Unit 1 US History Notes & Study Guide
Colonial America and Early Republic
Early European Settlement & Colonial Governance
Early European settlement in North America was shaped by factors influencing colonial government ideas, leading to colonists' reactions to new taxes.
Declaration of Independence
Congress declared independence due to various factors, with foundational ideas laid out in the Declaration of Independence.
Constitutional Convention & Ratification
The Articles of Confederation's weaknesses necessitated compromises during the Constitutional Convention. This led to debates over its ratification and the establishment of its principles.
Early Federal Government
The early federal government saw the rise of a two-party system, the importance of the Louisiana Purchase, and the War of 1812.
Antebellum Period and Civil War
Andrew Jackson's Presidency
The presidency of Andrew Jackson was marked by key issues and events.
Slavery & Escalating Tensions
Slavery in the territories became a divisive issue, addressed by the Compromise of 1850. Tensions escalated further with the Kansas-Nebraska Act and John Brown's raid.
1860 Election & Secession
The 1860 election (candidates and results) prompted Southern states to secede, culminating in the outbreak of the Civil War.
War Strategies & Lincoln's Proclamation
The North and South utilized distinct resources and strategies. Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation significantly altered the war's objectives, impacting the economies and societies of both sides.
Reconstruction
Post-War Reorganization
Reconstruction followed the war, addressing the need to reorganize the South.
Reconstruction Plans & Johnson's Impeachment
Plans from Lincoln, Johnson, and Congress each had strengths and weaknesses, leading to Johnson's impeachment and Republicans gaining control of Southern state governments.
Freedman's Bureau & Economic System
The Freedman's Bureau aided freed people's adjustment to freedom amidst the South's new economic system, which significantly impacted poor farmers.
African American Rights & Federal Response
Efforts to limit African American rights spurred federal responses, but Reconstruction eventually ended.
End of Reconstruction & Legacy
Reconstruction yielded both successes and failures. African Americans experienced significant changes in the South, facing white-created segregated societies, to which they responded in various ways.