US History Final Exam Semester 1 Study Guide PDF

US HISTORY Study Guide Final Exam Semester 1 Topics: Causes of the American Revolution: Taxation and Representation Key Events Leading to Independence: Boston Massacre to the Declaration of Independence Major Battles and S...

US HISTORY Study Guide Final Exam Semester 1 Topics: Causes of the American Revolution: Taxation and Representation Key Events Leading to Independence: Boston Massacre to the Declaration of Independence Major Battles and Strategies of the American Revolution The Role of Women and Minorities in the Revolution The Articles of Confederation and the Constitutional Convention Causes of the American Revolution: Taxation and Representation The American revolution was when the American colonies fought to become an independent country, free from British rule. This started because colonists felt they were being treated unfairly, with things like the Stamp Act that lead to the Boston Tea Party. This made them decide to break away from the British government. ❖ Taxation without representation: Stamp Act(1765): The stamp act put tax on all printed materials, including newspapers, legal documents, and playing cards. This increased the price for these items. Sugar Act(1764): The Sugar Act taxed sugar, molasses, and other goods imported to the American colonies. Increased the price of their items. Currency Act(1764): The currency act prohibited colonists from issuing new paper money, only using money given by Britain. This limited access to paper money. ❖ Intolerable Acts When it comes to taxation without representation acts, colonists thought it was wrong for Britain to make them pay taxes without letting them have a say in how the money was used. They had many conditions placed on them because of these acts as well that limited their freedom and rights. ❖ The French And Indian War The French and Indian War was a conflict between the French and the British, both of which had claimed lands in the Ohio River Valley. It’s the French and Indian War because the French and Huron Native Americans were allied against the British. This war wore down the British troops and so many large taxes were pressed onto the colonies in order to compensate for the efforts of the war.  ❖ Role of the British Government and Crown The British government, led by king george lll, sought to maintain control over the colonies, leading to a series of unpopular policies and the eventual outbreak of war. The legislative body of the British empire, which passed the controversial laws and taxes that fueled the colonists’ resentment and drive for independence. ❖ Enlightenment Ideas Enlightenment thinkers such as John Locke, inspired the colonists with ideas of natural rights, individual liberty, and the right to resist unjust rule. ❖ Boston Massacre This deadly clash between British soldiers and colonial protests in boston, which left five colonists dead, further inflamed tensions and galvanized support for the revolutionary cause. Key Events Leading to Independence: Boston Massacre to the Declaration of Independence ❖ The Stamp Act (1765): It was the first internal tax levied directly on American colonists by the British Parliament. The British needed to station a large army in North America as a consequence and on 22 March 1765 the British Parliament passed the Stamp Act, which sought to raise money to pay for this army through a tax on all legal and official papers and publications circulating in the colonies. The law applied to wills, deeds, newspapers, pamphlets and even playing cards and dice. Enacted in November 1765, the controversial act forced colonists to buy a British stamp for every official document they obtained. The stamp itself displayed an image of a Tudor rose framed by the word “America” and the French phrase Honi soit qui mal y pense–“Shame to him who thinks evil of it.” The colonists greeted the arrival of the stamps with violence and economic retaliation. ❖ Boston Tea Party(1773): Boston Tea Party, (December 16, 1773), incident in which 342 chests of tea belonging to the British East India Company were thrown from ships into Boston Harbor by American patriots disguised as Mohawk Indians. The Americans were protesting both a tax on tea (taxation without representation) and the perceived monopoly of the East India Company. The Boston Tea Party was a significant event that helped accelerate and intensify colonial support for the American Revolution. ❖ The Intolerable Acts (1774): Boston Port Act: This act closed the port of Boston until the East India Company was compensated for the tea destroyed during the Boston Tea Party, severely impacting the economy of the city. Massachusetts Government Act: This act altered the Massachusetts charter, reducing self- governance and giving more power to the royal governor, which angered colonists who valued their local governance. Administration of Justice Act: This act allowed royal officials accused of crimes in Massachusetts to be tried in other colonies or in Britain, which the colonists believed would lead to unfair trials and justice being denied. Quartering Act: This act required colonists to provide housing and supplies for British troops stationed