Preserving the Nation

The year is 1877 and at last the Civil War and Reconstruction are over. The southern states are beginning the process of rebuliding but the effects of war continue to be felt through out the south.

Essential Question: Can the use of force (military, econ0mic, and political) preserve a nation?

Possible topics:
Ft. Sumter
Emancipation Proclamation
Conscription
54th Mass. Regiment
Gettysburg Address
Sherman's march
Appamattox
Lincoln's assassination
Radical Republicans
Freedman's Bureau
Amendment 13, 14, and 15
carpetbaggers
scalawags
Johnson's impeachment
Jim Crow Laws
Cycle of Poverty
Redemption

Balancing Nationalism and Sectionalism

The year is 1836. America is developing two very different economic systems in the north and south causing political differences between the regions. At the same time, nationalism is exerting a strong influence in foreign affairs and westward expansion.

Essential Question: "What does it mean to be a nation?"

Topics to consider:
Industrial Revolution
Cotton Gin
American System
Monroe Doctrine
Missouri compromise
Andrew Jackson's presidency
Indian Removal Act
Nullification Theory
Reform for workers and women

Launching a New Nation

The year is 1815. The Patriots have successfully overthrown British rule. However, it is easier to defeat an old system of government than to create an new one. The new republic struggles to establish itself.

Essential Question - "How can a government build a unified nation out of a people with diverse interest and concerns?"

Topics to consider:
Constitutional Convention
Separation of Power
Bill of Rights
Washington as first president
Federalists vs Democrat-Republicans
Problems with Spain and England
Election of 1800
Louisiana Purchase
War of 1812

More About US History

Want to know more about US History? This blog will allow readers to travel back in time to learn more about important people and events throughout America's history. In an effort to greater understand US History, students will post comments, primary documents, and reactions to events from 1787 - present.