APUSH midyear

Headright System

Headright System

A land distribution system in colonial Virginia where individuals who paid for their own transportation or others' passage were granted 50 acres of land.

Mayflower Compact

A governing agreement created by the Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower ship, establishing a framework for self-government in Plymouth Colony.

Pequot War

A conflict in 1637 where the English allied with the Mohegan and Narragansett tribes to wipe out the Pequot tribe.

King Philip's War / Metacom's War

A war that took place from 1675-1676, led by Metacom (also known as King Philip), the son of Massasoit. It resulted in the destruction of many Massachusetts towns and the death of thousands of Native Americans.

Bacon's Rebellion

An armed uprising in colonial Virginia led by Nathaniel Bacon in response to grievances against Governor William Berkeley's administration. Bacon wanted no relations with NA while Berkeley thought they should negotiate trade relations.

Salem Witch Trials

A series of hearings and prosecutions in colonial Massachusetts that involved accusations of witchcraft, execution of 20 individuals, and fueled religious/social tensions

Salutary Neglect

British policy of loosely enforcing trade regulations on American colonies, allowing colonies to develop self-governing systems and pursue economic interests.

House of Burgesses

First representative assembly in colonial America, giving colonists a voice in local governance and instrumental in the development of self-government in colonies.

Great Awakening I

Religious revival movement in American colonies emphasizing personal piety, emotional preaching, and direct relationship with God, challenging traditional authority, fostering individualism, and shaping colonial society.

Old and New Lights

Terms used during the Great Awakening to describe two factions within the colonial religious community. Old Lights were traditionalists opposing emotionalism and radicalism of the revival, while New Lights embraced the revivalist movement, reflecting broader social and religious tensions in colonial society.

French and Indian War (1754-63)

Conflict between British and French in North America and a part of the seven years war that resulted in british dominance in NA and severe british debt leading t increased colonial taxes

Stamp Act

British law imposing taxes on printed materials in American colonies

Boston Massacre

Violent confrontation between British soldiers and colonists in Boston resulted in five dead colonists and increase anti-british sentiment

Tea Act (1773)

British law granting monopoly on tea trade to British East India Company that was seen as an attempt to undermine colonial economic interests

Boston Tea Party (1773)

Political protest by Sons of Liberty against the Tea Act where they dumped tea into the boston harbor and demonstrated commitment to american independence

Intolerable Acts (1774)

Punitive measures by British government in response to Boston Tea Party including the closure of boston harbor, quartering of troops, and suspension of self-gvnmnt in massachusetts

Revolutionary War

Conflict between Great Britain and thirteen colonies fought over issues of self-governance and representation.

Declaration of Independence

Document adopted by Second Continental Congress declaring independence from British rule and asserting natural rights to life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.

Anti-Federalists

Opposed ratification of the U.S. Constitution, believing it granted too much power to the federal government, and advocated for stronger state governments and a Bill of Rights.

Articles of Confederation

First constitution of the United States, creating a weak central government with limited powers and leading to the call for the Constitutional Convention and drafting of the U.S. Constitution.

Treaty of Paris (1783)

Ended the American Revolutionary War, recognized the United States as an independent nation, established boundaries, and secured fishing rights and property return for loyalists.

Constitutional Convention (1787)

Gathering of delegates to revise the Articles of Confederation where they drafted the us constitution. it addressed representation, separation of powers, and state-federal balance creating a stronger central government with checks and balances

Great Compromise (1787)

Resolved the debate over representation in the new Congress by proposing a bicameral legislature with a House of Reps based on population and equal representation in senate to satisfy both large and small states to ensure ratification of constitution

Land Ordinance (1785)

Established a system for surveying and selling public lands in the western territories and divided land int townships/sections while setting land aside for public education

Shays' Rebellion (1786-1787)

An armed uprising in Massachusetts led by farmers against high taxes and debt post american revolution. they demanded relief from state government which wasnt seen through so it demonstrated need for stronger central gvnmnt

Slave Trade Compromise - 1787

Compromise reached during the Constitutional Convention allowing congress to regulate commerce, including international slave trade, starting 1808. Reflected tension around slavery form north and south from the beginning of the creation of US

3/5 Compromise

The compromise reached during the Constitutional Convention of 1787 that determined enslaved individuals would be counted as three-fifths of a person for the purpose of determining a state's population. reflected power struggle b/w north and south

Northwest Ordinance

An act passed by the Congress of the Confederation in 1787 that established a process for admitting new states to the Union from the Northwest Territory and prohibited slavery in the territory, setting a precedent for future territories and states.

