APUSH Period 4 Study Guide (1800-1848)

Overview

• Periodization: Begins with Thomas Jefferson's presidency and ends with growing abolitionism, marking a shift from Federalist to Democratic-Republican leadership.
• Key Themes: Politics, economy, social changes, sectionalism, and the role of prominent figures.

Politics: Presidents and Their Policies

Thomas Jefferson (1801-1808)

• Louisiana Purchase: Acquired vast lands without Congressional approval; prompted westward expansion and Native American conflicts.
• Embargo Act of 1807: Stopped trade due to British and French harassment, influencing economic policies.

James Madison (1809-1816)

• Non-Intercourse Act & Macon's Bill No. 2: Attempted to open trade while excluding Britain and France.
• War of 1812: No clear victory; Treaty of Ghent; increased American nationalism.
• Hartford Convention: Discredited Federalists planning secession.

James Monroe (1817-1824)

• Era of Good Feelings: Political peace, no opposing party.
• Monroe Doctrine: Opposed new colonies in the Americas, asserting U.S. influence.
• Missouri Compromise: Balanced free and slave states, delaying Civil War.

John Quincy Adams (1825-1828)

• Corrupt Bargain: Resulted in a weakened presidency due to shady election practices.

Andrew Jackson (1829-1836)

• Common Man's President: Advocated smaller government, expanded voting rights.
• Indian Removal Act: Enforced relocation of Native Americans.
• Nullification Debate & Tariff of Abominations: Addressed states' rights versus federal power.
• Destruction of the Second National Bank: Led to Panic of 1837.

Economy

• Market Revolution: Growth in manufacturing and self-sufficient economy.
• Transportation and Technology: Development of roads, railroads, factories, and the cotton gin.
• Sectionalism: Regional economic differences (North: industrial, South: agricultural, West: farming).

Social Changes

• Second Great Awakening: Religious revival promoting personal salvation, influencing reform movements.
• Abolitionist Movement: Gained momentum in the North, influenced by moral sentiments.
• Nativism: Anti-immigrant sentiments due to high immigration rates.
• Women's Rights: Women became more active in political reform movements.

Other Groups

• Native Americans: Suffered land loss and forced relocations (Trail of Tears).
• African Americans: Increased slavery and chattel slavery; cultural adaptation through kinship.
• Women: Gaining societal influence, though primarily home-focused.

Summary

• Understanding political, economic, and social changes is key to comprehending the growing sectionalism and its impact on subsequent periods.
• This guide links major events and themes to help form connections and prepare for further study.