APUSH Timeline (copy)

1492

Columbus arrives in the New World, leading to increased trade and the establishment of Spain as a colonial power.

1587

England’s first attempt to settle in North America, resulting in the Lost Colony of Roanoke.

1607

Foundation of Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America.

1620

Arrival of the Mayflower in Plymouth, marking a significant event in early colonial history.

1688

The Glorious Revolution, where James II was overthrown, leading to William and Mary as joint monarchs.

1754–1763

The Seven Years' War, fought between the British and French, ending with the Treaty of Paris.

1763

Proclamation of 1763, forbidding colonial settlement past the Appalachian Mountains.

1776

Declaration of Independence articulated principles of individual liberty and governmental responsibility.

1781

Battle of Yorktown marks the end of the American Revolutionary War.

1787

Constitutional Convention held to address weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation.

1803

Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the United States and facilitated westward expansion.

1812–1815

War of 1812, resulting in the end of the Federalist Party and the rise of American nationalism.

1820

Missouri Compromise established a boundary for the spread of slavery.

1861–1865

Civil War, a pivotal conflict over issues including states' rights and slavery.

1865

Lincoln assassinated, impacting the direction of Reconstruction.

1896

Plessy v. Ferguson established the 'separate but equal' doctrine.

1917

U.S. enters WWI, with increased military involvement in global affairs.

1945

End of WWII with the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

1964

Civil Rights Act outlawed discrimination in employment and public facilities.

1973

Roe v. Wade case established a woman's legal right to abortion.

1989

Cold War ends with the fall of the Berlin Wall and the dissolution of the Soviet Union.