America Flashcards
What was the social tension resulting from the political situation 1781-87
Shays rebellion 1786, showed need for stronger g, dispersed by 1000 militia, riots Massachusetts assembly, farmers prisoners for not paying tax
1786 New Hampshire called out 2000 militia to disperse farmers, threatening the legislative after they promised paper money
Other disturbances in Vermont, pennsylvania, New York and Virginia
How was the government weak in the period 1781-87
No punishments, no power
Not in session often
Feared western states going independent, 1779 congress allowed western states
1785 land ordinance, land in west was divided and sold
1787 northwest ordinance, instructions on how to set up states
After independence declared states focused on themselves
Foreign policy on the political situation 1781-87
Spain, closed river for American use, jay wanted Spain market and wanted to give them 25 years of Mississippi River, angered American as ready to sacrifice
Britain, John Adams went to ask Britain to leave frontiers, Britain refused as Americans had not fulfilled either, Americans not payed back debt or given back loyalist property
Economic and financial trouble as a result of political situation of 1781-87
Morris, states wanted to tax themselves, congress rejected his Bank of America in 1784, finance minister 1781, wanted a central government bank which had a control of debt and import duties
1784 demands for congress to control trade, all states had different interests, industries needed tariffs, farmers needed free trade
Only income was sale of western lands, $760000 a yea
Rhode Island legalised paper money
Loss of imports from Britain
Commercial waters kept by states weakened USA
Not all bad, new markets, interstate trade dismantled 1780s
Debt, 1783 debt was $41 million both foreign and home, hadn’t payed soldiers
Paper money led to inflation, 1787 7 states had paper money
The American nationalism for a demand stronger national government
Inspired constitutional reform
National heroes
Sense of American
Symbols, 1782 bald eagle, 1777 Stars and Stripes
What was the conservative nationalism demand for a stronger national government
No faith in common people
Power in wealthy for a stronger government
What was the support for the articles of confederation in contrast to the need of a stronger national government
Wanted state powers
The articles worked well, independence, middle ground of self-government with preservation of liberty, gave states responsibilities
How did interstate disharmony change at the demand for a stronger national government
Disputes ended by 1787
1782-85 all states put duties on imports, affected all commerce, raised revenue
1786 New England introduced duties to protect itself
States put themselves first
What was the Virginian and Maryland agreement for the demand for a stronger national government
Dispute over river
1780s national government powerless
1784 madison proposed meeting
1785 agreed states should cooperate on financial and customs policies
Madison saw the effectiveness
Proposed a resolution to the Virginia assembly
What did the proposition from the Virginian and Maryland agreement lead too and what did it do
Annapolis meeting
1786 12 men met representing 5 states
Discussed commercial problems
Congress called after shays rebellion
Proposed a redraft in Philadelphia 1787
Agreed reform was necessary
Madison thought it was hopeful
Was too small to be representative
What was the influence of madison in the Philadelphia convention
Madison knew what was needed
‘Views of the political system of the us’ 1787, need for powerful republic with a centralised government
Who were the delegates of the Philadelphia convention
No Jefferson or Adams, envoys to Britain and France
25th may 1787, 29 delegates from 7 states
What were the principles of the founding fathers
Balanced government
Everyone should have a voice
No ideological rift
All wanted a strong national government
Not many against state sovereignty
Name three key men of the Philadelphia convention
Morris(not the finance guy)
Madison
Wilson
What were the economic motivations of the delegates at the Philadelphia convention
If strong national government, fathers get a lot of money from certificates in public credit, however some of the biggest holders were against a stronger national government, do limitations
Fathers represented the richest group
What was the Virginian plan at the Philadelphia convention
Madison drafted constitution
2 houses which were based on population
First house elected by workers
Legislative had large powers, elect judiciary and executive
Central government could veto state legislative
What was the New Jersey plan as a result of the Philadelphia convention
Small states opposed Virginian plan
Patterson put forward new draft where every state had one vote
Congress could tax, regulate commerce , so states preserved authority
Was rejected by convention
What was the great compromise at the Philadelphia convention 1787
All states in the senate (upper house) would have one vote, lower house ( House of Representatives) would have votes proportional to population
Direct taxation could be distributed according to results of regular censuses
What was the issue of north vs south at the Philadelphia convention
Slavery
South wanted slaves in population not included for tax
North wanted slaves not in population but for tax
Compromise, a slave was included for tax and counted as 3/5 of an American
What was the name of the committee in charge of producing a draft of the constitution
A committee of detail
What was agreed about slavery in the Philadelphia convention
Northern delegates wanted trade to end
Georgia aNd Carolina Delegates said if slave trade impaired in constitution, they won’t accept
North more concerned over securing a settlement than ending trade
Some southern delegates wanted trade to end, so their slaves would be worth more
Agreed congress couldn’t touch the slave trade till 1808
What were the powers of the federal and state governments
Federal government could have an army, make and borrow money, make treaties with foreign, could levy taxes and regulate commerce(last two were new), make laws and any law superior to any state law(new)
States forbidden from starting war, engaging in diplomacy, coining money and laying duties on imports
States retained some power, slavery left too states, each state determined its own suffrage in elections to House of Representatives, states could regulate internal commerce, states exercised jurisdiction in many important areas of civil and criminal law
The federal executive
Would be exercised by a president
He was to be commander in chief of the army and navy
He could make important appointments, like judges
He could conclude treaties ( with senate)
His signature required to make acts of congress law
He could veto acts of congress, veto could be overridden by 2/3 vote of both houses
Could only be removed on impeachment( crime)
Four year term through electoral college
Federal legislature
House of Representatives and the senate were congress
House was all voters for two year term
Senate two senators from each state, serve 6 years, 1/3 elected every two years
Congress could raise money, make laws, declare war, ratify treaties(2/3 of senate had to agree) and veto president with 2/3 vote
The federal judiciary
Agreed independent national judiciary
A Supreme Court, appointed by president with approval of senate
How could the constitution be amended
Required 2/3 majority in each house of congress and 75 % of each state
What were the criticisms of the constitution in 1787
Represented a conservative backlash
Electoral college between people and president
Senators owe their office to state election so no direct vote
Six year terms give senators immunity from pressure
House of Representatives would represent areas as large as 30000, half of Delaware
Two year term was twice as long as most state assemblyman
A lot of criticisms of each area since
Boundaries of state and federal power unclear
Senate became way more powerful than the house
Constitution was 4000 words, the supreme courts interpretation of it is 450 volumes
What was the praise for the constitution 1787
Washington approved
Franklin agreed
Afraid of central control, creates system of checks and balances, executive vs legislative vs judiciary, house vs senate, federal vs state, popular vs indirect election
Was a blueprint
What did the Philadelphia convention outline as the method to ratify the constitution
Had to be ratified by nine states not all 13
Sent to state conventions not legislatures
What was federalists vs anti-federalists
Supporters of constitution called themselves federalists Ironic as constitution took away from state power
Anti constitution was anti-feds gave them a negative role
