The Colonial Era Flashcards
Britain won the French and Indian war, but it cost them colonies bc of deep debt & misguided policies (19 cards)
What was the Mayflower Compact?
An agreement between the people on the Mayflower to create and obey laws
It is considered a founding document for the present republic.
What key concepts did the Mayflower Compact introduce?
Diversity and rule of law
These concepts were present from the very early stages of American history.
What types of diversity were present in the early colonies?
- Racial
- Economic
- Climactic
- Linguistic
- Religious
True or False: The United States began experiencing diversity at a specific later time.
False
The idea that diversity started at a certain time is incorrect.
How were the early colonies oriented?
They were oriented back to England rather than to each other
This created a ‘crazy-quilt’ collection of colonies.
Name an example of religious diversity in early America.
- Quakers in Pennsylvania
- Roman Catholics in Maryland
- Puritans in New England
What were some examples of economic diversity in the early colonies?
- Fishing
- Farming
- Land Speculation
- Pitch/Tar
- Indigo
- Rice
List some languages spoken in early America.
- English
- German
- French
- Irish
- African languages
What racial groups were present in early America?
- African
- European (English, Irish, French, Spanish)
- Native American
What was the main conflict in the French and Indian War?
Between the English (with colonists) and the French
Native American tribes switched sides for political and trading interests.
What was the strategic importance of the Mississippi River?
It provided access and control for trade, especially the Ohio River
The Ohio River is a major tributary of the Mississippi.
What advantage did the Ohio River provide?
A trading advantage in western Pennsylvania
Its connection with the Mississippi was significant.
What action did England take to manage its debt after the war?
England aggressively taxed the colonies to pay back the debt
This taxation led to significant discontent among the colonists.
How did the colonists react to being taxed without representation?
The colonists were upset about being taxed when they did not have representation in parliament
This sentiment was a key factor leading to the American Revolution.
What military experience did George Washington gain during the war?
George Washington got some military experience, even though he was not very successful
This experience was crucial for his later leadership in the American Revolution.
What was the impact of George Washington’s military experience?
GW led the Continental Army to victory during the American Revolution
His leadership was instrumental in the success of the American cause.
What was prohibited after the war to avoid further conflict?
Further expansion west
This prohibition was an attempt to maintain peace with Native American tribes.
What reaction did the prohibition on westward expansion provoke?
A growing ‘American’ identity
This shift marked the transition from British subjects to self-identifying Americans.
What impact did a growing American identity have on the colonists?
A sense of patriotism would bring the Americans together to fight against the British in the Revolution
This shared identity was crucial in unifying the colonies during their struggle for independence.
