AP U.S. History Unit 4 (1800–1848) Flashcards

Key terms and definitions from Unit 4 of AP U.S. History covering the period from 1800 to 1848.

Revolution of 1800

Peaceful transfer of power from Federalists to Democratic-Republicans; proved U.S. political stability.

Louisiana Purchase (1803)

U.S. bought territory from France, doubling its size and expanding land for farming and exploration.

Lewis and Clark Expedition (1804–1806)

Explored and mapped the Louisiana Territory, increasing knowledge and encouraging westward expansion.

Embargo Act (1807)

Banned all foreign trade to avoid war with Britain/France; hurt the U.S. economy.

War of 1812

War against Britain over trade and impressment; boosted U.S. nationalism.

Hartford Convention (1814)

Federalists opposed the War of 1812; damaged their reputation and ended their party.

Era of Good Feelings

Period of one-party rule under Monroe; appeared united but tensions grew over slavery and economic issues.

American System (Henry Clay)

Plan for tariffs, a national bank, and internal improvements; promoted growth but divided the nation.

Missouri Compromise (1820)

Missouri = slave, Maine = free; slavery banned north of 36°30′; eased tensions temporarily.

Monroe Doctrine (1823)

Warned Europe not to colonize in the Americas; strengthened U.S. nationalism.

Corrupt Bargain (1824)

Adams allegedly made a deal with Clay to win presidency; angered Jackson supporters.

Jacksonian Democracy

Movement expanding suffrage for white men; focused on the 'common man'.

Spoils System

Jackson gave government jobs to loyal supporters; increased corruption but expanded political participation.

Indian Removal Act (1830)

Forced Native Americans west of the Mississippi; led to the Trail of Tears.

Nullification Crisis (1832–1833)

South Carolina tried to reject tariffs; Jackson defended federal authority.

Bank War (1832)

Jackson vetoed renewal of Second Bank of the U.S.; weakened the national bank and caused economic instability.

Specie Circular (1836)

Required land payments in gold/silver; contributed to Panic of 1837.

Panic of 1837

Economic depression caused by Jackson’s bank policies and speculation; hurt Van Buren's presidency.

Market Revolution

Growth of industry, canals, and communication; created a national economy.

Lowell System

Factory system using young women in textile mills; early industrial labor example.

Second Great Awakening

Religious revival inspiring reform movements like abolition and temperance.

Temperance Movement

Campaign to limit or ban alcohol; led largely by women reformers.

Abolition Movement

Movement to end slavery; increased sectional conflict and reform leadership.

Women’s Rights Movement

Pushed for women’s equality and suffrage; led to Seneca Falls Convention (1848).

Transcendentalism

Philosophy emphasizing nature, self-reliance, and individuality; influenced reformers.

Democratic Party (Jacksonians)

Favored limited government, states’ rights, and the common man; formed from Democratic-Republicans.

Whig Party

Opposed Jackson; supported Congress, national bank, and improvements; reflected sectional interests.

Second Party System

Political system of Democrats vs. Whigs; expanded voter participation and political debate.