Federalists supported by men of property, anti fed was farmers
Every major town had fed majority
Anti feds new of 1780s problems but saw constitution as worse
Criticisms were, claimed convention exceeded its mandate to replace articles, feared a national government would destroy sovereignty of states, argued state legislatures were more representative than congress could be, many angered over no bill of rights(protected liberties)
Feds feared anarchy if failed
Fed advantages
Even tho majority of voters against constitution
Feds gave a actual solution to problems, anti Feds had no alternative
Fed support big in towns where state conventions were
Support from two most famous men Washington and franklin
Anti fed across farms not united
Vast majority of papers were fed owned only 5 out of 100 against constitution
What were the first five states to ratify the constitution
Delaware
New Jersey
Georgia
Pennsylvania
Connecticut
The case of Massachusetts ratifying the constitution
Sam adams and John Hancock favoured anti fed
Feds put pressure on them, Boston artisans persuades Adams, Hancock became fed at suggestion of a Vice Presidency
Won over after bill of rights promised
What was the issue with Virginia ratifying the constitution
Opposing forces were balanced, Henry’s attack on constitution, Henry lee ‘letters from a federal farmer’
Madisons reasoned advocacy helped plus his promise for a bill of rights
They ratified
New York issue on ratifying the constitution
When they met, hamilton thought 4/7 people were against the constitution
Hamilton Madison and jay, wrote under publius a series of 85 articles urging constitution, became a classic but did not really influence contemporary opinion
What was the development of republicanism
Paines common sense introduced it, defined as the public good or good of the whole, implied government of everyone who
Appropriate after rejecting British tyranny
What was elitists vs democrats
Democrats, broad franchise, no property requirements
Elites wanted old style
What was the state constitutions
Adams said all states must adopt one
Nearly all reduced property requirements
Principles of republicanism
Patterned of a colonial model
Some places like Virginia the elite can out on top
1776-80 all but two had state constitutions
What were the politics in the states 1777 onwards
They were in charge of trade
Problem of loyalism, needed an oath for the constitution otherwise ban from profession
Finance problem, New York suffered as Britain still occupied it, had to tax a lot, paper money caused inflation
How did the states develop politically towards the freedom of religion in the 1780s
1786 Jefferson’s act for establishments for religious freedom, made religion private
What were the articles of confederation
Proposed in 1774 by Dickinson
Prior congress had no power
Maryland finally ratified 1781
The articles had no power to tax states, 9 states needed for treaties, congress could raise armies, declare war, all states had one vote, there were annual terms
What were the problems of national government from 1777 to 1781
By 1777 small executive boards ran war
No currency as it failed in 1781
No tax, left poor states weak, inflation increased due to war
Only in session sometimes
Had a bad future, confederation by states not people, war had unified without it problem unifying
What was the social impact of slavery after the war
Left untouched in 1787 constitution to keep union safe
Questioned over human liberty
South, few saw as evil, made up 90%, 1771 manumission laws(owners could free slaves)
North, 1781-83 massa banned slavery, 1771 Massachusetts banned trade with Africa, 1777 Vermont abolished slavery in constitution, ideology increased anti
What was the social impact the war had on black people
Promised freedom of fought for Britain, 30000 left as a result, over 3000 gained land in West Indies
1790s 60000 free
Washington banned from army 1775, lifted in 1777 for manpower
What was the social impact on women as a result of war
20000 in army
Became head of the household
The war of independence brought more equality
Indentured servants disappeared
Rich and poor united
Outward social difference gone
The war did not bring equality socially
Limited effects
American leaders saw classes as inevitable
Indentured service was declining already before war
What was the social impact on natives as a result of the war
1784 treaties gave land to America
No sympathy was shown
What were the social impact of the war on men
Many poor men took part in protest
By 1783 over 80000 loyalists emigrated for Britain
What was the positive economic impact of the war
Seized $18 million of Britain
No more navigation acts, Europe
What were the negative economic impact of the war
Did not have Britain as a trading partner
Trade was devastated by blockades
What was the result of the 7 year war in 1763-4
Stronger imperial authority
Colonies didn’t pay much
Bute said 1763 that there should always be 10000 British troops, Pontiac rebellion, Americans get threatened
What was the 1763 proclamation
Banned America from moving west, 30000 ignored by 1768, Britain admitted defeat
What was the currency act 1764
Banned paper money
Angered Americans as couldn’t pay debts
What was the sugar act
1764
Taxed unrepresented Americans
Caused shift in relations with parliament
Duty on products
Only affected New England
Americans feared standing army
How was the sugar act recalled
1765 recalled act
9 colonies argued
1764 Otis said no tax without representation
What angered Americans 1763-4
Currency act 1764
Stamp act 1764
Proclamation 1763
The reaction to 7 years war
Anti smuggling measures
What were the anti smuggling measures
Colonial customs in America
If caught sent to vice admiralty court, undermined Americans
Grenvilles plan, wanted spending reduced and tax increased
What was the stamp act
Announced feb 1765 internal tax on 50 products, gave too much time for opposition
Lighter tax than England
Only would raise £60000 in one year
What was the American reaction to the stamp act through the Virginian resolves
Only Americans can tax Americans
1765 Henry, house of burgesses
8 colonies followed
Passed 7 resolutions against act, threatened resistance
What was the American reaction to the stamp act through mob action
Element of class
Began by Sam adams and the loyal nine in Boston, sons of Liberty
Stamp collectors forced to resign, no one to collect money
Effigies of Oliver and Bute hung from liberty tree, Oliver quickly resigned
What other reactions from Americans to the stamp act were there
1765 boycott on British goods
Affected more people than sugar act
Stamp act congress, 9 colonies denounced the act
What was the repeal of the stamp act
Declaratory act, make sure colonies are aware of sovereignty
America took it well
Grenville didn’t want to repeal
1765 America was against the stamp act not British rule
Marquis of rockingham feared action so repealed, gage was concerned
What were the townshend duties
1767 external tax on goods
Put more power in British customs in Boston
Only 40000 a year
What was the New York restraining act
Townshend wanted the quartering act enforced in NY in 1765 to fix the problem of military accommodation
New York refused
New York restraining act 1767, NY no action till accept, lacked help from other colonies
When did townshend die
1767 so never dealt with consequences
What was the social response to the townshend duties
Sons of liberty reformed
Dickinson ‘letters of a Pennsylvania farmer’ 1768, tax with no consent, condemned the acts on the NY assembly
Americans feared the new American customs, 1768 sons of liberty controlled Boston
What was the political response to the townshend duties
1768 Massachusetts sent out a circular letter asking for action, from Sam adams and Otis, 7 colonies approved
Virginia sent out letter too
Secretary of State, governor bernard dissolved Massachusetts assembly, Bernard asked for troops, 600 men armed, caused tension
1771 committees of correspondence, after repeal, by 1773 over 50, unified colonies
What was the economic response to the townshend duties
Committees introduced to enforce the boycott of goods
All Americans felt they could take part
1768 boycott all goods, not all merchants took part as there was an economic boom
By 1769 every colony except New Hampshire pledged to boycott British goods
Boston massacre
1770
British troops were antagonised and opened fire, Sam Adams claimed it was on purpose
6 out of 8 were aquitted by John Adams
Repeal of the townshend duties
1770 north took over and removed all except tea, as a mark of parliament sovereignty
Townshend duties did not help financially
Led to 3 years of calm, suggest everything’s good
How far did the American ideology change through the townshend duties
Burke MP said it doesn’t matter whether external or internal
