Witchcraft in Salem
In 1692, a series of strange events that cannot be fully accounted for today broke out in the Puritan settlement of Salem, Massachusetts. Accusations of witchcraft quickly spread throughout the town and many (especially the women of Salem) feared that they would be next.
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In 1692, a series of strange events that cannot be fully accounted for today broke out in the Puritan settlement of Salem, Massachusetts. Accusations of witchcraft quickly spread throughout the town and many (especially the women of Salem) feared that they would be next.
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The Salem (and Other) Witch Hunts
This article discusses the cause and effect of the Salem witch trials and the prevalence of prejudice-fueled hunts throughout our history in a way that reveals a dark-side of human nature.
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This article discusses the cause and effect of the Salem witch trials and the prevalence of prejudice-fueled hunts throughout our history in a way that reveals a dark-side of human nature.
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Puritan Laws & Character
This article discusses the Puritans a group of English Reformed Protestants who notably founded Massachusetts Bay Colony and other New England settlements in the 1600s and who were known for their religious and legal severity.
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This article discusses the Puritans a group of English Reformed Protestants who notably founded Massachusetts Bay Colony and other New England settlements in the 1600s and who were known for their religious and legal severity.
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The Lost Colony of Roanoke
In 1585 and 1587, England tried its hand at establishing a colonial presence in North America under the leadership of Sir Walter Raleigh. The attempts were failures on both accounts, but they would come to form one of the most puzzling mysteries in early American history: the disappearance of the Roanoke colony.
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In 1585 and 1587, England tried its hand at establishing a colonial presence in North America under the leadership of Sir Walter Raleigh. The attempts were failures on both accounts, but they would come to form one of the most puzzling mysteries in early American history: the disappearance of the Roanoke colony.
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Chief Powhatan's Address to Capt. John Smith
The Powhatan are Native American people from Virginia who share an Algonquian language. In 1607, the Jamestown settlement in the Virginia colony became the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. At the initial arrival of the colonists, people of the Powhatan Confederacy provided the settlers with food, but this relationship quickly deteriorated. In this speech, Chief Wahunsenacawh (1545-1618), also known as Chief Powhatan, addresses a leader of Jamestown.
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The Powhatan are Native American people from Virginia who share an Algonquian language. In 1607, the Jamestown settlement in the Virginia colony became the first permanent English settlement in the Americas. At the initial arrival of the colonists, people of the Powhatan Confederacy provided the settlers with food, but this relationship quickly deteriorated. In this speech, Chief Wahunsenacawh (1545-1618), also known as Chief Powhatan, addresses a leader of Jamestown.
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First Contact with Europeans
This article discusses European explorers' first contact with the American Indians who lived where Florida is today. During this time, Europeans were just beginning to build settlements on land where American Indians already lived.
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This article discusses European explorers' first contact with the American Indians who lived where Florida is today. During this time, Europeans were just beginning to build settlements on land where American Indians already lived.
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The First Thanksgiving
What is often called the "First Thanksgiving" was a feast that included English settlers and Native Americans in 1621. The feast was a celebration of the settlers' successful harvest, which the Native Americans played a large role in by teaching the settlers how to successfully grow new kinds of crops. Thanksgiving has been celebrated as an official federal holiday in the U.S. since 1873.
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What is often called the "First Thanksgiving" was a feast that included English settlers and Native Americans in 1621. The feast was a celebration of the settlers' successful harvest, which the Native Americans played a large role in by teaching the settlers how to successfully grow new kinds of crops. Thanksgiving has been celebrated as an official federal holiday in the U.S. since 1873.
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From Africa to America
The enslavement of people has a history that spans many countries and centuries. This article provides information about the enslavement of Africans in America.
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The enslavement of people has a history that spans many countries and centuries. This article provides information about the enslavement of Africans in America.
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The French & Indian War
In 1754, the final round of conflict in a series of wars between France and Britain broke out in its North American theater. In the U.S., it would be referred to as the French and Indian War. This article recounts the events of the French and Indian War - what the struggle between two European powers meant for the people living in the New World, and the ramifications of this contest for land and power.
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In 1754, the final round of conflict in a series of wars between France and Britain broke out in its North American theater. In the U.S., it would be referred to as the French and Indian War. This article recounts the events of the French and Indian War - what the struggle between two European powers meant for the people living in the New World, and the ramifications of this contest for land and power.
