U.S. History Foundational Documents

The Enlightenment

An era that occurred in the 1700s where people questioned of culture, tradition, and authority, with an emphasis on having value in the government.

John Locke

A 17th-century philosopher who was inspired by the Glorious Revolution, wrote a political thing arguing that the best form of government is one that protects the rights of the people.

July 4th, 1776

The date the Declaration of Independence was signed, that stated the United States was finally independence from Britain.

The French and Indian War

A conflict (1754-1763) between Britain and France over territory in North America, primarily between the Appalachian Mountains and the Mississippi River.

England Taxing

To pay off war debts, England imposed taxes on the American colonies, taxing items such as paper, tea, and shipping.

Colonial tax protests

The slogan 'No taxation without representation' expressed that the colonists did not like the British taxes..

1770

Boston massacre

1773

Boston tea party

1775

Battle of Lexington green

Battle of Lexington Green

In 1775, British soldiers sought to arrest John Hancock, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the 'shot heard around the world.'

First Continental Congress (1774)

A meeting held in Philadelphia where representatives from each colony decided on shared representation.

Opening of the Declaration of Independence

The document references John Locke's principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as natural rights

Middle section of the Declaration of Independence

It lists grievances against Britain, including complaints about taxing and the issue of slavery (originally included by Jefferson but removed later)

Conclusion of the Declaration of Independence

It proclaims the United States as independent and free from British rule, uniting the colonies.

Articles of Confederation (AOC)

Laws enacted between 1777 and 1781 that established a government with more state power than federal government power, each with its own governor and currency.

Shay's Rebellion

A revolt led by Danial Shay in Massachusetts protesting high taxes, which resulted in an armed confrontation.

Shipping disputes in New York

New York profited significantly from shipping, leading to tensions with other states, particularly Delaware, Connecticut, and New Jersey, which nearly escalated into conflict.

Constitutional Convention (1787)

A gathering of state representatives who met to revise the Articles of Confederation but ended up drafting the United States Constitution.

Post-war taxation

To pay off war debts, England imposed taxes on the American colonies, taxing items such as paper, tea, and shipping.

Colonial tax protests

The slogan 'No taxation without representation' expressed the colonists' dissatisfaction with British taxation policies.

Key events of colonial resistance

Events during the taxation period include:

• 1770: Boston Massacre
• 1773: Boston Tea Party
• 1775: Battle of Lexington Green

Battle of Lexington Green

In 1775, British soldiers sought to arrest John Hancock, leading to a confrontation that resulted in the 'shot heard around the world.'

First Continental Congress (1774)

A meeting held in Philadelphia where representatives from each colony decided on shared representation and responses to British policies.

Opening of the Declaration of Independence

The document references John Locke's principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as inherent natural rights.

Middle section of the Declaration of Independence

It lists grievances against Britain, including complaints about taxation and the issue of slavery (originally included by Jefferson but later removed).

Conclusion of the Declaration of Independence

It proclaims the United States as independent and free from British rule, uniting the colonies.

Articles of Confederation (AOC)

Laws enacted between 1777 and 1781 that established a government with greater power held by the states than the federal government, each with its own governor and currency.

Shay's Rebellion

A revolt led by a dissatisfied farmer in Massachusetts protesting high taxes, which resulted in an armed confrontation.

Shipping disputes in New York

New York profited significantly from shipping, leading to tensions with other states, particularly Delaware, Connecticut, and New Jersey, which nearly escalated into conflict.

Constitutional Convention (1787)

A gathering of state representatives who met to revise the Articles of Confederation but ended up drafting the United States Constitution.