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Period: to
Growth of a Nation (1776-1900)
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The 13 Colonies Declare Independence
The Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence, declaring freedom from Great Britain and proclaiming their unalienable rights to the natural laws of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. -
Constitution Ratified by Congress
Following ratification by the state of Virginia, the first ten amendments to the U.S. constitution, known as the Bill of Rights, become the supreme law of the land. -
United States Purchases Louisiana Territory from France
Although controversial, President Thomas Jefferson purchases France’s claim to the territory of Louisiana for a total sum of 15 million dollars for 828,000 square miles. -
United States Gains Former Republic of Texas
Pro-slavery politics seeking to expand its territory successfully maneuvered the presidential election of 1844, which led to the approval of the Tyler treaty, allowing the annexation of the Lone Star Republic. -
United States Gains Oregon Territory
The United States and Great Britain sign the Oregon treaty to settle boundary disputes and allow the U.S. to expand its territory yet again. -
United States Signs the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
After about three months of war, Mexico concedes defeat and signs the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo with the United States; agreeing to sell 525,000 square miles of land. -
First Woman's Rights Convention held at Seneca Falls, New York
Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott hold the first woman's rights convention at Seneca Falls, New York; where they wrote the Declaration of Sentiments. -
Thirteenth Amendment is Passed
Slavery and involuntary servitude was abolished forever. With a vote of 119 to 56, the House of Representatives reached the two-thirds majority necessary to fulfill the campaign promise of the most beloved man in the country, President Lincoln.
