Heimler's History: AP U.S. History - Unit 3 Overview

Introduction

• Unit 3 covers the transformation of American colonies into an independent nation (1754-1800).
• Major theme: Development of a distinct American national identity.
• Part of a larger AP U.S. History review packet.

French and Indian War (1754-1763)

• Part of the Seven Years’ War, conflict over Ohio River Valley.
• British colonists vs. French and Indian allies.
• Albany Plan of Union proposed by Benjamin Franklin for centralized colonial government (rejected).
• Outcome: British victory, French ousted from North America, Louisiana territory to Spain.

Post-War Consequences

• Colonists moved westward, intensifying conflicts with American Indians (e.g., Pontiac’s Rebellion).
• Royal Proclamation of 1763: prevented colonists from settling west of Appalachians, causing frustration.
• War expenses led to increased British taxation on colonies.

Taxation Without Representation

• End of salutary neglect: stricter enforcement of Navigation Acts, new Quartering Act, Sugar Act, Stamp Act.
• Colonists protested lack of representation; virtual representation argument by British.
• Sons and Daughters of Liberty formed to oppose taxes.
• Stamp Act Congress petitioned repeal as loyal British subjects.

Increased Colonial Resistance

• Townshend Acts led to organized boycotts; Boston Massacre as symbol of British tyranny.
• Boston Tea Party in response to Tea Act led to Coercive (Intolerable) Acts.
• First Continental Congress (1774) met to resist Parliament’s violations.

Enlightenment Influence

• Natural rights and social contract theories influenced colonial leaders.
• Ideas of republicanism and separation of powers were significant.

Declaration of Independence (1776)

• Enlightenment ideas prominent in the document.
• Thomas Paine’s "Common Sense" pivotal in swaying public opinion toward independence.

American Revolution

• Continental Army led by George Washington, aided by French alliance post-Saratoga.
• British surrender at Yorktown (1781) marked American victory.

Articles of Confederation

• Weak central government; no executive or judiciary; limited taxing power.
• Northwest Ordinance of 1787: plan for statehood and abolition of slavery in new territories.

Constitutional Convention (1787)

• Shays’ Rebellion showed Articles' weaknesses.
• New Constitution with stronger central government, Great Compromise, and Three-Fifths Compromise.
• Federalist Papers supported ratification; Bill of Rights promised.

Early American Politics

• George Washington's presidency set precedents; Alexander Hamilton's financial plan.
• Whiskey Rebellion demonstrated new government strength.
• Washington's Farewell Address warned against political parties and foreign alliances.

Adams Presidency

• XYZ Affair and Alien and Sedition Acts caused controversy.
• Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions argued for state nullification of unconstitutional laws.

Foreign Relations and Slavery

• Indian Trade and Intercourse Act aimed to regulate settler-Indian relations.
• Pinckney Treaty with Spain resolved southern boundary.
• Regional attitudes towards slavery diverged; growth of African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Conclusion

• Distinct American culture emerging; women’s role in republican motherhood emphasized.
• Transition from Articles to stronger federal government marked key development.

• For further review, consider exploring additional resources and materials for a comprehensive understanding of Unit 3.