Colonization
What was the primary motivation for the establishment of Jamestown in 1607?
Economic opportunity, specifically the search for gold and trade.
What was the main purpose of the Declaration of Independence?
To declare the colonies' independence from Britain and explain the reasons for doing so.
What is the supreme law of the land?
The Constitution of the United States.
Who was the first President of the United States?
George Washington.
What was the concept of Manifest Destiny?
The belief that Americans were destined to expand across the continent.
Which European country established the first permanent settlement in North America?
Spain, with St. Augustine in 1565.
Who wrote the pamphlet "Common Sense" and what was its influence?
Thomas Paine; it persuaded many colonists to support independence from Britain.
What are the first ten amendments to the Constitution called?
The Bill of Rights.
What was the purpose of the Lewis and Clark expedition?
To explore the newly acquired Louisiana Territory and find a route to the Pacific Ocean.
What was the significance of the Oregon Trail?
It was a major route for settlers moving westward to Oregon in the 1840s.
What was the Mayflower Compact, and why was it significant?
It was an agreement signed by the Pilgrims to create a government and is significant for establishing self-governance.
What was the significance of the Battle of Saratoga?
It was a turning point in the war that secured French support for the American cause
What is the purpose of the system of checks and balances?
To prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.
What was the significance of the War of 1812?
It confirmed American independence and fostered a sense of national unity. Built domestic manufacturing.
What was the impact of the Gold Rush on California?
It led to a massive influx of settlers and rapid population growth, eventually leading to statehood.
What were the main cash crops grown in the Southern colonies?
Tobacco, rice, and indigo.
What treaty ended the American Revolution?
The Treaty of Paris (1783)
Who is known as the "Father of the Constitution"?
James Madison.
What economic system did Alexander Hamilton promote?
A strong central bank and a system of tariffs to support American industry.
What was the Indian Removal Act of 1830?
A law that authorized the forced relocation of Native American tribes to lands west of the Mississippi River.
What was the impact of the Columbian Exchange on the Americas?
It introduced new crops and livestock to the Americas, while also bringing diseases that devastated indigenous populations.
What were the main grievances listed in the Declaration of Independence?
Taxation without representation, lack of trial by jury, and the presence of British troops in the colonies.
What was the Great Compromise?
An agreement that established a two-house legislature, with representation based on population in the House and equal representation in the Senate.
What was the Monroe Doctrine?
A policy that warned European nations against further colonization in the Americas
What was the outcome of the Mexican-American War?
The U.S. acquired a large amount of territory, including present-day California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.