Colonial Foundations and Emergence of American Identity (Period 2)

A set of practice flashcards covering the Colonial Era foundations for the American Revolution, emergence of American identity, and related topics based on the provided notes.

What policy allowed colonial self-governance and laid the groundwork for the American Revolution?

Salutary neglect.

Which British policies after the French and Indian War contributed to colonial unrest through taxation (e.g., Stamp Act, Tea Act)?

Taxation of the colonies by Britain (Stamp Act and Tea Act).

Name three colonial actions/events that followed Britain’s taxation after the French and Indian War and helped unite the colonies.

Boston Tea Party, Boston Massacre, and the First Continental Congress.

What overarching sense developed among the colonies as a outcome of increasing self-rule and protest?

A growing American identity.

During which period and approximately when did a distinctive American identity begin to take shape, and what influenced it?

Mid-18th century (Period Two); influenced by colonial self-governance and cultural exchanges.

Which ideas and instruments contributed to the development of American political institutions?

Enlightenment ideas and colonial charters.

What revolutionary ideals helped lead to the creation of new state and federal constitutions?

Democracy and republicanism.

What need emerged after the Articles of Confederation that influenced the development of political institutions?

A need for a stronger central government.

In what ways were the colonies connected to Great Britain, and what weakened these bonds over time?

Connections through trade, governance, and cultural ties; bonds weakened due to growing colonial autonomy and dissatisfaction with British rule.

Trace the development of slavery in the American colonies.

It began with indentured servitude and evolved into a racialized system that became integral to the Southern economy.

How were the New England, Middle, and Southern Colonies distinctive politically, socially, and economically?

They had distinct political structures, social hierarchies, and economic practices shaped by geography, resources, and cultural influences.

What were the main types of interactions between colonists and Native Americans?

Trade, conflict, and treaties, often resulting in displacement and violence.

By 1754, to what extent were the colonies still 'English' in character?

They retained English cultural traits but also developed unique identities shaped by local conditions and interactions.

In what ways was America distinctive from Europe by 1750?

Social mobility, diverse population, and emerging democratic ideals, contrasted with Europe’s rigid class structures.

What did the word 'AMERICAN' mean by 1750?

A growing sense of identity with shared experiences, values, and aspirations distinct from European origins.