was the lack of agricultural knowledge a significant issue for the Jamestown settlers?

It prevented them from effectively growing crops necessary for survival in the new environment.

What was the impact of relying on Native Americans for survival?

Settlers expected assistance and knowledge from Native Americans, but many were not welcoming, leading to further challenges.

What does Frethorn's potential bias suggest about his account of Jamestown?

His embellishments may have been aimed at persuading his parents to buy out his contract, reflecting a personal perspective rather than an objective history.

How did the settlers' preparation (or lack thereof) affect their survival in Jamestown?

Little to no preparation led to disease, sickness, and high mortality rates due to inadequate food supplies and knowledge.

What was the significance of the Virginia Company's sponsorship of the Jamestown colony?

It marked England's attempt to expand its influence and control over new territories and resources in the Americas.

How did the settlers' expectations of Native American assistance contribute to their difficulties?

They underestimated the challenges of their environment and over-relied on Native Americans for survival, which did not materialize as expected.

What were the consequences of the settlers' location choice for Jamestown?

Settling in a swampy area led to health issues due to stagnant water and difficulty in growing crops.

What was the relationship between the settlers and the local tribes like initially?

Interactions varied, with some initial cooperation but ultimately leading to conflict as settlers encroached on tribal lands.

What were some of the key reasons for the settlers' failure to thrive in Jamestown?

Lack of agricultural skills, poor environmental conditions, reliance on trade with England, and conflicts with Native Americans.

What role did disease play in the early years of the Jamestown settlement?

Disease, particularly malaria, significantly contributed to the high mortality rate among settlers.

How did the settlers' expectations of wealth and resources influence their actions?

They focused on immediate wealth rather than sustainable living, leading to neglect of essential survival skills.

What was the impact of the Virginia Company's mercantilist policies on the settlers?

It restricted their trade options, forcing them to rely solely on England for resources and support.

How did the settlers' lack of preparation for the environment contribute to their struggles?

They were unprepared for the swampy conditions and the need for self-sufficiency in food production.

What does Frethorn's perspective reveal about the emotional state of early settlers?

It highlights feelings of fear, isolation, and desperation faced by many in the harsh realities of colonial life.

What were some misconceptions the settlers had about Native Americans?

They believed Native Americans would readily assist them in survival, which was not the case.

What lessons can historians learn from Frethorn's account regarding early colonial life?

It emphasizes the importance of first-hand accounts in understanding the complexities and challenges of early settlement.

What is the Powhatan Confederacy?

A group of native tribes in Virginia, often referring to the dominant tribe led by Wahunsenacawh.

Why did the Powhatan Confederacy attack the English settlers?

They believed the settlers were weak and were leeching off their resources.

What type of agriculture did the Powhatans practice?

They were subsistence farmers, growing only what they needed to survive.

What led to the Powhatans running out of resources?

The English settlers kept asking for extra food.

What was a major reason for conflict between the Powhatans and English settlers?

The English settlers were taking over Powhatan land.

What factors contributed to tobacco becoming a major cash crop in Virginia?

Tobacco was easy to grow, thrived in the environment, and was easy to transport across the Atlantic.

Who is credited with creating a sweeter version of tobacco in America?

John Rolfe.

What was the impact of the sweeter tobacco brought to America?

It became a cash crop that could be traded for food on incoming ships.

Why did governors initially try to limit tobacco production?

They wanted to prioritize growing food instead.

What was the settlers' response to the governors' attempts to limit tobacco production?

Settlers continued to grow tobacco because they wanted something to trade, not just food.

How did tobacco cultivation differ in England compared to America?

A richer version of tobacco was grown in America that was not as popular in England.

How does the reading from Anchor: The Founding of Virginia relate to Frethorne's account?

The reading provides context that helps understand the challenges faced by settlers, as described in Frethorne's account.

What were the working conditions like in early Jamestown settlement?

The working conditions were harsh, with high disease and death rates.

How did Richard's letter gain credibility?

It was backed by evidence from articles that provided statistics on death counts.

What percentage of the Chesapeake population were Africans by 1720?

By 1720, Africans made up 20% of the population in the Chesapeake area.

What was the percentage of Africans in the Chesapeake population by 1740?

By 1740, almost 40% of the population was African.

What significant law did Virginia's House of Burgesses pass in 1669 regarding slaves?

It allowed for the punishment of slaves, including the right to hit or kill them, as they were considered property.

What restrictions were placed on slaves in Virginia?

Slaves could not carry weapons, gather in large numbers, and were branded for identification.

What was the impact of the law prohibiting relationships between English and Africans?

It reinforced the view that all Africans were seen as slaves.

How did the treatment of slaves in Virginia and Maryland differ from other regions?

Slaves lived longer and were treated better because they were expensive and less demanding in labor.

What was a common practice regarding female slaves in the 1700s?

They were bought to breed more generations of workers, as children of enslaved mothers were also enslaved.

What new crop was introduced in the 1700s that posed dangers to slaves?

Rice was introduced, which was dangerous to harvest and led to diseases and exhaustion.

What communication challenges did slaves face?

Slaves from various regions spoke different languages, making communication difficult.

What aspects of African heritage were preserved by slaves?

Hairstyles, wood carving, drums, pottery, and house designs.

What was made illegal regarding the education of slaves?

It became illegal to teach slaves how to read and write.

What forms of resistance did slaves engage in?

Passive resistance included breaking tools and working slowly, while some actively attacked their owners.

What were the primary causes of Bacon's Rebellion?

Economic problems, the mercantile system, navigation acts, corrupt government, and social obstacles.

Who were the key figures involved in Bacon's Rebellion?

Gov. William Berkeley, Nathaniel Bacon, Native Americans, planters of Virginia, escaped slaves, and poor landless whites.

What event did Nathaniel Bacon lead against Jamestown?

He led an army of indentured servants and poor landless whites to burn down Jamestown.

What was the role of the House of Burgesses in Bacon's Rebellion?

Bacon accused Berkeley of corruption after being elected to the House of Burgesses.

How did the mercantile system affect the economy of Virginia?

It restricted trade to Britain, contributing to economic difficulties and high taxes.

What social barriers did slaves face in Virginia?

Slaves were stripped of basic human rights and faced a racial hierarchy determined by their mother's race.

What was passive resistance in the context of slavery?

Passive resistance involved non-violent protests, such as working slowly or breaking tools.