Unit 4: AP US History Review 1800-1848

May 9, 2024

AP US History Unit 4 Review

Introduction

  • The review covers Unit 4 of the AP US History curriculum, spanning 1800-1848.
  • Main themes include the expanding role of the US in world affairs, transformation of society and economy in the early Republic, and Americans adapting to democratic impulses.

Expanding Role in World Affairs

  • Jeffersonian Opposition to Tribute: Thomas Jefferson opposed the tribute to Barbary pirates, leading to conflicts and ultimately a reduced payment to avoid war.
  • American Foreign Relations and Federal Power: Debates continued between Democratic-Republicans and Federalists over foreign relations and the extent of federal power.
  • Louisiana Purchase: Jefferson, a strict constructionist, expanded federal power by purchasing Louisiana from France for $15 million, which contradicted his principles but was justified for the expansion westward.
  • Exploration: Lewis and Clark's expedition, funded by Congress, explored the new territory, enhancing geographic and scientific knowledge.

Transformation of Society and Economy

  • Supreme Court Decisions: Cases like Marbury vs. Madison and McCulloch vs. Maryland increased federal power.
  • War of 1812: Causes included foreign interference and impressment. Post-war, there was intense nationalism and the demise of the Federalist Party.
  • Henry Clay's American System: Proposed internal improvements, protective tariffs, and a second Bank of the United States to unify the American economy.
  • Missouri Compromise: Resolved the balance between free and slave states by admitting Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a free state, setting a precedent for future admissions.

Democratic Impulses and Political Changes

  • Election of 1824 and the "Corrupt Bargain": Split in Democratic-Republican Party leading to the formation of the Democratic Party and National Republicans. Andrew Jackson's election highlighted by the populist campaign.
  • Andrew Jackson's Presidency: Focused on opposition to the National Bank, Indian removal policies, and conflicts over tariffs and states' rights.

Society and Economy

  • Market Revolution: Linked northern industries with southern farms, propelled by technological advances and infrastructure improvements.
  • Social Changes: Urbanization led to diverse populations and class distinctions. Women's roles were confined to domestic spheres, and the cult of domesticity emerged.

Culture and Reform

  • American Identity: Creation of a distinct American culture through literature, philosophy, and religion.
  • Transcendentalism: Emphasized nature and human perfection, influencing arts and societal reforms.

Abolition and Women's Rights

  • Abolition Movement: Gained momentum with the publication of "The Liberator" and formation of the American Anti-Slavery Society.
  • Women's Rights: Seneca Falls Convention marked the start of the women's suffrage movement.

Conclusion

  • Unit 4 encapsulates a period of expansion, political changes, and the beginnings of societal reforms that laid the groundwork for future developments in American history.
  • For additional review materials, the presenter refers to the Ultimate Review Packet for AP US History.