HISTORY NOTES FOR MIDETERM

Preamble

The introduction to the U.S. Constitution stating the purpose of the document.

Legislative Branch

The part of the government that makes laws, consisting of Congress.

Executive Branch

The part of the government led by the President who enforces laws.

Judicial Branch

The part of the government that interprets laws, including courts.

Supremacy Clause

The clause in the Constitution that states federal law is supreme over state law.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that protect individual freedoms.

Judiciary Act of 1789

Established the federal court system and defined its jurisdiction.

XYZ Affair

A diplomatic incident between the U.S. and France that led to increased tensions.

Whiskey Rebellion

A 1794 uprising of frontier farmers against an excise tax on whiskey.

Monroe Doctrine

The U.S. policy that opposed European colonization in the Americas.

Corps of Discovery

The expedition led by Lewis and Clark to explore the Louisiana Territory.

Impressment

The practice of forcing American sailors to serve in the British Navy.

Alien and Sedition Acts

Laws aimed at restricting immigration and limiting free speech during Adams' presidency.

War of 1812

Conflict between the U.S. and Britain over maritime rights and Native American resistance.

Nullification Crisis

A confrontation between South Carolina and the federal government over state's rights.

Battle of Tippecanoe

Battle in 1811 in which U.S. forces defeated Native American warriors led by Tenskwatawa.

Tecumseh

Shawnee leader who attempted to unite Native American tribes against U.S. expansion.

John C. Calhoun

Advocate for states' rights and slavery, known for his role in the Nullification Crisis.

Henry Clay

Known as the 'Great Compromiser,' he played key roles in various compromises regarding slavery.

Daniel Webster

A prominent senator and orator known for his speeches advocating nationalism.

Louisiana Purchase

The 1803 acquisition of French territory that doubled the size of the U.S.

Treaty of Greenville

The 1795 agreement that ended hostilities between the U.S. and Native tribes in the Northwest.

Pinckney's Treaty

Treaty between the U.S. and Spain that granted rights to navigate the Mississippi River.

1st Bank of the United States

Established in 1791 to stabilize the economy and manage debt, supported by Hamilton.

Hamilton vs. Jefferson

Political rivalry reflecting differing views on government power and economy.

Marbury v. Madison

The landmark case that established the principle of judicial review.

Gibbons v. Ogden

Supreme Court case that reinforced federal control over interstate commerce.

McCulloch v. Maryland

Supreme Court decision affirming the implied powers of Congress.