Checks and Balances

The system of government established by the United States Constitution in 1787 that divides power among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful and to allow each branch to check the actions of the others.

Federalism

The division of power between the national government and state governments, established in the United States Constitution in 1787.

Electoral College

The system used to elect the President of the United States, established in the Constitution in 1787. Each state is allocated a certain number of electors based on its representation in Congress.

Elastic Clause / Necessary and Proper Clause

An arrangement in the United States Constitution that grants Congress the power to make laws that are necessary and proper for carrying out its powers. This clause has been interpreted broadly, allowing Congress to expand its powers over time.

Ratification

The process of formally approving or accepting a document, such as the United States Constitution. After the Constitution was drafted in 1787, it required ratification by at least 9/13 states to become effective. The ratification process involved intense debates and discussions, leading to the adoption of the Constitution in 1788.

Great Compromise (1787)

Resolved the debate over representation in the new Congress

Whiskey Rebellion (1791-94)

Protest against the federal government's tax on whiskey

Democratic-Republicans

A political party formed by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison in opposition to the Federalist Party. They supported a strict interpretation of the Constitution, states' rights, and an agrarian economy. They were critical of Federalist policies and their rise to power marked the first peaceful transfer of power between political parties in the United States.

Federalist Party

A political party founded by Alexander Hamilton. They advocated for a strong central government, a national bank, and a pro-British foreign policy. They played a significant role in shaping early U.S. government and policies, but declined due to opposition to the War of 1812 and their association with elitism.

Broad/Strict Interpretation

Varying approaches to interpreting the US Constitution, particularly the extent of federal power. Influences the balance between federal and state authority and the scope of individual rights. Arises from differing political ideologies and constitutional interpretations. Shapes court decisions and government policies. Fundamental to understanding debates over federalism, civil liberties, and the evolving role of the judiciary.

Cotton Gin

Machine invented by Eli Whitney. Mechanized process of separating cotton fibers from their seeds, greatly increasing the efficiency of cotton production. Led to a massive expansion of cotton cultivation and increased the demand for enslaved labor. Made cotton production highly profitable, solidifying the South's reliance on slavery and contributing to the growth of the plantation system. Fueled the demand for cotton in textile mills in the North and Europe, leading to increased trade and economic growth.

Neutrality Proclamation

Statement issued by Pres. Washington in 1793, declared US neutrality in ongoing conflict between France and Great Britain during the French Revolutionary Wars. Aimed to protect American interests by avoiding entanglement in European conflicts and maintaining trade relations with France and Britain. French Revolution and subsequent conflicts between France and Britain created tensions that could potentially draw the United States into war. Established a precedent of US non-interventionism in foreign affairs. Strained relations with France because the US and France used to be close allies.

Jay's Treaty

Treaty negotiated by Chief Justice John Jay in 1794-95. Agreement that assuaged antagonisms between the United States and Great Britain, established a base upon which America could build a sound national economy, and assured its commercial prosperity. Controversial treaty that faced opposition from both Federalists and Democratic-Republicans. Provided temporary peace and improved trade relations between the two countries, but did not fully address American grievances.

Declaration of Independence (1776)

Document adopted by Second Continental Congress declaring independence from British rule and asserting natural rights to life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.

Pinckney's Treaty - 1795

Agreement between US & Spain negotiated by Thomas Pinckney aimed to resolve territorial disputes and improve trade relations, facilitated westward expansion and increased American influence in the Mississippi River region.

Farewell Address (1796)

Written speech by George Washington discussing his decision not to seek a third term, set precedent for limited terms, emphasized peaceful transition of power and avoiding factionalism and permanent alliances.

XYZ Affair (1797-1798)

Diplomatic crisis between the United States and France, caused by French resentment towards US neutrality in the French Revolutionary Wars, led to increased tensions and the undeclared naval war known as the Quasi War.

