Colonies
How did geography influence the economic differences between New England and the Southern colonies?
New England = trade/industry (poor soil), South = agriculture (fertile land)
What was the main complaint in “no taxation without representation”?
Colonists had no voice in Parliament
Why was the Articles of Confederation ineffective?
Weak central government (no taxation power, etc.)
What was the primary goal of the Louisiana Purchase?
Control Mississippi River/trade
What was the main economic difference between North and South?
Industry vs agriculture
Why was the Mayflower Compact significant to democratic development?
Established self-government based on majority rule
Why did the Boston Massacre increase anti-British feelings?
Propaganda made British seem violent/oppressive
How does federalism limit government power?
Divides power between national and state governments
How did Manifest Destiny impact Native Americans?
Forced removal and loss of land
Why did Southern states secede?
Protect slavery/states’ rights
Explain how mercantilism caused tension between Britain and the colonies.
Colonies restricted economically → resentment over trade limits
Why was the Battle of Saratoga a turning point?
Gained French support
Why was the Great Compromise necessary?
Resolved large vs small state representation conflict
Why was the Industrial Revolution important to U.S. growth?
Increased production, urbanization
How did the Emancipation Proclamation change the war?
Moral cause + allowed Black soldiers
Which colonial region MOST relied on enslaved labor and WHY?
Southern colonies due to plantation agriculture
Compare Loyalists vs Patriots motivations.
Loyalists = stability/Britain; Patriots = independence/rights
Explain how checks and balances prevent abuse of power.
Each branch can block others
Compare Jacksonian Democracy to earlier democracy.
Expanded voting to more white males
Why was Reconstruction considered a failure by some historians?
Rights not fully protected; segregation followed
Why did salutary neglect contribute to the American Revolution?
Colonies became used to self-rule → resisted British control later
Analyze this idea: “Governments derive their power from the consent of the governed.”
Why is this revolutionary?
Power comes from people, not monarchy
Which principle is shown when the Supreme Court declares a law unconstitutional—and why is it important?
Judicial review; ensures Constitution is followed
Evaluate: Was westward expansion more beneficial or harmful? Support with evidence.
Must include both economic growth AND harm to Native Americans
Analyze: How did the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments attempt to redefine freedom?
End slavery, grant citizenship, voting rights