US History - Unit 1: Founding a Nation

John Locke

An English philosopher who argued for natural rights—life, liberty, and property—and the social contract, influencing the American colonists and Founding Fathers.

Great Awakening

A religious revival led by emotional preaching and personal religious experience, fostering ideas of equality and individualism that contributed to colonial independence.

Enlightenment

An intellectual movement emphasizing reason, science, and individual rights, demonstrated by Benjamin Franklin through his inventions and scientific discoveries.

Proclamation of 1763

A British decree forbidding American colonists from settling west of the Appalachian Mountains, leading to anger and defiance among colonists.

"No taxation without representation"

A colonial objection to being taxed by the British Parliament without elected representatives, viewed as unjust.

George Washington

The commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution, leading key victories that secured American independence.

What are the self-evident truths in the Declaration of Independence

The belief that "all men are created equal" and possess "unalienable rights" such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Thomas Paine's "Common Sense"

A statement that America's struggle for independence is a universal fight for freedom and democracy, relevant to all people seeking liberty.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution of the U.S., creating a weak central government with limited powers and lacking authority to tax or regulate commerce.

Northwest Ordinance of 1787

A law establishing governance for the Northwest Territory, providing a method for admitting new states and prohibiting slavery in the region.

Constitutional Convention of 1787

A meeting to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, resulting in the drafting of a new Constitution; James Madison played a key role.

Preamble of the US Constitution

The introduction stating the goals of unity, justice, peace, defense, general welfare, and liberty for future generations.

Article I (Legislative)

Establishes Congress to make laws, control spending, and declare war.

Article II (Executive)

Establishes the presidency to enforce laws, manage foreign policy, and serve as commander-in-chief.

Article III (Judicial)

Establishes the Supreme Court and lower courts to interpret laws and ensure their constitutionality.

Connecticut Compromise

Also known as the Great Compromise, it created a bicameral legislature to balance representation between large and small states.