Americans felt sorry for Wilkes
What was the American disunity after the townshend duties
Disputes over boundaries and land, NY and New Hampshire
Tensions rich and poor
1768 regulator movement began in North Carolina moved to south, against corruption of tidewater officials, regulators were crushed 1771 at battle of alamance
What was the tea act and the reaction
1773
Aimed to save the east India company
Imposed on Americans
Saw as destroying independence
Violence was threatened, tea agents forced to resign
Boston tea party, 1773 sons of liberty threw £10000 tea into Boston harbour, angered parliament
What was the reaction to the Boston tea party
Coercive acts 1764
Tea party had challenged parliamentary authority
Boston was blocked from trade until all tea was paid for
Massachusetts government act allowed royal governor to appoint and remove most civil officials, town meetings had to have his permission
Impartial administration of justice act provided for the transfer to Britain of murder trials
Quartering act was enforced
Gage was made governor of Massachusetts
What act angered the Americans after Boston tea party
Quebec act 1774
ill timed effort to solve problem of french inhabitants
Seen as confirmation of evil British
Act placed authority with governor without an assembly, suggested to Americans Britain will do this
Extension of Quebec boundary south and west to Ohio looked like blocking expansion of colonies
What was the economic response to coercive acts
Boston called for boycott until Boston port act was repealed
Boston committee of correspondence drafted a solemn league and covenant committing to a boycott, not all merchants convinced, harm america more than Britain and hard to enforce
What was the political response to the coercive acts 1774
Governors dissolved any assembly who denounced the coercive acts, Virginia, by summer 1774 7 dissolved
89 delegates met to denounce the port act
Continental congress, declared coercive acts null, promised non-importation till repeal under the continental association, declaration of rights and grievances, denied parliamentary authority
What was the social response to the coercive acts
1775 42 newspapers
1774 Jefferson said Britain had no authority
1774 independence was discussed in pamphlets such as John Adams in the Boston gazette
What were committees of safety
1774 committees of safety established after continental association, some organised by old elite
Mandate to enforce boycott
Acted as local governments
By 1775 7000 colonists were directly involved
What was the situation in Massachusetts in late 1774
1774 British authority gone
The authority of the provincial congress began preparing for war
Militia units trained
Gage asked for 20000 troops
By 1775 what was the situation in other colonies
Extra legal conventions had taken over traditional authority
Arms and ammunition were stockpiled
New Hampshire seized cannons and arms from British forts
NY still mostly loyal to Britain
Most wanted to still be with Britain only few wanted independence
What was the British determination in 1774-5
1774 gage wrote to north that he should suspend coercive acts, north didn’t
Saw colonies as in state of rebellion
Only 4000 troops sent to America
Some politicians tried, Chatham bill 1775 repeal of coercive acts, Burke offered repeal of all legislation to Americans
North introduced a conciliation plan but it only promised parliament would not tax any colony paying the cost of its own civil administration, Americans did not accept it
1775 Massachusetts declared in state of rebellion, by April extended to most colonies
What happened at Lexington and concord
Gage was ordered to arrest leaders
Sent 700 to colonel smith in concord, to seize rebel arms, and arrest leaders of provincial congress
Massachusetts militia informed before hand by Revere, member of committee of safety
British troops blocked by 70 minutemen at Lexington, 8 colonists killed, British continued, they failed to arrest leaders, on the way back to Boston Americans shot at them, by the time at Boston they had 273 casualties, America only lost 92, then 20000 militia besieged Boston within a week
What was the effect of Lexington and concord
Galvanised military preparations
Conservative Pennsylvania voted for 4300 men
Benedict Arnold seized fort ticonderoga
What and when was the second continental congress
Met 1775 in Philadelphia
65 from all 13 colonies
Congress took charge of war, asked each colony to raise continental army of 20000
Congress voted to issue $2 million in paper money to finance
Why was Washington elected to command the continental army
He had military experience in 7 years war
Southern meant colonial unity
What were the efforts at reconciliation
Many colonies sent delegates to reconcile
Declaration of causes and necessities of taking up arms
Olive branch petition to George 3, he ignored it, ordered all rebellions to be suppressed
Describe the events of bunker hill
1775 b officers arrive, Howe Clinton and Burgoyne
Howe led frontal assault lost 1000 of 1500
Realised rebels were strong
How did Washington take command of the army
July 1775
Only 15000 poorly trained men
Fewer 50 cannons
Lacked any military order
Incompetent officers were removed
Introduced flogging
Boston 1775-6
Washington wanted to attack, feared destruction
Britain had 9000 army inside, more than besiegers
British evacuation of Boston 1776, cannons from Ticonderoga transported 300 miles to point overlooking boston, howes army with 1000 loyalists evacuated Boston to Nova Scotia
What happened in Canada 1775
Americans Arnold and Montgomery invaded Canada 1775
Americans retreated
Montgomery was killed
War in the south 1775-6
Dunmore promised freedom to any slaves who helped Britain, solidified American support in south
British attacked Virginian coastal towns
Loyalists attacked too quick
How did ‘common sense’ aid independence
Sold 120000
Paine argues events meant independence was the only option
Attacked parliament and the king
The situation in early 1776
1775 congress set up committee of secret correspondence to carry out diplomacy with foreign nations
1776 royal governors replaced by rebel governments, congress had all the power (practically independent)
Congress couldn’t give independence as needed colonial conventions, 1776 local organisations urged congress to declare independence
Virginia first colony to propose independence
How did John Locke influence the independence
1600s
If king does not act for his people, the people have the right to overthrow him
Denied the existence of the divine right of kings
Influenced Jefferson
Situation in congress over independence
Henry lee proposed independence
Set up committee to draft declaration
What work did Jefferson do for the Declaration of Independence
Drew ideas from Locke
Case against king in ‘a summary view of the rights of British America 1774’ and 1776 Virginian constitution
His draft was approved by committee
How was independence declared
Mid June Delaware supported
Only NY refused
Jefferson sent draft to congress June, nine in favour, by July 12/13 accepted
1776 July independent
What was and what was in the Declaration of Independence
A legal justification for rebellion
People had right to change government as Locke said
Listed all wrongdoings since 1763
George 3 was accused of absolute tyranny
Britain mobilised 32000 troops
By 1776 how important were economic factors behind independence
Trade grievances were only mentioned once in declaration
America benefitted of mercantilism
Americans were hardly taxed
The principle of taxation caused opposition
How important was ideology in independence
Colonists saw themselves as English so should have the same rights
If Englishmen has to be taxed with consent so did Americans
Americans believed Englishmen wanted to destroy them
To what extent was British policies at fault for independence
Britain tried to squeeze money from Americans, sped up independence
Parliament was undermined 1765 and 1767
After Boston tea party, north became stubborn
What defence is there of british policies as a cause for independence
Understandable Britain didn’t expect a rebellion
1765 little indication of anger
Britain was demonised for no good reason
Parliament had sovereignty
America was a valuable resource to Britain
America used excessive violence
By what year were all 13 colonies introduced and what were the three groups they were split into
1732
New England, middle colonies, southern colonies
Who were the colonies made up of
400000 emigrated
Scot-Irish - 150000
Indentured servants
African slaves, by 1763 350000 90% in south
Native Americans
By 1760 only half English
How were colonies ran
Most had governors appointed by king
Propriety colonies, ran by family
Corporate colonies, charters which gave extensive autonomy
