Mr. Raasch's Social Studies
Unit 3: A Growing Nation
Jeffersonian Democracy
Thomas Jefferson's victory in 1800 helped usher in a new era in American politics. He vowed to reduce the powers of the central government as a candidate but became one of the strongest leaders the nation has ever known. With the Louisiana Purchase he more than doubled the size of the United States and paved the way for future expansion of the American people. While his presidency was not without controversy, his administration is looked at as a success by the majority of historians and Americans.
Madison, Monroe and the Era of Good Feelings
The War of 1812
James Madison was the main author of the Constitution of the United States and highly respected by his fellow "Founding Fathers". Many of the Founding Fathers considered Madison the best suited for the office of President because of his demenor and intelligence. However, his presidency was unfortunately plagued by another war with Britian, the War of 1812. This war went horribly for the United States, which included the burning of the original presidential manison and defeats in every aspect of the war.
James Monroe, the Era of Good Feelings
James Monroe became the 5th president during a time period of unity and national pride, followed by a time period known as the Era of Good Feelings. These feelings were so powerful for Monroe and his time in the White House that he ran unopposed for his 2nd term as president. Border disputes and war with the Native Americans set up the US for more conflict in the future, having a great impact of the nation within the next 40 years.
Age of Jackson
Andrew Jackson was an stuanch patriot, a war hero during the War of 1812, indian fighter, champion of the poor people of the frontier land, a hated monster of the Cherokee and Seminole tribes all rolled into one. Jacson fundamentally changed the American political system during a time of extended voting rights for the people of the United States and is one of the most controversal figures of American history.
The War of 1812
The Duality of Jefferson
America: Story of US, Western Expansion
Manifest Destiny
The belief that America should strench form sea to sea gained serious momentum following the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition. To fufill this destiny, the United States would fight 2 different wars; with Mexico over Texas and the southwest of the current United States and with the Native tribes following the Civil War. The promise of land, gold and freedom of religion pushed many Americans to leave all that they know in the world to try for a life on the west coast. Through drought, floods, massive snows, dangerous animals and possible stravation, American settlers managed to achieve their goals and establish the states of Oregon, Washington, Idaho and California for the United States.
Review
Watch all of the videos on Jackson from hippocampus.org or the video above, for a review on the Age of Jackson.
Homework Essay
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Do you believe Andrew Jackson had a positive or negative impact of the United States?
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Explain your answer with historical knowledge, notes and 2 outside class sources.
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The outside sources NEED to be cited and you will be required to have a work cited page.
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The paper should be at least 2 pages in length and is due on Wednesday 10/23/13
Good websites for the Age of Jackson Essay
The Mexican America War
Unit 1-3 Exam
Your midterm exam will contain topics covered during units 1-3; America before Columbus to the end of the Manifest Destiny period. I would strongly recomend studing the review that will be handed out on 10/28 and reviewing your notes before the exam. The exam will be broken up over 2 days, the 1st day will be a multiple choice and short answer/ term test. The 2nd day will be a DBQ essay on any of the topics covered in units 1-3 and you will have the entire class period to complete that essay. Good Luck!!!