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Francisco Menéndez: An Unsung Hero
This article discusses the life and accomplishments of Francisco Menéndez, who escaped slavery and never stopped fighting for his freedom.
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This article discusses the life and accomplishments of Francisco Menéndez, who escaped slavery and never stopped fighting for his freedom.
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Paul Revere's Midnight Ride
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882) was an American poet. This article contains a poem by Longfellow (written nearly a century after the events occurred) about Paul Revere, whose ride through greater Boston one night in 1775 helped spark the American Revolution. While not entirely historically accurate, the poem popularized the tale most Americans know today. Told from the perspective of an innkeeper, the poem recounts Revere's midnight ride as he warns colonists of approaching British soldiers. Written in 1860 when America was on the verge of Civil War, Longfellow intended for the poem to be a call to action, reminding supporters of the Union that history favors the courageous.
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Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882) was an American poet. This article contains a poem by Longfellow (written nearly a century after the events occurred) about Paul Revere, whose ride through greater Boston one night in 1775 helped spark the American Revolution. While not entirely historically accurate, the poem popularized the tale most Americans know today. Told from the perspective of an innkeeper, the poem recounts Revere's midnight ride as he warns colonists of approaching British soldiers. Written in 1860 when America was on the verge of Civil War, Longfellow intended for the poem to be a call to action, reminding supporters of the Union that history favors the courageous.
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The Road to American Independence
It was a long road to the American Revolution, one filled with obstacles and ending in unexpected victory. This article recounts this journey, starting from the beginning of English colonization in North America and ending with the final battle of the American Revolution.
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It was a long road to the American Revolution, one filled with obstacles and ending in unexpected victory. This article recounts this journey, starting from the beginning of English colonization in North America and ending with the final battle of the American Revolution.
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Benedict Arnold: Two Sides of a Bitter Coin
Benedict Arnold (1741-1801) was an American General during the American Revolution. He originally fought for the colonists' Continental Army but later defected to the British Army. Today, the name "Benedict Arnold" has become synonymous with treason and betrayal.
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Benedict Arnold (1741-1801) was an American General during the American Revolution. He originally fought for the colonists' Continental Army but later defected to the British Army. Today, the name "Benedict Arnold" has become synonymous with treason and betrayal.
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The Signers of the Declaration
Before the beginning of the American Revolution in 1776, the 13 colonies had been dissatisfied with Britain's treatment of them for a significant period of time. This article discusses the events that led up to the Revolution and the eventual signing of the Declaration of Independence.
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Before the beginning of the American Revolution in 1776, the 13 colonies had been dissatisfied with Britain's treatment of them for a significant period of time. This article discusses the events that led up to the Revolution and the eventual signing of the Declaration of Independence.
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A Brit's View of American Independence
This article discusses the ratification of the Declaration of Independence, a historical document written by America's Founding Fathers in 1776 that declared America's freedom from Britain. The article is written from the perspective of a fictional Brit.
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This article discusses the ratification of the Declaration of Independence, a historical document written by America's Founding Fathers in 1776 that declared America's freedom from Britain. The article is written from the perspective of a fictional Brit.
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Leviathan & The Social Contract
Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) was an English political philosopher. His 1651 book, Leviathan, established the theory of the "Social Contract", which establishes the idea that man benefits from a common rule of law.
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Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) was an English political philosopher. His 1651 book, Leviathan, established the theory of the "Social Contract", which establishes the idea that man benefits from a common rule of law.
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Political Society
John Locke (1632-1704) was an English philosopher. His writings influenced American revolutionaries and his ideas are reflected in the United States Declaration of Independence.
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John Locke (1632-1704) was an English philosopher. His writings influenced American revolutionaries and his ideas are reflected in the United States Declaration of Independence.
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Spirit of Laws
Charles-Louis de Secondat, Baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu (1689-1755) was a French lawyer and political philosopher during the Age of Enlightenment. His writing has influenced constitutions around the world with his emphasis on the need for separation of powers in government. In these excerpts from his political work Spirit of Laws, Montesquieu discusses slavery and equality. His country, France, would abolish slavery in all its territory and colonies in 1794.