Limited as could be dismissed, dependant on revenue from colonial assemblies
How were colonial assemblies made up
Two houses, upper house appointed by governor, lower elected, responsible for money
50% of white men voted
Not democratic, not many owned property, women and slaves no vote
What was the British rule in colonies
Charters linked
Parliament had to review colonial law for it to be approved, only 5% of 8500 were disallowed
Responsibility was in board of trade, also Secretary of State
British lacked central control
What was salutary neglect
Britain found it hard to communicate with colonies 4800 km away
Not a major issue pre 1763 as parliament gave little attention
Apart from trade parliamentary acts did not really affect colonies
How did the American colony grow by 1770
More colonial trade
Trade with Britain
Capital from Britain
New land and industries
Up to 3.2%
What was the importance of agriculture and fishing to the American economy
9/10 of population farmed
New England had poor soil so fished
Tobacco made up southern economy, £14 million - £100 million by 1770
What was mercantilism
Belief colonies existed to serve British economy
1651-1673 trade acts established an English monopoly, all cargos to or from colonies had to be in English ships, enumerated commodities had to be shipped to england first, anything sent to America went through Britain
Britain remained mercantilist 1700s
By 1763 nearly everything was an enumerated commodity
Laws for manufacturing, woollen act 1699 forbade export of wool, hat act 1732 banned beaver hats, iron act 1750 banned colonial iron leaving empire
What were the effects of mercantilism
Few Americans complained
Navigation acts wanted high duties but these were not collected
Poor paid deputies could be bribed
Lord Halifax president of the board of trade, wanted tighter control 1761 did not work as smuggling
The acts against exports didn’t do much
By 1770s colonies produced more than Britain
Mercantilism benefits, protected market, exclusion of foreign ships
By 1760s 1/3 of British imports crossed Atlantic
How was colonial society structured
Wealthy elite in each colony, lacked prestige of British autocracy
Wealth in land
80% of free males were farmers
Black slaves at the bottom
Big split rich and poor
What was the American education like by 1763
75% males literate
9 universities
30 newspapers
How did the great awakening effect the American culture
Priest swept through america talking of a more personal relationship with god
Aroused a democratic spirit with the idea everyone has a soul
Overstated and did not challenge the authority
What were the 4 wars between 1689-1763
War of the league of Augsburg 1689-97
War of Spanish succession 1702-13
War of Austrian succession 1740-48
Seven years war 1756-1763
How did the war of Austrian succession affect colonists
Britain did not send help to the colonies
English colonists outnumbered french 15:1
Colonists captures louisbourg in 1745
Treaty of aix-la-Chapelle 1748 gave it back to french, angered colonists
What was the Albany congress
1748 truce
Only 500 British troops in America, board of trade knew Britain had good native support
Colonists failed to get alliance with iroquois in 1754
Adopted scheme for inter colonial confederation
Franklin’s plan of union , elected a colonial parliament, to have authority over tax and native affairs and army, colonies ignored it
What was the importance of fort Duquesne
1753-54 Virginian planters set up Ohio company, secured grant from Britain of 200000 acres in trans-Allegheny
French began to build forts in this area
Washington discovered fort Duquesne
British sent Braddock and 2000 men, on the way there Braddock was killed
What was the seven years war
1756 Britain declared war on France
French general took fort William in 1757, showed earl of London could not make colonists unite in defence
Assemblies did not care about threat to remote colonies
Pitt became prime minister 1757, saw victory as way to expand power
Sent 25000 troops and paid for 25000 colonists to fight
Pitt gave subsidies to Frederick the great of Prussia to preoccupy France in Europe
1758 Britain captured louisbourg
1759 Britain captured Guadeloupe, hawke destroyed french fleet, captured Quebec
1760 Amherst took Montreal
Terms on treaty of Paris 1763, Britain got Canada, Britain got Florida from Spain, Britain got french carribean islands, french lost Louisiana
What were the results of the seven years war
Britain worlds greatest power
War trained future officers
British and American officers disliked each other
Americans wanted to benefit from no french
As no french, colonies were not military dependent so set up future revolution
What was the political situation in parliament by 1763
House of Lords and commons
Commons was financial
Not democratic, 1761 only 215000 could vote, most unrepresented, rich landowners decided who to elect
What were british political parties like by 1763
Whigs and Tories, whigs opposed royal power, tories against radical change
George 1 and 2 favoured whigs
1760 whigs had little meaning, as everyone who mattered was a Whig, more of a political establishment
Tory party had little meaning, power shifted between those two
Led to instability 1760s
What were signs of a weakening relationship between America and Britain by 1763
13 colonies developing rapidly
1763 population growing, began to see themselves as not British
By 1763 colonies ran their own affairs
Colonies drift away from British control
Colonies knew of their economic power, and mercantilism annoyed them
After 1763 treaty, Britain had Canada so no fear from french, colonists were less dependant on Britain
Signs of a strong relationship by 1763 between Britain and France
Britain gave the colonies a lot of advantages
Most Americans were loyal to Britain, 25000 Americans joined against french
Americans still loyal to their own colony and Britain
1763 all colonies had their own self interests
1763 no one predicted split from Britain
Describe the events of bunker hill
1775 b officers arrive, Howe Clinton and Burgoyne
Howe led frontal assault lost 1000 of 1500
Realised rebels were strong
How did Washington take command of the army
July 1775
Only 15000 poorly trained men
Fewer 50 cannons
Lacked any military order
Incompetent officers were removed
Introduced flogging
Boston 1775-6
Washington wanted to attack, feared destruction
Britain had 9000 army inside, more than besiegers
British evacuation of Boston 1776, cannons from Ticonderoga transported 300 miles to point overlooking boston, howes army with 1000 loyalists evacuated Boston to Nova Scotia
What happened in Canada 1775
Americans Arnold and Montgomery invaded Canada 1775
Americans retreated
Montgomery was killed
War in the south 1775-6
Dunmore promised freedom to any slaves who helped Britain, solidified American support in south
British attacked Virginian coastal towns
Loyalists attacked too quick
How did ‘common sense’ aid independence
Sold 120000
Paine argues events meant independence was the only option
Attacked parliament and the king
The situation in early 1776
1775 congress set up committee of secret correspondence to carry out diplomacy with foreign nations
1776 royal governors replaced by rebel governments, congress had all the power (practically independent)
Congress couldn’t give independence as needed colonial conventions, 1776 local organisations urged congress to declare independence
Virginia first colony to propose independence
How did John Locke influence the independence
1600s
If king does not act for his people, the people have the right to overthrow him
Denied the existence of the divine right of kings
Influenced Jefferson
Situation in congress over independence
Henry lee proposed independence
Set up committee to draft declaration
What work did Jefferson do for the Declaration of Independence
Drew ideas from Locke
Case against king in ‘a summary view of the rights of British America 1774’ and 1776 Virginian constitution
His draft was approved by committee
How was independence declared
Mid June Delaware supported
Only NY refused
Jefferson sent draft to congress June, nine in favour, by July 12/13 accepted
1776 July independent
What was and what was in the Declaration of Independence
A legal justification for rebellion
People had right to change government as Locke said
Listed all wrongdoings since 1763
George 3 was accused of absolute tyranny
Britain mobilised 32000 troops
By 1776 how important were economic factors behind independence
Trade grievances were only mentioned once in declaration
America benefitted of mercantilism
Americans were hardly taxed
The principle of taxation caused opposition
How important was ideology in independence
Colonists saw themselves as English so should have the same rights
