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Independence Day
Independence Day, famous on July 4th, marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Authored by Thomas Jefferson, the document disclosed the thirteen colonies' break-up from British rule, compelled by a desire for self-governance. The Continental Congress decided on independence on July 2nd, and the proclamation was adopted two days later. Today, the era is distinguished by fireworks, parades, and festivities, recognizing freedom and the country with its government values. -
Constitution of the US
The U.S. Constitution, approved in 1788, is the foundational document that outlines the combined government's makeup and its friendship with states and villagers. Created during the Constitutional Convention, it settled the break-up of powers and individual rights, containing the Bill of Rights. Comprising a preamble, seven items, and 27 amendments, it serves as a living document, directing the nation's societies and evolving over occasion -
Constitution Ratified
The U.S. Constitution was affirmed on June 21, 1788, after an extreme debate among the United States of America. Drafted at the Constitutional Convention in 1787, it wanted approval from nine states to occur. Federalists advocated for a powerful national power, while Anti-federalists. and concerns about tyranny and the lack of a Bill of Rights. The promise of future corrections ultimately insured ratification, fixing the Constitution as the supreme law based on customs or traditions -
First President
George Washington became the first president of the U.S. on April 30, 1789, taking commission in New York City. Elected consistently by the Electoral College, he settled key precedents, containing the composition of a Cabinet and a two-term limit. His leadership and obligation to the social unit helped shape the presidency and set the organization for future heads. -
Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights, approved in 1791, consists of the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, designed to keep individual liberties and limit management power. Born from concerns that a powerful central government might violate citizens' rights, it guarantees fundamental privileges like speech, religion, and assembly, in addition to protection against unwarranted searches and vicious punishments. By definitely outlining these rights, the Bill of Rights placed the foundation for America. -
Louisiana territories
The Louisiana Territory, collected in 1803 through the Louisiana Purchase, doubled the proportion of the United States, stretching from the Mississippi River to the Rocky Mountains. This $15 million purchase facilitated westward expansion, accompanying explorations by Lewis and Clark mapping its possessions and agricultural potential, significantly influencing the nation's growth. -
Slave trade
In 1808, the U.S. prohibited the importation of enslaved people, marking a significant moment in the transatlantic slave trade. However, illegal trafficking persisted to satisfy the labor needs of southern plantations, underscoring the growing moral and political conflicts surrounding slavery. -
War of 1812
The War of 1812 was fought between the U.S. and Great Britain from 1812 to 1815. It began due to trade restrictions and the impressment of American sailors. Major events during the war include the burning of Washington, D.C., and the American victory at the Battle of New Orleans, which showcased the resilience of the American people. The war ended in a stalemate with the signing of the Treaty of Ghent. Despite this, it helped promote national unity and laid the groundwork for future expansion. -
Mexican-American War
The Mexican-American War took place from 1846 to 1848 and was started by territorial disputes following the U.S. addition of Texas. Important battles, like the Battle of Palo Alto, showcased the military strength of the U.S. The war ended with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which resulted in the U.S. gaining large territories, including California and New Mexico. This expansion reignited debate over slavery and deepened the division between the North and South, setting up the Civil War. -
Compromise of 1850
The Compromise of 1850 was made to lower tensions over slavery. It allowed California to enter the Union as a free state and gave territories of New Mexico and Utah the right to decide for themselves whether to allow slavery. The compromise also included a stricter Fugitive Slave Act and ended the slave trade in Washington, D.C. While it proved a short-term solution and temporarily lessened conflict, it increased the divide between the North and South, laying the groundwork for future disputes.