Colonial Settlements
What was the main reason Native American populations fell sharply after Europeans arrived?
Disease brought by Europeans, violence, and forced displacement.
What was the name of the agreement the Pilgrims signed to set up self-government in Plymouth?
Mayflower Compact
What problem did the Three‑Fifths Compromise solve at the Constitutional Convention
It determined how enslaved people would be counted for representation and taxation—counted as three‑fifths of a person.
In his Farewell Address, why did Washington warn the nation to avoid permanent alliances with European powers?
Because the U.S. was young and geographically distant; alliances could draw the nation into dangerous European conflicts.
What belief held that Americans were destined to expand across the continent?
Manifest Destiny
Which type of farming and what labor system became common in the Southern colonies and increased demand for enslaved Africans?
Plantation agriculture of crops like tobacco and rice using enslaved labor.
Which war between Britain and France in North America increased British debt and led to tighter British control and taxes on the colonies?
The French and Indian War
Define federalism in one sentence.
Federalism is a system that divides power between a national (federal) government and state governments.
What did Alexander Hamilton want to establish a national bank?
To help our nation get out of debt, and get our finances in order.
What did the Indian Removal Act of 1830 authorize the federal government to do?
Remove Native American tribes off of their land, often by force.
Which European country focused on fur trade and allied with many Native American groups in North America?
France
How did the initial colonial experience of local self-government help set the expectation that lead to demands for independence?
Colonial legislatures and town meetings taught colonists to expect representation and local control. Once the British took control it meant that they had their previous rights taken away.
Which founding document includes the phrase “all men are created equal” and lists life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness?
Declaration of Independence
Why did Thomas Jefferson oppose the creation of a national bank?
He argued the Constitution did not give the federal government that power (strict interpretation)
What was the Trail of Tears?
The forced relocation of the Cherokee and other tribes to Indian Territory, causing many deaths and great suffering.
What was the historical significance of the Virginia House of Burgesses?
The first example of people picking their own leaders, in the new world.
The Declaration of Independence says governments must have "consent of the governed". What is the meaning of this phrase?
The idea that humans must make an agreement to live together under certain rules for the common good.
Which Supreme Court case established the power of judicial review?
Marbury v. Madison
Name one precedent set by George Washington that later presidents followed.
Serving only two terms; creating a presidential Cabinet; enforcing federal laws like in the Whiskey Rebellion.
Give one benefit and one concern about the Louisiana Purchase
Benefit: Doubled U.S. territory and secured control of the Mississippi River and New Orleans.
Concern: The large new territory raised questions about how it would be governed and whether slavery would expand.
Explain using your own words, the economic systems of the New England, Middle, and Southern colonies
New England—rocky soil and coast led to fishing, shipbuilding, and trade.
Middle— grain growing on open plains
South—warm climate and fertile land promoted large plantations grown by enslaved labor
Give two specific complaints (grievances) the colonists listed in the Declaration of Independence.
unfair taxation, no representation in government, quartering of troops, lack of privacy, etc.
Explain checks and balances and give one clear example of how one branch checks another
Checks and balances let each branch limit the others to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful.
Example: The president can veto laws passed by Congress; Congress can override a veto with a two‑thirds vote.
How did the debates between Hamilton and Jefferson contribute to the formation of what?
They led to the formation of the first political parties (Federalists vs. Democratic‑Republicans)
Explain the FULL historical context that lead up to the secession crisis.
As the U.S. added territory, Northerners and Southerners clashed over whether those areas would be free or slave states. Compromises (like the Missouri Compromise) delayed conflict but made the issue a persistent political fight, increasing distrust and polarization between regions. Once Lincoln became president, the South worried he would abolish slavery. South Carolina left the union, which started the secession debate/crisis.