Quasi War (1798-1800)

Undeclared naval conflict between the United States and France, caused by tensions following the XYZ Affair and French seizures of American ships, strengthened the U.S. Navy and ended with the signing of the Convention of 1800.

Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions

Political statements by Jefferson and Madison asserting the principle of nullification, allowing states to nullify unconstitutional federal laws. Opposed alien-sedition acts

Alien and Sedition Acts

Laws passed by john adams in opposition to the Democratic-Republicans and fear of foreign french influence after/during quasi war, seen as a violation of individual liberties.

States' Rights Doctrine

The belief in the rights of states to assert their authority over the federal government.

Great Awakening II

Religious revival movement emphasizing personal salvation and emotional worship that increased religious diversity (mormonism) and inspired social reform (abolitionists, womens rights, prison reform, temperance movement)

Abolitionist Movement

Movement against slavery, influenced by the religious revivalism of the Great Awakening II.

Temperance Movement

Movement advocating for the reduction or elimination of alcohol consumption, influenced by the religious revivalism of the Great Awakening II.

Women's Rights Movement

Movement advocating for women's rights and equality, influenced by the religious revivalism of the Great Awakening II.

Prison Reform

Movement advocating for the improvement of prison conditions and rehabilitation, influenced by the religious revivalism of the Great Awakening II.

Shakers

New religious movement that emerged during the Great Awakening II, known for their communal living and celibacy.

Millerites

New religious movement that emerged during the Great Awakening II, known for their belief in the imminent second coming of Christ.

Barbary Pirates

North African pirates who attacked American ships in the Mediterranean and held sailors captive for ransom or tribute.

First Barbary War

The conflict that arose when President Jefferson refused to pay tribute to the Barbary Pirates, leading to the outbreak of war in 1801.

Principle of Non-Tribute

The refusal to pay tribute to foreign powers established an important principle in American foreign policy.

Marbury v Madison 1803

John Marshall- First asserted the right of the Supreme Court to determine the meaning. A landmark case that established the power of judicial review.

Midnight Judges

Appointments made by President Adams in the final days of his presidency, including Marbury as a justice of the peace.

Power of Judicial Review

The Court's decision in Marbury v. Madison asserted its authority to interpret the Constitution and determine the constitutionality of laws passed by Congress.

Louisiana Purchase

The acquisition of a vast region from France, doubling the size of the country and extending its western boundary to the Rocky Mountains. The purchase opened up new opportunities for settlement, trade, and access to valuable resources and provided the US with access to the vital waterway of the Mississippi River.

Napoleon's Motives for lousiana purchase

The Louisiana Purchase was primarily driven by Napoleon's need for money and his desire to secure New Orleans as a strategic port.

Lewis & Clark Expedition (1804-06)

Exploration journey commissioned by President Jefferson and led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to explore and map the newly acquired western territory of the United States, known as the Louisiana Purchase.

Embargo Act (1807)

Law passed by the US Congress that prohibited American ships from trading with all foreign nations, imposing a trade embargo on the United States.

Warhawks

Group of young, nationalist politicians who advocated for war against Britain to protect American honor, expand territory, and defend American interests.

Impressment

The practice of forcibly recruiting sailors into the British Navy, often targeting American sailors, which strained relations between the US and Britain.

War of 1812

Conflict between the US and Britain fought over maritime rights, impressment, and territorial expansion, which solidified the United States as an independent nation and boosted national pride.

Hartford Convention

A meeting of New England Federalists during the War of 1812, where they discussed grievances and proposed constitutional amendments. It was seen as a direct challenge to the authority of the federal government and the presidency of James Madison and an attack on majority rule. Led to decline of federalist power.

American System

An economic plan proposed by Henry Clay in 1815 to promote economic growth and national unity in the United States. It aimed to strengthen the federal government, protect American industries, and improve transportation and infrastructure.

