Economic Impact of Cotton Production in Early America

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to the economic and political impact of cotton production in early America as discussed in the lecture notes.

Cotton Economy

The economic system in the United States during the 19th century that was heavily reliant on cotton production and contributed to growth in both the South and the industrial North.

Eli Whitney

The inventor of the cotton gin, which revolutionized the process of cotton production by dramatically speeding up the cleaning of cotton.

Monroe Doctrine

A U.S. policy that opposed European colonialism in the Americas, declared by President Monroe in 1823.

Missouri Compromise

A political agreement in 1820 that allowed Missouri to enter the Union as a slave state and Maine as a free state, while prohibiting slavery north of latitude 36°30′.

Alabama Fever

The migration of settlers into Alabama and Mississippi following the War of 1812, driven by the promise of fertile land for cotton cultivation.

Erie Canal

A major canal completed in 1825 that connected the Hudson River to Lake Erie, significantly enhancing trade and transport in New York.

Interchangeable Parts

Mass-produced components that can be swapped out for each other, which revolutionized manufacturing, notably in industries like textile and machinery.

Industrial Revolution

A period of great industrial growth and technological advancement that began in the late 18th century and transformed economies from agriculture-based to industrial-based.

Tariff of Abominations

A tariff enacted in 1828 that raised duties on imported goods, which led to significant discontent in the South, particularly among cotton planters.

Plantation System

An agricultural system prevalent in the South, characterized by large estates that produced cash crops like cotton, relying heavily on slave labor.