If Englishmen has to be taxed with consent so did Americans
Americans believed Englishmen wanted to destroy them
To what extent was British policies at fault for independence
Britain tried to squeeze money from Americans, sped up independence
Parliament was undermined 1765 and 1767
After Boston tea party, north became stubborn
What defence is there of british policies as a cause for independence
Understandable Britain didn’t expect a rebellion
1765 little indication of anger
Britain was demonised for no good reason
Parliament had sovereignty
America was a valuable resource to Britain
America used excessive violence
By what year were all 13 colonies introduced and what were the three groups they were split into
1732
New England, middle colonies, southern colonies
Who were the colonies made up of
400000 emigrated
Scot-Irish - 150000
Indentured servants
African slaves, by 1763 350000 90% in south
Native Americans
By 1760 only half English
How were colonies ran
Most had governors appointed by king
Propriety colonies, ran by family
Corporate colonies, charters which gave extensive autonomy
Limited as could be dismissed, dependant on revenue from colonial assemblies
How were colonial assemblies made up
Two houses, upper house appointed by governor, lower elected, responsible for money
50% of white men voted
Not democratic, not many owned property, women and slaves no vote
What was the British rule in colonies
Charters linked
Parliament had to review colonial law for it to be approved, only 5% of 8500 were disallowed
Responsibility was in board of trade, also Secretary of State
British lacked central control
What was salutary neglect
Britain found it hard to communicate with colonies 4800 km away
Not a major issue pre 1763 as parliament gave little attention
Apart from trade parliamentary acts did not really affect colonies
How did the American colony grow by 1770
More colonial trade
Trade with Britain
Capital from Britain
New land and industries
Up to 3.2%
What was the importance of agriculture and fishing to the American economy
9/10 of population farmed
New England had poor soil so fished
Tobacco made up southern economy, £14 million - £100 million by 1770
What was mercantilism
Belief colonies existed to serve British economy
1651-1673 trade acts established an English monopoly, all cargos to or from colonies had to be in English ships, enumerated commodities had to be shipped to england first, anything sent to America went through Britain
Britain remained mercantilist 1700s
By 1763 nearly everything was an enumerated commodity
Laws for manufacturing, woollen act 1699 forbade export of wool, hat act 1732 banned beaver hats, iron act 1750 banned colonial iron leaving empire
What were the effects of mercantilism
Few Americans complained
Navigation acts wanted high duties but these were not collected
Poor paid deputies could be bribed
Lord Halifax president of the board of trade, wanted tighter control 1761 did not work as smuggling
The acts against exports didn’t do much
By 1770s colonies produced more than Britain
Mercantilism benefits, protected market, exclusion of foreign ships
By 1760s 1/3 of British imports crossed Atlantic
How was colonial society structured
Wealthy elite in each colony, lacked prestige of British autocracy
Wealth in land
80% of free males were farmers
Black slaves at the bottom
Big split rich and poor
What was the American education like by 1763
75% males literate
9 universities
30 newspapers
How did the great awakening effect the American culture
Priest swept through america talking of a more personal relationship with god
Aroused a democratic spirit with the idea everyone has a soul
Overstated and did not challenge the authority
What were the 4 wars between 1689-1763
War of the league of Augsburg 1689-97
War of Spanish succession 1702-13
War of Austrian succession 1740-48
Seven years war 1756-1763
How did the war of Austrian succession affect colonists
Britain did not send help to the colonies
English colonists outnumbered french 15:1
Colonists captures louisbourg in 1745
Treaty of aix-la-Chapelle 1748 gave it back to french, angered colonists
What was the Albany congress
1748 truce
Only 500 British troops in America, board of trade knew Britain had good native support
Colonists failed to get alliance with iroquois in 1754
Adopted scheme for inter colonial confederation
Franklin’s plan of union , elected a colonial parliament, to have authority over tax and native affairs and army, colonies ignored it
What was the importance of fort Duquesne
1753-54 Virginian planters set up Ohio company, secured grant from Britain of 200000 acres in trans-Allegheny
French began to build forts in this area
Washington discovered fort Duquesne
British sent Braddock and 2000 men, on the way there Braddock was killed
What was the seven years war
1756 Britain declared war on France
French general took fort William in 1757, showed earl of London could not make colonists unite in defence
Assemblies did not care about threat to remote colonies
Pitt became prime minister 1757, saw victory as way to expand power
Sent 25000 troops and paid for 25000 colonists to fight
Pitt gave subsidies to Frederick the great of Prussia to preoccupy France in Europe
1758 Britain captured louisbourg
1759 Britain captured Guadeloupe, hawke destroyed french fleet, captured Quebec
1760 Amherst took Montreal
Terms on treaty of Paris 1763, Britain got Canada, Britain got Florida from Spain, Britain got french carribean islands, french lost Louisiana
What were the results of the seven years war
Britain worlds greatest power
War trained future officers
British and American officers disliked each other
Americans wanted to benefit from no french
As no french, colonies were not military dependent so set up future revolution
What was the political situation in parliament by 1763
House of Lords and commons
Commons was financial
Not democratic, 1761 only 215000 could vote, most unrepresented, rich landowners decided who to elect
What were british political parties like by 1763
Whigs and Tories, whigs opposed royal power, tories against radical change
George 1 and 2 favoured whigs
1760 whigs had little meaning, as everyone who mattered was a Whig, more of a political establishment
Tory party had little meaning, power shifted between those two
Led to instability 1760s
What were signs of a weakening relationship between America and Britain by 1763
13 colonies developing rapidly
1763 population growing, began to see themselves as not British
By 1763 colonies ran their own affairs
Colonies drift away from British control
Colonies knew of their economic power, and mercantilism annoyed them
After 1763 treaty, Britain had Canada so no fear from french, colonists were less dependant on Britain
Signs of a strong relationship by 1763 between Britain and France
Britain gave the colonies a lot of advantages
Most Americans were loyal to Britain, 25000 Americans joined against french
Americans still loyal to their own colony and Britain
1763 all colonies had their own self interests
1763 no one predicted split from Britain
What were the British strengths in 1776 towards the war
Britain had a population of 8 million compared to America’s 2.5 million
Most supported Britain
Britain had support of 500000 loyalists
Britain had army of 50000
1776 Britain hired army of soldiers from Germany(hessians)
Royal Navy 1775-6 over 300 shops
Britain had great financial strength
Lord Germain replaces Dartmouth as colonial secretary 1775
Britain had bases near
What were the American problems in 1776
Lacked unity
1775 built army from scratch (never more than 20000)
State militia poor
America had no navy, only 50 vessels
America lacked government, articles of confederation which were adopted only had limited power
American economy disrupted
Unable to levy taxes
What were Americans strength in 1776
Committed to a cause
Militia was large over 100000
America commissioned 2000 boats who attacked Britain
What were the American problems in 1776
Lacked unity
1775 built army from scratch (never more than 20000)
State militia poor
America had no navy, only 50 vessels
America lacked government, articles of confederation which were adopted only had limited power
British strategic problems in 1776
British troops in hostile population
Most troops had to defend ports
No centre of rebellion to capture
Couldn’t blockade as betray loyalists, failed in New England 1775, pressure for a quick victory
Needed some reconciliation so if won won’t have to keep a large army there, couldn’t have a war of unlimited destruction
American strategy 1776
Washington 3 options, fight guerilla war, only fighting tactically, use an offensive strategy
1776 Washington accepted Britain more superior, affected morale as went on defensive
Chose third option
Who were loyalists in 1776
Strong links to Britain
