Colonial America
What was the main idea behind Mercantilism?
Colonies existed to provide raw materials and wealth for the mother country.
Why did colonists oppose the Stamp Act?
It taxed them without representation or their consent in Parliament.
What idea explains why many Americans moved westward during the 1800s?
Manifest Destiny: the belief that Americans were destined to expand across the continent.
Why did South Carolina secede after the election of 1860?
It feared Abraham Lincoln would restrict slavery.
Why did imperialists support U.S. expansion overseas?
For economic markets, military strength, and national prestige.
What difficulties threatened the survival of Jamestown in its early years?
Starvation, disease, lack of skilled labor, poor relations with Native Americans, and harsh environmental conditions.
What is the principle of popular sovereignty?
The idea that government gets its power from the consent of the people.
What led to the rise of Manifest Destiny in the 1840s?
Nationalism, economic opportunity, population growth, and belief in American cultural superiority.
Why was the Battle of Antietam significant?
It stopped Confederate momentum and discouraged European recognition of the Confederacy.
Why did anti-imperialists oppose U.S. imperialism?
They believed it violated democratic principles and could entangle the U.S. in foreign conflicts.
What disagreements led to Bacon's Rebellion?
Conflict between frontier settlers and colonial elites over protection from Native Americans, high taxes, and political power
What was required for the ratification of the United States Constitution?
Ratification by 9 of the 13 states, with many demanding a Bill of Rights for protection of liberties.
How did the First Transcontinental Railroad increase interconnectedness?
It linked eastern and western markets, sped travel, and expanded trade.
Why was the Chinese Exclusion Act passed?
Due to anti-Chinese prejudice and fears over job competition.
What was the purpose of the Open Door Policy?
To ensure equal trading access in China for American businesses.
What was the main cause of the French and Indian War?
Territorial disputes between Britain and France over the Ohio River Valley.
Why were the The Federalist Papers written?
To persuade states to ratify the Constitution by explaining and defending its principles.
How did westward expansion affect Native Americans in the 1800s?
It caused displacement, loss of land, warfare, and destruction of traditional ways of life.
What was Andrew Carnegie’s idea in the “Gospel of Wealth”?
Wealthy people had a responsibility to use their money to improve society.
How did the Roosevelt Corollary expand the Monroe Doctrine?
It justified U.S. intervention in Latin America to maintain stability.
Why did Britain issue the Proclamation of 1763?
To prevent colonial settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains and reduce conflict with Native Americans.
What caused the Nullification Crisis?
South Carolina claimed it could nullify federal tariffs it believed were unconstitutional.
How did the United States House of Representatives respond to abolitionist petitions in the 1830s?
By passing the Gag Rule, which automatically tabled antislavery petitions.
How did W. E. B. Du Bois promote social equality during the Progressive Era?
He advocated immediate civil rights and higher education for African Americans.
Why did the Palmer Raids occur?
In response to fears of communism and radical political movements during the First Red Scare.