U.S. History Flashcards

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Whiskey Rebellion: The first major test of the federal government's power to enforce laws.

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Occurred in 1794 in western Pennsylvania, where farmers protested a tax on whiskey. President George Washington led troops to stop the rebellion, demonstrating that the new federal government could maintain order and enforce laws.

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Monroe Doctrine: A key foreign policy established in 1823 by President James Monroe.

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European powers were prohibited from colonizing or interfering with territories in the Americas. The United States viewed further European colonization as hostile acts. The doctrine declared the Western Hemisphere as a separate sphere of influence and helped establish the United States as a significant international power.

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Spoils System: A political practice popularized during Andrew Jackson's presidency.

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Government jobs were given to political supporters, replacing workers with people loyal to the winning political party. This system meant positions were awarded based on political connections rather than merit and was criticized for promoting corruption in government.

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Political Changes During the Age of Jackson: Popularity Reasons.

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Andrew Jackson was portrayed as a champion of common people, expanded voting rights to more white males, challenged traditional political elites, and was seen as a war hero from the Battle of New Orleans.

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Political Changes During the Age of Jackson: Unpopularity Reasons.

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Jackson forced Native Americans from their lands, supported slavery, implemented policies harmful to Native American communities, and enacted controversial economic policies.

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Trail of Tears

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Forced relocation of Native American tribes (Cherokee, Choctaw, Creek, Chickasaw, Seminole) between 1830-1850. Native American tribes were forced to move from southeastern United States to Oklahoma. Thousands died during the journey due to disease, starvation, and harsh conditions. This resulted from the Indian Removal Act signed by Andrew Jackson in 1830.

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Formation of Political Parties

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Early parties were Federalists and Democratic-Republicans. These parties developed during George Washington's presidency and disagreed about the role of federal government, states' rights, and economic policies. They eventually evolved into modern Democratic and Republican parties.

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Washington's Farewell Address

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Warned against permanent foreign alliances and forming strong political parties. Washington emphasized national unity, recommended neutrality in international conflicts, and set a precedent for future presidential behavior.

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Manifest Destiny

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Phrase coined by journalist John L. O'Sullivan in 1845. Manifest Destiny was the belief that the United States was destined to expand across North America. It justified territorial expansion, displacement of Native Americans, and drove westward expansion and acquisition of new territories.

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Oregon Territory Resolution

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Resolved through treaty with Great Britain in 1846. The Oregon Territory was divided at the 49th parallel. Settlers from the United States, Britain, and Canada moved to the region. Peaceful negotiation prevented potential war between the U.S. and Britain.