From minorities don’t associate with patriots
More loyalists in south and middle
Africans supported British as promised freedom
1783 19000 Americans in British army
What were the problems of the loyalists
All loyalists for different reasons
Loyalists only knew they were against patriots
Could not organise
Relied on Britain for leadership
Without British force had a lot of abuse
What was the nature of the war
By 1781 200000 had served for America
Continental army ranks on experience
After 1778 Britain involved in world war
Not first war for ideology
After initial enthusiasm people went back to farms
What was the impact of Howe at New York 1776
Washington with 20000 should have left New York, congress made him stay
Battle of Long Island, America lost 2000
Washington evacuates under fog
Howe sought peace
Howe wouldn’t treaty with independent America
What was howes impact on the American retreat
Britain captured fort William took 3000 prisoners
3 week American army retreat
Army down to 3000
Howe offered royal pardons
Britain seized Newport and Rhode Island
What was howes impact on Trenton and Princeton
Instead of pushing Philadelphia, Howe took winter quarters, missed chance
Washington regrouped
1600 Americans captured 1000 prisoners at Trenton, more at Princeton 1777
Washington rebuilt army
What was Washington’s change of mindset 1777
Became defensive
Way to win not lose
Could not compete to British army
British plans in 1777
New York captured, british hope
Burgoyne and Howe
Germain ordered Howe to help Burgoyne
What happened at the capture of Philadelphia
Howe moved on it in July
Moved 15000 army by sea
Only 64 km after six weeks
Howe defeated Washington at brandywine 1777
America lost 1200 Britain lost 600
Howe missed chance to destroy Washington
1777 Howe got Philadelphia
Congress moved to Lancaster
What was Burgoynes campaign
9000 strong army took Ticonderoga
Took three weeks to cover 37 km
No loyalists joined his army
Natives didn’t help, scalping of mccrea
British presence made people join America
Lost 600 troops to militia
St leger led 1600 British troops with natives, natives left so leger has to retreat to Canada
Describe Saratoga
Burgoyne wanted Albany
Gates ready, 7000 men same as British force
Burgoyne failed to win, Clinton tried pushing up from New York, left too late with only 3000 men
Burgoyne tried attacking lost another 400
Burgoyne retreated to Saratoga, he was surrounded
Terms were that all 5895 men went back to Britain, terms rejected, all prisoners of war till 1783
Who was to blame for the British defeat in 1777
Heroes were Arnold and continental army
Gate and militia were exaggerated
British blame, Howe didn’t help Burgoyne, burgoyne underestimated, Germain should have ordered Howe to aid burgoyne
What were the results of Saratoga
Morale booster as rebels beat Britain
Germain offered resignation
Howe ordered Clinton to send him reinforcements
Clinton saw sacrifice of Burgoyne as necessary
Lord north contacted American commission to end war
1778 parliament passed north’s conciliatory proposition, Britain repealed coercive acts and right to tax Americans
Peace commission to end war, Britain denied American independence this ended negotiation
Other international effects
What was the french alliance in 1778
King Louis XVI no love for rebellion , wanted revenge on Britain after seven year war and weaken Britain
French ready to give Britain firearms
French treasury bad
Louis failed to recognise American independence
Congress sent franklin as a representative
Saratoga ended french fears
Franklin could play on Anglo-American reconciliation, after north’s conciliation
1778 alliance and war till America had independence
American strategy 1776
Washington 3 options, fight guerilla war, only fighting tactically, use an offensive strategy
1776 Washington accepted Britain more superior, affected morale as went on defensive
Chose third option
Who were loyalists in 1776
Strong links to Britain
From minorities don’t associate with patriots
More loyalists in south and middle
Africans supported British as promised freedom
1783 19000 Americans in British army
What were the problems of the loyalists
All loyalists for different reasons
Loyalists only knew they were against patriots
Could not organise
Relied on Britain for leadership
Without British force had a lot of abuse
What was the nature of the war
By 1781 200000 had served for America
Continental army ranks on experience
After 1778 Britain involved in world war
Not first war for ideology
After initial enthusiasm people went back to farms
What was the impact of Howe at New York 1776
Washington with 20000 should have left New York, congress made him stay
Battle of Long Island, America lost 2000
Washington evacuates under fog
Howe sought peace
Howe wouldn’t treaty with independent America
What was howes impact on the American retreat
Britain captured fort William took 3000 prisoners
3 week American army retreat
Army down to 3000
Howe offered royal pardons
Britain seized Newport and Rhode Island
What was howes impact on Trenton and Princeton
Instead of pushing Philadelphia, Howe took winter quarters, missed chance
Washington regrouped
1600 Americans captured 1000 prisoners at Trenton, more at Princeton 1777
Washington rebuilt army
What was Washington’s change of mindset 1777
Became defensive
Way to win not lose
Could not compete to British army
British plans in 1777
New York captured, british hope
Burgoyne and Howe
Germain ordered Howe to help Burgoyne
What happened at the capture of Philadelphia
Howe moved on it in July
Moved 15000 army by sea
Only 64 km after six weeks
Howe defeated Washington at brandywine 1777
America lost 1200 Britain lost 600
Howe missed chance to destroy Washington
1777 Howe got Philadelphia
Congress moved to Lancaster
What was Burgoynes campaign
9000 strong army took Ticonderoga
Took three weeks to cover 37 km
No loyalists joined his army
Natives didn’t help, scalping of mccrea
British presence made people join America
Lost 600 troops to militia
St leger led 1600 British troops with natives, natives left so leger has to retreat to Canada
Describe Saratoga
Burgoyne wanted Albany
Gates ready, 7000 men same as British force
Burgoyne failed to win, Clinton tried pushing up from New York, left too late with only 3000 men
Burgoyne tried attacking lost another 400
Burgoyne retreated to Saratoga, he was surrounded
Terms were that all 5895 men went back to Britain, terms rejected, all prisoners of war till 1783
Who was to blame for the British defeat in 1777
Heroes were Arnold and continental army
Gate and militia were exaggerated
British blame, Howe didn’t help Burgoyne, burgoyne underestimated, Germain should have ordered Howe to aid burgoyne
What were the results of Saratoga
Morale booster as rebels beat Britain
Germain offered resignation
Howe ordered Clinton to send him reinforcements
Clinton saw sacrifice of Burgoyne as necessary
Lord north contacted American commission to end war
1778 parliament passed north’s conciliatory proposition, Britain repealed coercive acts and right to tax Americans
Peace commission to end war, Britain denied American independence this ended negotiation
Other international effects
British strategic problems in 1776
British troops in hostile population
Most troops had to defend ports
No centre of rebellion to capture
Couldn’t blockade as betray loyalists, failed in New England 1775, pressure for a quick victory
Needed some reconciliation so if won won’t have to keep a large army there, couldn’t have a war of unlimited destruction
American strategy 1776
Washington 3 options, fight guerilla war, only fighting tactically, use an offensive strategy
1776 Washington accepted Britain more superior, affected morale as went on defensive
Chose third option
Who were loyalists in 1776
Strong links to Britain
From minorities don’t associate with patriots
More loyalists in south and middle
Africans supported British as promised freedom
1783 19000 Americans in British army
What were the problems of the loyalists
All loyalists for different reasons
Loyalists only knew they were against patriots
Could not organise
Relied on Britain for leadership
Without British force had a lot of abuse
What was the nature of the war
By 1781 200000 had served for America
Continental army ranks on experience
After 1778 Britain involved in world war
Not first war for ideology
After initial enthusiasm people went back to farms
What was the impact of Howe at New York 1776
Washington with 20000 should have left New York, congress made him stay
Battle of Long Island, America lost 2000
Washington evacuates under fog
Howe sought peace
Howe wouldn’t treaty with independent America
What was howes impact on the American retreat
Britain captured fort William took 3000 prisoners
3 week American army retreat
