Unit 2: Revolution and Creating a Nation

The American Revolution

The violence of Lexington and Concord set the colonists and the British on a course of rebellion that would only be solved through armed conflict. The American Revolution was the first success revolt against the British Empire in its history and was the counerstone of the creation of the first republic government since the fall of Rome.

Unit 2: Revolution/ Creating a Nation

Creating a Nation

Following the largest war in the short history of European on the North American continent, the victors were at a very difficult crossroad. What type of government would the nation create? Would a tyrant step up to crush those he fought to free? Through the Constitutional Convention, the Constitution of the United States was created and has become a guiding force for several developing nations who look to follow the ideals and structure that the US has created for itself.

The Independence Movement

Following the French and Indian war, the Crown began to tighten down on the colonies, both as a source of income and as a means of limiting conflict with the Native Americans. Growing hostility towards the British soldiers and confining regulation of established colonial government led to the inevitable war between the colonies and the mother nation.

The Federalist Era

The first two leaders of the newly created nation of the United States were both from the Federalists party. The first was the hero of the American Revolution, George Washington stepping into the challenge very hesitantly. Washington lead the nation through the most troubling times since the war had ended and walked away again when he felt it was the best time for the nation.

As Vice-President to Washington for two terms, Signer of the Declaration of Independence, minister to England and France, member of the Continental Congress, John Adams seemed like a very qualified canidate to be the next leader of the nation. Adams had more failures than successes as the president and walked out of the Executive office feeling unappreciated and ready to go home.