Colonial Beginnings and Early American History

Colonial Beginnings

  • Three main cultures: White, Black, Red. Limited racial mixing.

  • Early exploration fueled by resources: fur, fish, faith.

  • Columbus' triangular trade: North American resources to Europe, enslaved Africans to North America.

Settlement of Jamestown (1607)

  • Jamestown named after King James I; first permanent English settlement.

  • John Smith plays a key role; survives and expands the colony.

  • John Rolfe introduces tobacco as lucrative cash crop, marries Pocahontas for propaganda.

  • Indentured servants: young men (15-25 years old); few women.

  • Africans chosen for labor due to lack of local knowledge.

Bacon's Rebellion (1675)

  • Nathaniel Bacon leads a rebellion against Native attacks.

  • Successful in protecting land, but later burns Jamestown.

  • Rebellion leads to more oppressive laws for Black slaves.

Plymouth Colony (1620)

  • Established by Pilgrims seeking religious freedom; Mayflower Compact formed.

  • Harsh conditions lead to high mortality; alliance with natives.

Enlightenment Period (1600s-1700s)

  • Emphasis on rights and freedoms, literacy increases.

  • John Locke's idea of "tabula rasa".

Causes of American Revolution

  • French and Indian War increases colonial tensions.

  • Taxation acts (Sugar Act, Stamp Act) inspire unity against Britain.

Key Events Leading to Revolution

  • Boston Massacre (1770): escalated tensions.

  • Tea Act (1773): leads to Boston Tea Party; protests against taxes.

Continental Congress

  • First (1774) and Second (1775) Congress convened; efforts to unify colonies.

  • Lexington and Concord: first military engagements, use of guerrilla tactics.

Declaration of Independence

  • Drafted by Thomas Jefferson; heavily influenced by John Locke.

  • Sectioned into preamble, natural rights, grievances, resolution.

Revolutionary War Battles

  • Key battles: Bunker Hill, Trenton, Saratoga (turning point), Yorktown (British surrender).

  • French support crucial for patriot victory.

New Government Formation

  • Articles of Confederation create a loose confederation with states holding power.

  • Shays' Rebellion reveals weaknesses; leads to constitutional convention.

Constitution

  • Great Compromise establishes bicameral legislature.

  • Three branches of government to ensure checks and balances.