Army down to 3000
Howe offered royal pardons
Britain seized Newport and Rhode Island
What was howes impact on Trenton and Princeton
Instead of pushing Philadelphia, Howe took winter quarters, missed chance
Washington regrouped
1600 Americans captured 1000 prisoners at Trenton, more at Princeton 1777
Washington rebuilt army
What was Washington’s change of mindset 1777
Became defensive
Way to win not lose
Could not compete to British army
British plans in 1777
New York captured, british hope
Burgoyne and Howe
Germain ordered Howe to help Burgoyne
British strategic problems in 1776
British troops in hostile population
Most troops had to defend ports
No centre of rebellion to capture
Couldn’t blockade as betray loyalists, failed in New England 1775, pressure for a quick victory
Needed some reconciliation so if won won’t have to keep a large army there, couldn’t have a war of unlimited destruction
American strategy 1776
Washington 3 options, fight guerilla war, only fighting tactically, use an offensive strategy
1776 Washington accepted Britain more superior, affected morale as went on defensive
Chose third option
Who were loyalists in 1776
Strong links to Britain
From minorities don’t associate with patriots
More loyalists in south and middle
Africans supported British as promised freedom
1783 19000 Americans in British army
What were the problems of the loyalists
All loyalists for different reasons
Loyalists only knew they were against patriots
Could not organise
Relied on Britain for leadership
Without British force had a lot of abuse
What was the nature of the war
By 1781 200000 had served for America
Continental army ranks on experience
After 1778 Britain involved in world war
Not first war for ideology
After initial enthusiasm people went back to farms
What was the french alliance in 1778
King Louis XVI no love for rebellion
How did Spain and the Netherlands enter the war
1779 Spain entered as ally to France
1780 Britain declared war on Netherlands as they helped France and Spain
What was the league of armed neutrality
1780 Russia and Sweden and Denmark protect neutral rights, after British blockade
Bolstered USAs international position
What was the result of french and Spanish intervention
1778 America only sideshow, France was main concern
French population twice British
Army of 150000
Britain had to defend places like Minorca
By 1782 Britain had army of 150000
Royal Navy had 100000 sailors and 600 ships
1778 65% British army in America, 1780s only 29%
American allies put their own interests first, France only sent 10000 troops to America
What were Washington’s problems 1777-8
Winter bad, lost 3000 men
Gates army broken up
Washington feared conspiracy, questioned as gates had a much better record, 1777 letter from general conway to gates called Washington a weak leader, Washington survived this
Washington army grew back to 12000, surrounded by military experts
Clinton’s problems 1778-9
Howe replaced Clinton
Germain told Clinton to focus on french in carribean, lost 5000 men for this, left Philadelphia and focused on Ny
Clinton went to NY 1778 with 10000 men, America attack failed, 4000 french troops failed to capture Newport and rhode then left for carribean
Clinton wanted to fight Washington
Britain could still win
American problems in 1779-81
1779 Washington faced lack of troops
Popular support had declined
Winter 1779-80 reduced Washington’s army to 8000, 1/3 were unfit
1780 Arnold escaped to fight for Britain, ideal crumbling
French army of 6000 landed in rhode achieved little
1781 Pennsylvania line mutinied after poor treatment
1781 continental army not a threat for Clinton
What was war in the west
White vs natives
100000 fought for Britain
Tribes saw as a chance for land
Natives not always good, unreliable, divided, savage attacks
What was the Georgia phase
1778 Clinton sent 3000 men under Campbell to Georgia
Made sure troops treated people nicely, british beat patriots
Still precarious, Georgia’s population divided, Lincoln more than Britain
What was the southern phase in the carolinas
1780 Cornwallis 7600 men sieged Charlestown
Lincoln surrendered in may
Big American loss
Carolina’s seemed under British control
Clinton left after feared attack on NY, left Cornwallis in charge of 4000
Clinton made neutrality impossible by saying if not British treated as enemy
Cornwallis invaded North Carolina, as he left south, it rose against him
1780-81 milita destroyed back country
What happened in Yorktown
Cornwallis has control of 8000
Most Virginians against Britain
Not much fighting till 1780
Moved to sea to communicate with Clinton in Ny
1781 Washington persuaded that Cornwallis better target
16000 army confronted Cornwallis
Cornwallis surrendered
What were the results of Yorktown
Shock to Britain
Not decisive as still 30000 troops in America
British stopped offensive
Parliament sceptical
1782 George 3 said end war, north resigned, replaced by marquis of Rockingham
How did peacemaking work in 1782-3
Shelburne became prime-minister
French wanted peace
Shelburne wanted to split america and France so generous to America
America sceptical of french
Treaty of Paris signed 1783, Britain recognised independence, USA promised Britain cans collect pre war debt and asked states to give back confiscated loyalist property, Britain gave back Florida
American triumph
1783 Britain still had trans Appalachian area
Shelburne wanted American British commercial alliance
What was the new government like 1789
Gave Feds control of government
Large fed majority in senate and House of Representatives
Washington chosen by electoral college, John Adams Vice President
New congress 1789 in New York City
Washington had a procession confirming confidence in him, Washington less optimistic
Problems facing the new government in 1789
USA not united
Rhode Island and North Carolina not in union
Nation had an untried constitution
New government were burdened with a lot of debt, almost no revenue
No judiciary department existed
USA had no navy, had an army of 672
USA west borders open to native attack
British and Spanish troops still occupied national territory
Advantages were, worst of post war depression was over and economy expanding, widespread support for new government
What was the judiciary act
Constitution left out how to structure the judiciary
1789 act created hierarchical system of federal courts, at top were supreme courts
Supreme Court should rule on the constitutionality of state court decisions and nullify state laws which violated federal constitution, John jay head
What was the bill of rights
Criticism during ratification
Madison made it top priority, 10 amendments were ratified, known as the bill of rights, guaranteed rights of speech, religion etc
Convinced North Carolina 1789 and Rhode Island 1790 to join union
What did the new government do to raise revenue
Trade duty of 5% on most items, 7.5% on listed items and duties as high as 50% on 30 items
Tonnage act 1789 stated ships should pay a duty of 6 cents per ton, but foreign ships 30 cents per ton
What was the importance of Washington with presidential dignity
Had an open house receptions middle between formality and republican simplicity
In Boston, Washington declined to visit Hancock till Hancock visited him, making a point
First congress decided to call him president of the United States
What was the importance of Washington’s relationship with congress
Constitution intended the senate was the presidents council
Washington came to senate in 1789 to seek advice about draft Native American treaties, some senators refused, Washington eventually left
The senate insisted on independence and it was clear he needed somewhere else
What was Washington’s important On the federal ‘civil service’
Very little, foreign office with only John jay and two clerks, a small treasury board
State, treasury and war departments established 1789
Congress reluctantly agreed president had right to appoint them
What was Washington’s importance on the cabinet
As secretary to treasury, Hamilton, helped to organise bank of New York
Thomas Jefferson minister to France since 1784, Secretary of State
Henry Knox secretary of war
Randolph became attorney general
Routinely called them for advice
Why was Hamilton main driving force for administration
Talented and ambitious
Favourite
Finance was crucially important to new government
He had a special place in the executive as he had to report in writing directly to congress
What were Hamilton’s main ideas
A nationalist, wanted to be united and strong, hopes states would eventually wither away
Saw Washington as a constitutional monarch and himself as prime minister
Believed federal government has to dominate financial policy, determined to restore national credit outlined programme 1790 to 1791
What was Hamilton’s first report on public credit
