Period 3 APUSH

French & Indian War begins

Debt prompted new colonial taxes, straining relations and setting stage for revolution.

Treaty of Paris / Proclamation of 1763

Fueled colonial anger at British control, deepening divide.

Stamp Act

Introduced “no taxation without representation,” strengthening colonial unity.

Boston Massacre

Inflamed anti-British sentiment and further united colonists.

Boston Tea Party

Britain responded with Intolerable Acts, pushing colonies closer to revolution.

First Continental Congress

First major step toward intercolonial unity and resistance.

Lexington & Concord

Sparked open conflict, beginning the Revolutionary War.

Declaration of Independence

Justified independence and established democratic principles.

Battle of Saratoga

Turning point of war; foreign aid crucial for ultimate victory.

Articles of Confederation / Yorktown

Articles proved ineffective; Yorktown led to peace negotiations.

Treaty of Paris (1783)

U.S. gained land east of Mississippi and international legitimacy.

Shays’ Rebellion

Exposed weakness of Articles, spurring call for stronger Constitution.

Constitutional Convention

Created stronger federal government with checks and balances.

Washington Inaugurated

Established norms for executive power and peaceful transfer.

Bill of Rights Ratified

Secured ratification, guaranteed liberties, limited federal power.

Whiskey Rebellion

Demonstrated strength of new Constitution compared to Articles.

Adams Presidency / XYZ Affair

Increased anti-French sentiment, led to Quasi-War.

Alien & Sedition Acts / VA & KY Resolutions

Sparked debate over civil liberties and federal vs. state power.

Election of 1800

“Revolution of 1800” marked peaceful transfer of power between parties