Early American History Quiz

Social structures in the New World were often more fluid and less rigidly stratified than in Europe, but also more restrictive based on factors like race or wealth.

The Mayflower Compact established a self-governing body for the Pilgrims in the New World, based on a social contract among settlers and was an early attempt at democratic governance.

Indentured servitude and early forms of slavery were prevalent labor systems in the New World, with varying conditions & treatment amongst different regions and groups.

New World settlers often sought economic opportunities as one of their primary goals, followed by religious freedom and/or land ownership.

Women in early American life had limited roles, typically focusing on domestic responsibilities and family life.

The colonists resisted various direct taxes imposed by the British, escalating tensions and creating divisions between the colonies and England.

The First Continental Congress aimed to address grievances against British policies, seek peaceful resolutions, and articulate colonial unity.

Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" was influential in galvanizing support for American independence by articulating the case for republican ideals and breaking down popular support for the monarchy.

The first governing document of the newly independent United States, establishing a weak central government with limited powers.

The meeting where delegates from the 13 states came together to create a new, stronger government, ultimately resulting in the U.S. Constitution.

A period of major economic changes in the U.S., largely driven by new technologies like canals and the steam engine, leading to increased production and trade.

The belief that the US was destined to expand its territory and influence across North America.

A new system of mass production, standardization, and interchangeable parts, dramatically increasing production efficiency.

A belief in the importance of individual freedom, self-reliance, and personal achievement in American society.

Opposition to immigration and favoring native-born Americans.

A religious revival movement in the early 19th century that emphasized personal conversion and social reform.

Generally believed in limited government and more power to the common people.

Compromise to admit Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state, maintaining a balance in the Senate.

Complete end of slavery in the US, viewing it as morally wrong.

North focused on industry and free labor; South relied on agriculture and slave labor.

Compromise to avert conflict but ultimately heightened sectional tensions.

Southern society before the Civil War, largely defined by its reliance on slavery and a hierarchical social structure.

Lincoln initially opposed the expansion of slavery but wasn't necessarily for immediate abolition.

New technology and industrialization transformed warfare, leading to massive casualties and scale.