1790
Funding at face value of the entire domestic and foreign debt amounting to $56 million
Federal assumption of war debts $21 million
Hamilton saw national debt to cement union, follow congress would have a national taxing power, instil respect for federal authority
What was the opposition to Hamilton
No opposition to repayment of foreign debt at face value, proposal to domestic debt was bitterly attacked, mostly by south as most debt came from northern speculators
Maddison suggested a plan which discriminated between original holders and purchasers, Hamilton responded by saying impossible to find out who
Didn’t want to alienate the speculators, so accepted Hamilton
More opposition at state debt assumption scheme, southern states had already paid debts and objected taking on more debt, also feared that federal power will expand
Madison became Hamilton’s main opponent, persuading congress to reject state debt proposal 1790
What was the compromise of hamiltons first report on public credit
Hamilton was able to reverse verdict after bargains between Madison and jefferson
Agreed, make generous allowances to states that have no debt, permanent national capital would be in the south, chosen by Washington
Congress passed Hamilton’s plan 1790
What was Hamilton’s second report on public credit
Hamilton’s debt led to the national debt being over $80 million, 80% of the federal governments expenditure was on debt
Dec 1790 second report included proposal for a tax on distilled spirits to increase revenue, excise tax passed 1791
Was Hamilton’s reports a success
The value of new government bonds rose sharply
Federal government could borrow money
Madison worried Hamilton’s reports threatened the constitution, especially states, 1790 virgins assembly said they found no clause allowing this
What was the report on the national bank
Revival of Robert Morris
Modelled Bank of England
Capital of $10 million 4/5 private investors, act as a depositary for government funds, collection of tax, source of capital for loans, issue paper money, bank stockholders had a vested interest in supporting the government
What was the opposition to the report on the national bank
Madison said the constitution had not given congress the power to charter companies
Congress passed bill regardless
Washington concerned over madisons view, consulted cabinet, Jefferson and Randolph agreed with Madison
Hamilton said it was just exercising granted constitutional powers of collecting tax and regulation of currency
Washington signed bill into law
Was the bank of United States a success
The bank had a charter for 20 years
Opened in 1791, contributed to development, it was loathed in south, led to decline in Hamilton’s popularity
What was Hamilton’s report on manufacturers
Plan for industrialisation through a system of tariffs and subsidies
Congress not ready for so bold economic planning
Report was shelved, a new tariff act 1792 only for revenue rather than protection
What were the results of Hamilton’s financial programme
Similar to delivery Morris’s
Undoubtedly successfully financially, restored public credit, foreign capital flowed into USA, productivity increased and prosperity returned
Hamilton’s measures sharpened divisions
South saw as northern takeover
What was the republican alternative to Hamilton
Founding fathers didnt want parties, they were caused by Hamilton’s programmes
Efforts to centralise power provoked fears of tyranny, his admiration of British monarch led to suspicions he wanted to reintroduce it
Describe Hamilton vs Jefferson
Initially centred around Madison, after 1791 Jefferson saw Hamilton’s principles as adverse to liberty, Jefferson worked behind the scenes, Madison led opposition in congress
Hamilton and Jefferson not far apart ideologically, different views on future, Hamilton saw a diversified economy, balanced by commerce, Jefferson was suspicious of money interests wanted republic of independent farmers
Hamilton pessimistic about people feared anarchy, loved order
Jefferson optimistic about people, feared tyranny and loved liberty
Hamilton wanted stronger national government, Jefferson states
United States gazette vs the national gazette
By 1792 Hamilton Federalist Party, Jefferson and Madison became republican
What happened in the 1792 presidential election
Washington was good
Urged by Hamilton and Jefferson to continue
Federalists had clear majority in senate but split in house republicans
What happened at Jefferson’s resignation
Jefferson’s actions nearly led Washington to dismiss him
1793 Jefferson left cabinet, Washington saw him as disloyal never spoke to him again
What was the impact of the French Revolution
1789 approval by most Americans
After jacobin terror 1793 and king louis execution, opinion changed
Federalists saw as fears of popular government could generate mob rule, republicans sympathised with revolutionaries
War between France and Britain 1793 questioned whether america should help France
By 1778 treaty USA remained ally of France, Hamilton said invalid as that government no longer exists, british imports main source of revenue 75% of trade was with Britain
Jefferson said use 1778 treaty as bargaining tool with Britain
1793 proclamation of neutrality
Who was citizen genet
Washington accepted that USA should recognise new french government
What were problems with Britain of the new government
Americans had not let go of military posts that it agreed to do 1783
Britain disregarded maritime rights of America, on America trading with France, Britain declared intent of a blockade in 1793, resulted in seizure of 250 ships
1794 war with Britain close, boycott against Britain passed house, blocked in senate only by Adams
What was jays treaty
USA tried to negotiate settlement with Britain, uncompromising as warned by Hamilton that America would not join league of armed neutrality
Jay treaty 1794, Britain promised to leave forts 1796, Britain give compensation for ships, Britain granted American commerce to West Indies
In return jay would pay pre revolutionary debts, Britain gained the most favoured nation in American commerce, jay promised french privateers would not be in American ports
Jays treaty led to uproar, jay burnt in effigy, senate ratified treaty
Washington signed it 1795
What were the relations with Spain for the new government
Jays treaty made Spain think America and Britain getting close so
Treaty of San Lorenzo 1795
Granted USA free use of Mississippi and right to deposit goods New Orleans
Accepted American claim to 31st parallel
Promised to restrain natives from attaching
What were the western developments new government
Americans pushed west in 1790s
Two new states
Kentucky 1792 and Tennessee 1796
What was the Native American policy 1789-93
Washington wanted native homelands and eventually become American citizens
Treaty of New York restored land taken in treaties with Georgia
Washington proclamation forbidding private encroachments
Washington’s proclamations didn’t work, Georgia defied it by selling 15 million acres on western border, in north white settlers moved onto native lands
After expedition into Ohio crushed 1791, Washington realised couldn’t hold back white settlers
What was the treaty of Greenville
1794 northwestern Natives lost to 5000 troops
The USA acquired lands of Ohio and Indiana
What was the western land policy
Jay and Pinckney settled matters with Britain and Spain, west surged settlers
Federalists favoured high prices to gain money, and sale of large parcels of land to speculators easier than little amounts
Jefferson and Madison reluctantly accepted this as needed money
Land acts of 1796, doubled price of land to $2 per acre, minimum cost $1280 well beyond most settlers
By 1800 only sold 50000 acres
What was the whiskey insurrection
1791 tax on liquor heavy on frontier farmers, found it hard to get rid of surplus so turned it into whiskey
Pennsylvania the tax led to 1794 armed resistance, mobs terrorised federal agents, prevented courts functioning
1794 6000 men showed they liked revolutionary french, Washington raised 13000 to deal with them, suppressed them
Alienated frontiersmen, Hamilton’s role led to fear of a standing army
Hamilton retired in 1795
Why did Washington stand down in the 1796 election
Preferred federalists
Washington refused to stand again in 1796
Who were the candidates for 1796 election
Republicans chose Jefferson
Hamilton accuses wrongly of mishandling money, John Adams stood for federalists
Hamilton wanted Pinckney for vice
What was the result of 1796 elections
Adams supporters knew Hamilton’s scheme didn’t vote Pinckney
Adams President, Jefferson vice
Senate federalist majority
Party divisions after 1796 elections
Adams came from northern votes, Jefferson south
Party not split over social-economic