Protective Tariff

A tax on imported goods intended to protect domestic industries from foreign competition to shield American industries from foreign competition and promote economic growth, but they can increase prices for consumers and provoke trade disputes. Part of American System

Treaty of Ghent

A peace agreement signed in 1814, ending the War of 1812 between the US and Britain that restored pre-war boundaries & diplomatic relations but didnt address impressment

American Colonization Society

An organization established in 1816 with the goal of promoting the voluntary colonization of free African Americans to Africa. They believed that colonization would lead to the abolition of slavery and the removal of free African Americans from the United States.

Second Bank of the United States

Established in 1816 to address economic instability after the War of 1812. Played a role in economic growth but was not renewed in 1836 leading to an era of “free banking” and increased state control

McCulloch v Maryland (1819)

Supreme Court case in 1819 that established the principle of implied powers and the supremacy of the federal government over state governments.

Missouri Compromise

Legislation in 1820 that admitted Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state, maintaining the balance between slave and free states in the Senate.

Sectionalism

Refers to the loyalty and interests of a particular region or section of the country over the interests of the nation as a whole.

Cult of Domesticity

An ideology from 1820-1860 that prescribed separate spheres for men and women, emphasizing women's role in the home and promoting domesticity. It reinforced gender roles and limited women's opportunities outside the home.

Monroe Doctrine

A policy articulated by President James Monroe in 1823 that declared the Americas off-limits for further colonization by European powers. It asserted U.S. dominance in the Western Hemisphere and warned against European intervention in the affairs of newly independent Latin American nations.

Gibbons v Ogden

A landmark Supreme Court case in 1824 that established the federal government's power to regulate interstate commerce. It strengthened the federal government's authority over states in matters of commerce and expanded federal power.

Spoils System

The practice of rewarding political supporters with government jobs. It increased political patronage, led to corruption and inefficiency in government, and undermined meritocracy in government appointments.

Tariff Crisis

A dispute over protective tariffs on imported goods that highlighted sectional tensions between the North and South and raised concerns about states' rights.

Tariff of 1828 (Tariff of Abominations)

Imposed high taxes on imported goods, making foreign products more expensive and protecting domestic industries.

Nullification Crisis

A conflict between South Carolina and the federal government over the right to nullify federal laws within its borders.

Force Bill

A bill issued by President Jackson authorizing the use of military force to enforce federal law in South Carolina during the Nullification Crisis.

Compromise Tariff of 1833

A tariff that gradually reduced rates and eased the burden on Southern states, effectively defusing the Nullification Crisis.

American Temperance Society

An organization formed as part of the Temperance Movement to promote abstinence from alcohol.

18th Amendment

An amendment to the U.S. Constitution that prohibited the sale and production of alcohol.

Mormons

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, founded by Joseph Smith in 1830, with beliefs in the Book of Mormon as another testament of Jesus Christ.

Worcester v Georgia

A Supreme Court case that ruled in favor of the Cherokee Nation's sovereignty and their right to self-govern, but was ignored by President Andrew Jackson, leading to the forced removal of the Cherokee on the Trail of Tears.

Nullification

The idea that states have the right to nullify or reject federal laws they deem unconstitutional, popularized by John C. Calhoun and a source of tension between states' rights and federal power.

Wilmot Proviso

Proposed amendment to ban slavery in territories acquired from Mexico during the Mexican-American War. Never passed into law but sparked debates.

Whig Party

Political party opposing President Andrew Jackson, supporting strong federal government, internal improvements, and protective tariffs.

Trail of Tears

Forced relocation of Native American tribes to Indian Territory, resulting in deaths due to harsh conditions and disease.

Manifest Destiny

Belief in America's destiny to expand westward, spread democracy and capitalism.

Mexican-American War

Conflict between the US and Mexico over territorial disputes, resulting in significant US territorial gains and debates over slavery expansion.

Compromise of 1850

A series of legislative measures to address slavery in newly acquired territories from Mexico, intensifying sectional tensions. Included Fugitive Slave Act. Texas was a free state, borders with Texas were settled, and abolished slaves in DC.

Uncle Tom's Cabin

A novel by Harriet Beecher Stowe that exposed the cruelty of slavery and fueled anti-slavery sentiments.

Kansas-Nebraska Act

A law allowing territories to decide slavery through popular sovereignty, leading to violent conflicts in Kansas. and Bloody Kansas.