Forging the National Economy: 1790-1860

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary from the lecture on the economic and social transformations in America from 1790 to 1860.

Market Revolution

A transformation of a subsistence economy into a national network of industry and commerce.

Interchangeable Parts

Standardized components that can be used in place of one another to improve efficiency in manufacturing.

Ecological Imperialism

The aggressive exploitation of the West's natural resources with little regard for environmental consequences.

The Cotton Gin

An invention by Eli Whitney in 1793 that revolutionized cotton processing.

Self-Reliance

A lecture-essay by Ralph Waldo Emerson that emphasizes the individual’s ability to rely on one's own instincts.

Rendezvous System

A method used by fur trappers to meet and trade with each other and their suppliers, primarily in the Rocky Mountains.

Ten-Hour Day

A labor movement victory in which the federal government established limited work hours for federal employees.

Know-Nothing Party

A political party formed by nativists in the 1840s aimed at restricting immigration and the political influence of Catholics.

Transoceanic Steamships

Ships that greatly reduced travel time across the Atlantic, contributing to increased immigration to America.

Pioneer Life

The challenging existence faced by early settlers in the West, often marked by hard labor, isolation, and both physical and emotional hardships.

Erie Canal

A canal that connected the Hudson River with Lake Erie, significantly reducing transportation costs and time for goods.

Clipper Ships

Fast sailing ships of the mid-nineteenth century designed for speed, primarily used in trade.

Cyrus McCormick

Inventor of the mechanical mower-reaper, which revolutionized farming by significantly increasing crop production efficiency.

The National Road

The first major improved highway in the United States built by the federal government, facilitating westward expansion.

Cultural Clashes

Conflicts arising from interactions between different ethnic groups, particularly in urban settings during the 19th century.

Amish Settlements

Religious communities founded by Anabaptists in America seeking to maintain their cultural and religious traditions.