THE CIVIL WAR
What date did the Civil War begin?
April 12, 1861
During which years did the Reconstruction Period take place?
1865 — 1877.
What was the main reason American colonies sought independence from Great Britain? (Give one clear reason.)
Colonists objected to British taxation without representation, control by Britain, and restrictions on colonial self-government
What was the primary route of the Oregon Trail? (Name the general starting region and ending region.)
The primary route went from the Midwest (e.g., Missouri — St. Louis or Independence) across the Great Plains to the Oregon Country (Pacific Northwest).
What was one major advantage the North (Union) had over the South (Confederacy)?
Industrial strength/manufacturing, larger population, more railroads and factories, stronger navy (any one).
What was the main goal of Reconstruction?
To rebuild the Southern states and integrate formerly enslaved people into society as full citizens (politically, economically, and socially).
Who was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence?
Thomas Jefferson.
Approximately how many pioneers traveled the Oregon Trail? (Give an approximate whole-number estimate.)
Roughly 200,000 pioneers
Which side had most of the experienced military leaders at the start of the war?
The South (Confederacy) had many of the early experienced military leaders (e.g., Robert E. Lee, Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson).
Which president created the "10 Percent Plan" for Reconstruction?
President Abraham Lincoln created the "10 Percent Plan."
According to the Declaration of Independence, where does a government get its power?
Governments get their power from the consent of the governed (people).
What term describes the belief that America was destined to expand across the continent?
"Manifest Destiny."
What was the purpose of the Union blockade?
To prevent the South from trading with other nations, to cut off supplies and weaken Confederate economy (blockade the ports).
The Freedmen's Bureau was established to: (Give one primary purpose.)
The Freedmen's Bureau provided food, medical care, education, legal help,
How many grievances against King George III were listed in the Declaration of Independence?
The Declaration lists 27 specific grievances
Which act offered free land to settlers in the Oregon Territory? (Name the act.)
The Donation Land Claim Act (or the Homestead Act — note: the Homestead Act of 1862 offered free land more broadly; the Donation Land Claim Act of 1850 applied specifically to Oregon Territory)
Why did the Civil War last so long? (Give two reasons.)
Reasons include: deeply rooted disagreements over slavery and states' rights, strong resources and manpower on both sides, challenging geography and logistics, and powerful leaders prolonging campaigns.
Which amendment gave citizenship to all people born in the United States? (Name the amendment by number.)
The 14th Amendment
Which patriot was known for having the largest signature on the Declaration of Independence?
John Hancock (famous for his large, prominent signature).
How long did the journey on the Oregon Trail typically take? (Give months or approximate length.)
Typically about 4 to 6 months (depending on pace and conditions).