in the colonies, which many saw as an invasion of their rights and privacy. Quebec Act: this act expanded Quebec's territory and granted religious freedom to Catholics, which alarmed Protestant colonists and was seen as a threat to their land claims. ❖ The First Continental Congress(1774): The First Continental Congress began under British rule in September 1774. Comprising 56 delegates from 12 of the original 13 colonies, the group met in Philadelphia and lasted less than two months. It focused mainly on how to respond to the British Parliament’s passage of the Intolerable Acts This convention, the First Continental Congress, formally declared that colonists should have the same rights as Englishmen; they also agreed to form the Continental Association, which called for the suspension of trade with Great Britain. The Continental Congress established an army, a navy and a post office, and issued currency. “In this manner, and without hesitation, the Continental Congress began to assume legislative and executive responsibility.” It adopted the Articles of Association, which initiated a boycott of British goods by the colonies. ❖ The Battles of Lexington and Concord(1775): The Battles of Lexington and Concord on 19 April 1775, the famous 'shot heard 'round the world', marked the start of the American War of Independence (1775-83). Politically disastrous for the British, it persuaded many Americans to take up arms and support the cause of independence. The battles of Lexington and Concord occurred due to MA Governor Thomas Gage ordering British troops to confiscate colonial weaponry stored at Concord. Colonists and Patriots heard of Gage's plan and organized militia groups to intercept the British and protect colonial interests. The Lexington and Concord battles were important because they effectively led the Patriot colonists and British forces into the American Revolutionary War (April 19, 1775 to September 3, 1783) and the United States being an independent country from England. ❖ Major People Samuel Adams: Samuel Adams was a leader of the American Revolution, organizing resistance against British policies and helping to ignite the spark of independence with events like the Boston Tea Party. His leadership in the Sons of Liberty and the Continental Congress played a significant role in uniting the colonies against British rule. He laid the foundation for American independence. George Washington: George Washington served as the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army, leading American forces to victory against the British with his exceptional strategic skills and unwavering determination. His leadership during crucial battles, such as the crossing of the Delaware River and the siege of Yorktown, was crucial in securing American independence. After the war, he became the first President of the United States. Thomas Jefferson: Thomas Jefferson was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence, properly addressing the colonies' reasons for seeking freedom from British rule. His vision of a society based on equality, individual rights, and democratic principles greatly influenced the founding ideals of the United States. Jefferson's contributions extended beyond the Revolution, as he later served as the third President of the United States. Paul Revere: Paul Revere is best known for his midnight ride, during which he alerted colonial militias of the approaching British forces, allowing them to prepare for the battles of Lexington and Concord. His efforts in organizing intelligence and communication networks were crucial to the early successes of the Revolution. Patrick Henry: Patrick Henry was a passionate and influential orator, best known for his declaration, "Give me liberty, or give me death!" which inspired many to join the fight for independence. His fiery speeches and strong advocacy for individual rights helped to garner support for the Revolution. Henry played a key role in the Continental Congress, pushing for decisive action against British oppression. Benjamin Franklin: Benjamin Franklin was a leader who played a crucial role in securing French support for the American Revolution through his diplomacy and charm. His contributions to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution was instrumental in shaping the new nation. His efforts in building alliances and promoting unity among the colonies were vital to the success of the Revolution. Major Battles and Strategies of the American Revolution Battle of Lexington and Concord: Significance - First Armed Conflict: Marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War on April 19, 1775. - Symbol of Resistance: Demonstrated the willingness of the American colonists to fight for their rights and independence. - Unity Among Colonists: Brought together various colonial militias and fostered a sense of unity against British rule. - Increased Support for Independence: The battles galvanized support for the revolutionary cause, leading to more enlistments in the Continental Army. Strategies Used by American Leaders: - Intelligence and Communication: Use of the "Midnight Ride" by Paul Revere and others to warn colonists about British troop movements. - Effective communication networks established among the colonies to share information quickly.  - Guerrilla Tactics: American forces employed hit-and-run tactics, ambushing British troops, and using the terrain to their advantage. - Mobilization of Militias: Leaders like John Parker rallied local militias to respond quickly to British advances, emphasizing local defense. - Concentration of Forces: American leaders coordinated efforts at Concord to gather troops and resources, creating a larger force to confront the British. Battle of Bunker Hill: Significance - Psychological Victory: Although technically a British victory, the heavy British casualties (over 1,000) demonstrated that colonial forces could stand up to the British army. - Boosted Morale: The battle, fought on June 17, 1775, inspired confidence among American forces and supporters of the revolution. - Increased Recruitment: The battle encouraged more volunteers to join the Continental Army, strengthening the American military effort. - Strategic Positioning: Highlighted the importance of controlling key positions around Boston, leading to further military actions. Strategies Used by American Leaders - Defensive Positioning: American leaders, including Colonel William Prescott, fortified Breed's Hill, providing a strong defensive position against British assaults. - Limited Ammunition: American forces used their ammunition strategically, famously instructed to "not fire until you see the whites of their eyes" to conserve bullets for maximum impact. - Use of Militia: The battle involved a mix of regular troops and militia, showcasing the ability to mobilize local forces effectively. - Tactical Retreat: After running low on ammunition and facing overwhelming British forces, American leaders executed a strategic withdrawal, preserving their army for future engagements. Battle of Trenton: Significance - Surprise Victory: The Battle of Trenton occurred on December 26, 1776, and was a crucial surprise attack that boosted American morale after a series of defeats. - Revitalization of the Army: The victory inspired confidence and renewed enlistment in the Continental Army, which was struggling with low morale and expiring enlistments. - Turning Point in Recruitment: The success at Trenton encouraged many soldiers to re-enlist and attracted new recruits, helping to stabilize the American forces during a critical time. - Strategic Importance: The victory helped secure a foothold in New Jersey, allowing the Continental Army to threaten British control in the region. Strategies Used by American Leaders - Surprise Attack: General George Washington planned a surprise attack on the Hessian forces stationed in Trenton, choosing to strike on the day after Christmas when soldiers were likely to be unprepared. - Crossing the Delaware: Washington led his troops across the icy Delaware River on the night of December 25, facing harsh weather conditions, which contributed to the element of surprise.  - Coordination and Timing: Washington coordinated with his officers to ensure that the attack was executed swiftly and effectively, maximizing the surprise factor and exploiting the Hessians' vulnerabilities. - Rapid Assault: The American forces executed a rapid assault on the Hessian garrison, overwhelming them before they could mount an organized defense, leading to a decisive victory. Battle of Saratoga: Significance - Turning Point of the War: The Battles of Saratoga (September 19 and October 7, 1777) are often considered the turning point of the American Revolutionary War, as they marked the first major American victory against the British. - French Alliance: The American victory convinced France to formally ally with the colonists, providing crucial military support and resources that would be pivotal in the war. - Boosted Morale: The victory lifted the spirits of the American forces and supporters, encouraging enlistments and strengthening the resolve to continue the fight for independence. - Diplomatic Recognition: The success at Saratoga increased international support for the American cause, leading to greater recognition of the legitimacy of the revolution. Strategies Used by American Leaders - Intelligence and Planning: American forces, under General Horatio Gates and Benedict Arnold, gathered intelligence on British movements and devised a plan to counter their advance. - Use of Terrain: The Americans utilized the terrain effectively, engaging in hit-and-run tactics and ambushes, which capitalized on their knowledge of the local landscape. - Concentration of Forces: American leaders coordinated a consolidation of troops, bringing together militia and Continental Army forces to create a larger, unified fighting force. - Siege Warfare: After the initial engagements, the Americans laid siege to British General John Burgoyne's forces, cutting off supplies and reinforcements, ultimately forcing their surrender. Battle of Yorktown: Significance - Decisive Victory: The Battle of Yorktown (September 28 – October 19, 1781) was the last major battle of the American Revolutionary War, leading to British surrender. - End of Major Hostilities: Marked the effective end of British military operations in the colonies and paved the way for negotiations leading to peace. - Global Impact: The victory boosted American morale and attracted global attention, encouraging other nations to support the American cause. - Treaty of Paris: Set the stage for the Treaty of Paris (1783), which formally recognized American independence. Strategies Used by American Leaders - French Alliance: Collaboration with French forces led by General Rochambeau, who provided critical military support and naval power.  - Siege Warfare: American and French troops employed a siege strategy, surrounding British General Cornwallis's forces and cutting off their escape routes. - Control of the Chesapeake: The French fleet, under Admiral de Grasse, gained control of the Chesapeake Bay, preventing British reinforcements and supplies from reaching Cornwallis. - Coordinated Assaults: Leaders like General George Washington coordinated a combined land and naval assault, effectively trapping British forces at Yorktown. The Role of Women and Minorities in the Revolution ❖ Abigail Adams: - Advocated for women's rights in her letters to John Adams. - Urged her husband to "remember the ladies" when forming new laws. - Provided political insight and support, influencing discussions on governance. ❖ Deborah Sampson: - Disguised herself as a man to enlist in the Continental Army as "Robert Shurtliff." - Fought in several battles and demonstrated remarkable bravery. - Challenged gender norms by serving alongside male soldiers. ❖ Mercy Otis Warren - Wrote plays and pamphlets that criticized British rule and rallied support for independence. - Served as a political commentator, influencing public opinion on the war. - Authored "History of the Rise, Progress, and Termination of the American Revolution," documenting the conflict. ❖ Phillis Wheatley - Used poetry to express themes of freedom and the American struggle for independence. - Wrote a poem honoring George Washington, highlighting the revolutionary cause. - Became a prominent literary figure, representing African American voices in the movement. ❖ Betsy Ross - Credited with sewing the first American flag, symbolizing the colonies' fight for independence. - Her flag design became an emblem of unity and patriotism during the war. - Represented women's contributions to the war effort through craftsmanship and symbol creation. The Articles of Confederation and the Constitutional Convention What are the Articles of Confederation? - The Articles of Confederation served as the first constitution of the United States, adopted in 1777. - It established a weak central government with limited powers, primarily focusing on:   Conducting foreign affairs.  Managing war efforts. - The states retained most of the power, leading to significant challenges in governance. - Weaknesses of the Articles:  Inability to Levy Taxes: The federal government could not collect taxes, relying on voluntary contributions from states.  Regulation of Commerce: The government lacked the authority to regulate interstate and foreign trade, leading to economic difficulties.  Unanimous Consent Required: Any amendments to the Articles required the agreement of all thirteen states, making it nearly impossible to enact necessary changes. What is the Constitutional Convention? - The Constitutional Convention took place in Philadelphia in 1787, initially intended to revise the Articles of Confederation. - Delegates from twelve of the thirteen states gathered to discuss and address the weaknesses of the Articles. - Key Decisions Made:  The delegates quickly recognized that mere revisions would not suffice and opted to draft an entirely new constitution.  The U.S. Constitution emerged from this convention, establishing a federal system with a robust central government. Structure of the U.S. Constitution: - The Constitution created a federal government with three branches to ensure a system of checks and balances:  Executive Branch: Headed by the President, responsible for enforcing laws.  Legislative Branch: A bicameral legislature (House of Representatives and Senate) responsible for making laws.  Judicial Branch: Interprets laws and ensures they align with the Constitution. Importance of the Constitutional Convention: - The Convention was pivotal in shaping the future of the United States, leading to:  The drafting of the U.S. Constitution, which replaced the Articles of Confederation.  Establishment of a stronger federal government capable of addressing the needs of a growing nation.  Implementation of a system of checks and balances to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful. - The Constitution laid the foundation for the United States' political system and has adapted over time to reflect changing societal needs and values, including amendments that protect individual rights and ensure equality. Remember: - The shift from the Articles of Confederation to the U.S. Constitution marked a significant transition in American governance. - Understanding the weaknesses of the Articles helped frame the discussions and decisions made during the Constitutional Convention. - The Constitution remains a living document, essential to the functioning of U.S. democracy.