Welcome to American History! This course takes you on a journey through the fascinating story of the United States. We'll explore how a collection of colonies became a global superpower, examining the people, events, and ideas that shaped this nation from 1600 to today.
Colonial America began with the founding of Jamestown in 1607. Over the next century and a half, thirteen distinct colonies emerged along the Atlantic coast. The Northern colonies focused on trade and manufacturing, the Middle colonies developed agriculture and commerce, while the Southern colonies built their economy on plantation agriculture using enslaved labor.
The American Revolution began in 1775 as tensions escalated over British taxation without colonial representation in Parliament. Key events like the Boston Tea Party in 1773 sparked resistance. The Declaration of Independence in 1776 formally announced American independence, and after years of warfare, victory at Yorktown in 1781 secured American freedom.
The Civil War from 1861 to 1865 was the defining conflict of American history, fought over slavery and states' rights. The Union's victory preserved the nation and led to the abolition of slavery. The Reconstruction era that followed attempted to rebuild the South and integrate freed slaves into American society through constitutional amendments and federal oversight.
Modern America emerged as a global superpower through the challenges and triumphs of the 20th and 21st centuries. From surviving two World Wars and the Great Depression to leading the space race and ending the Cold War, America has continuously evolved. The Civil Rights Movement expanded equality, while technological innovations have transformed society and connected the world.