Continuity and Change in Period 3 (1754-1800)

Continuity and Change in Period 3 (1754-1800): AP US History Study Guide

Alright, history trailblazers, let's jump into the time machine and head back to Period 3 (1754-1800). This era was like America’s teenage years: full of rebellion, growth, and a few awkward moments. It’s the time where we see America fight for its independence, set up its government, and deal with some serious growing pains. So, grab your powdered wigs and muskets, and let’s dive in!

The American Revolution wasn't just some spat between the colonies and Great Britain; it was the epic break-up that launched a new nation. Imagine the thirteen American colonies looking at Britain and saying, "It's not me, it's you," and then throwing the tea overboard. The signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 made it official: America was breaking free like a teenager moving out of the house. The Revolution wasn’t just about cutting ties with Britain; it was about planting the seeds of democracy that would grow into the United States.

One of the most significant changes during this period was inventing a whole new government. When the Articles of Confederation proved about as sturdy as a house of cards, the Founding Fathers hit the reset button. In 1787, they gathered in Philadelphia and drafted a new constitution. Say hello to federalism! The Constitution set up a strong federal government with three branches: executive, legislative, and judiciary—a bit like the ultimate rock-paper-scissors game to balance power. George Washington became the first president in 1789, making him the Beyoncé of the Founding Fathers. 🎤

While America was flexing its new muscles and showing off its shiny new government, some not-so-great practices stayed the same. For instance, slavery was like that one bad habit America couldn’t kick, especially in the South where it was economically entrenched. Despite some Northern states beginning to abolish slavery, it continued right up until the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865. Think of it as America finally quitting a very bad habit, but it took a long, long time.

Native American populations also faced continuity in the worst possible way: displacement and mistreatment. European settlers kept moving westward faster than hungry ants at a picnic, leading to numerous conflicts. Policies like the Indian Removal Act of 1830 (which is technically outside our timeline but part of the same sad saga) forced Native Americans from their homes, continuing a grim tradition of displacement that started with European colonization.

Even post-Revolution, America couldn’t catch a break from conflicts with European powers. The French and Indian War set the stage, and tensions with Great Britain led to the American Revolution. In the 1790s, George Washington’s Proclamation of Neutrality aimed to keep the US out of the Napoleonic Wars between France and Great Britain, because, honestly, America had more than enough on its plate. But staying neutral was like trying to sit at the cool kids’ table without getting dragged into their drama—it wasn’t easy.

Period 3 was a whirlwind of change and continuity. The American Revolution was a huge turning point, leading to the establishment of the United States and setting in motion new democratic ideals. Yet, the persistence of slavery and the mistreatment of Native American populations showed that not all change is fast or easy. The new Constitution created a framework of federalism and democracy, while the US continued to deal with challenges from European powers, making foreign relations a constant tightrope walk.

• American Revolution: The fight for independence from 1765 to 1783, where thirteen colonies gave Britain the boot and founded the USA.
• Federalism: Divided power between a central government and state governments, much like sharing a pizza without hogging all the slices.
• Neutrality: Staying out of other countries’ beef, an admirable but tricky stance.
• Slavery: A system where people were treated as property—one of the darkest stains on US history.
• Native American: The indigenous people of North America who faced relentless displacement and conflict.
• Displacement: Forcibly moving people from their homes, often seen during conflicts and expansion.
• Bicameral: A two-chambered legislature, basically Congress's double-decker bus.
• Democracy: Government by the people, for the people. Think of it as a big group project, but way more important.
• Napoleonic Wars: Conflicts between France under Napoleon and various European coalitions; less about pastries, more about battles.
• Thirteenth Amendment: Passed in 1865, this erased slavery but not the struggles that followed.

1. What fueled the economic growth during 1754-1800, and how did expansion shape America?
2. How did the institution of slavery impact the budding United States?
3. What were the big ideas of the American Revolution, and how did they frame the nation?
4. How did Native Americans respond to increasing European settlers, and what were the outcomes?
5. What roles did women play in society, and how did their fight for equality evolve?
6. How did the arguments between Federalists and Anti-Federalists mold the US Constitution?
7. What were the effects of the Napoleonic Wars on America?
8. How did neutrality policy shape America's foreign affairs?
9. Why were the Articles of Confederation replaced, and what can we learn from their limitations?
10. What was the impact of the Thirteenth Amendment on American life and culture?

So, there you have it! Period 3 in American history was like an episode of "Extreme Makeover: Nation Edition," with dramatic changes and some stubborn continuities. Understanding this period is crucial for grasping how the United States evolved from a bunch of rebellious colonies into a fledgling nation with a unique identity. Now, go forth and conquer your APUSH exam with the vigor of a Revolutionary soldier and the wisdom of the Founding Fathers! 🇺🇸💪