Economic Nationalism and the American System Overview

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, events, and figures related to Economic Nationalism, the American System, and early American industrialization, useful for exam preparation.

What were the key components of Economic Nationalism in early America?

Encouraged creativity and inventiveness, created a transportation infrastructure, and fostered a pro-business atmosphere.

What is the American System?

A set of economic policies that included the Tariff of 1816, the chartering of the Second Bank of the United States, and federal internal improvements.

Which infrastructure project began in 1817 and was completed in 1825?

The Erie Canal.

What was the significance of the Railroads, particularly from 1830 to 1860?

Railroad tracks expanded dramatically, from 13 miles in 1830 to 31,000 miles by 1860, transforming transportation.

Which invention by Eli Whitney in 1793 contributed to the profitability of slavery?

The Cotton Gin.

What impact did the Lowell/Waltham system have on the textile industry?

It established the first dual-purpose textile plant, significantly increasing production efficiency.

What was the main function of the Lowell Mill Time Table?

To regulate the working hours of mill employees, averaging 11 hours per day.

What does the term 'Know-Nothing Party' refer to in American history?

A political movement that aimed to protect native-born Americans against the influx of immigrants and their influence.

What does the term 'Yankee Ingenuity' imply regarding early American inventors?

It reflects American resourcefulness and willingness to innovate, leading to numerous patents between 1800 and 1860.

What was the contribution of Cyrus McCormick in the agricultural revolution?

He invented the Mechanical Reaper in 1831, which significantly improved harvesting efficiency.

How did the distribution of wealth change from the American Revolution to 1845?

The wealth gap widened, with the top 4% owning over 65% of wealth in Boston by 1845.

What role did immigrant labor play in the railroad industry during the 1850s?

Immigrant labor was crucial in the construction of Northern railroads, while slave labor was used in the South.

How did the Erie Canal impact trade in early America?

It provided a direct water route between the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes, facilitating trade and transportation.

What was the significance of the telegraph invented by Samuel F. B. Morse in 1840?

It revolutionized communication by enabling instant messaging over long distances.

What was the result of the Commonwealth v. Hunt (1842) case?

It recognized the right of workers to form unions.

What sentiments were expressed by Lyman Beecher regarding Catholics in the 1830s?

He was concerned about a potential union of church and state due to the increasing Catholic population.

What was the primary encapsulation of the 'Iron Horse' within America’s economic growth?

The rapid expansion of rail technology significantly propelled America's economic growth and connectivity.

What was the role of the Lowell Offering?

It was a publication that provided a platform for factory operatives, particularly women, to express their thoughts and art.