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Charles-Louis de Secondat, Baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu (1689-1755) was a French lawyer and political philosopher during the Age of Enlightenment. His writing has influenced constitutions around the world with his emphasis on the need for separation of powers in government. In these excerpts from his political work Spirit of Laws, Montesquieu discusses slavery and equality. His country, France, would abolish slavery in all its territory and colonies in 1794.
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The Founding of American Democracy
The American colonies rose up in 1775 against Britain with the goal of becoming an independent state. They sent the King of England their Declaration of Independence a little more than a year after the start of the Revolutionary War. After nearly eight years of war, the British finally ended their offensive military operations in America in 1783, at which point Americans became free to set up their own government. The Constitution replaced the much weaker Articles of Confederation as the guide for American governance.
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The American colonies rose up in 1775 against Britain with the goal of becoming an independent state. They sent the King of England their Declaration of Independence a little more than a year after the start of the Revolutionary War. After nearly eight years of war, the British finally ended their offensive military operations in America in 1783, at which point Americans became free to set up their own government. The Constitution replaced the much weaker Articles of Confederation as the guide for American governance.
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Why Americans Are So Restless
Alexis de Tocqueville (1805-1859) was a French diplomat, political scientist, and historian. Tocqueville is best known for Democracy in America, which was published in two volumes in 1835 and 1840. In the following excerpt from the book, Tocqueville discusses the effectiveness of America's democracy.
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Alexis de Tocqueville (1805-1859) was a French diplomat, political scientist, and historian. Tocqueville is best known for Democracy in America, which was published in two volumes in 1835 and 1840. In the following excerpt from the book, Tocqueville discusses the effectiveness of America's democracy.
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The Declaration of Independence
After a series of laws meant to punish the American colonists (including the taxation of paper products and forcing colonists to host British soldiers in their homes) representatives from the 13 colonies came together to declare independence from Britain. The following is the document they wrote and signed on July 4, 1776. (Please be aware that this article contains some outdated and offensive language that was often considered acceptable at the time the text was published.)
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After a series of laws meant to punish the American colonists (including the taxation of paper products and forcing colonists to host British soldiers in their homes) representatives from the 13 colonies came together to declare independence from Britain. The following is the document they wrote and signed on July 4, 1776. (Please be aware that this article contains some outdated and offensive language that was often considered acceptable at the time the text was published.)
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The Articles of Confederation
The Articles of Confederation were written by the Second Continental Congress as the first document outlining the U.S. Government following the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The Articles were written in 1777, during the Revolution, and were ratified by all 13 states in 1781. While the Articles helped organize the U.S. long enough to win its independence, their weaknesses led to revision, and they were eventually replaced by the Constitution in 1788.
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The Articles of Confederation were written by the Second Continental Congress as the first document outlining the U.S. Government following the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The Articles were written in 1777, during the Revolution, and were ratified by all 13 states in 1781. While the Articles helped organize the U.S. long enough to win its independence, their weaknesses led to revision, and they were eventually replaced by the Constitution in 1788.
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The Bill of Rights
The Bill of Rights is the name given to the first 10 Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. James Madison introduced the original bill that proposed the Amendments in 1789, and the Bill of Rights (as it came to be known) was ratified on December 15, 1791.
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The Bill of Rights is the name given to the first 10 Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. James Madison introduced the original bill that proposed the Amendments in 1789, and the Bill of Rights (as it came to be known) was ratified on December 15, 1791.
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Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death!
On March 23, 1775, Patrick Henry delivered this rousing speech to the Virginia House of Burgesses (including future U.S. Presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson) at St. John's Church. His speech convinced the colony of Virginia to organize a militia to fight against British tyranny.
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On March 23, 1775, Patrick Henry delivered this rousing speech to the Virginia House of Burgesses (including future U.S. Presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson) at St. John's Church. His speech convinced the colony of Virginia to organize a militia to fight against British tyranny.
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To His Excellency, George Washington
Phillis Wheatley (c. 1753-1784) was the first published African-American poet in U.S. history. Born in West Africa, she was sold into slavery as a young girl to the Wheatley family, who taught her to read and write. Her poems brought her international fame. The American Revolution officially began in April 1775, and Wheatley wrote this poem some months later commending the achievements of General George Washington (who did not become the first President until 1789).
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Phillis Wheatley (c. 1753-1784) was the first published African-American poet in U.S. history. Born in West Africa, she was sold into slavery as a young girl to the Wheatley family, who taught her to read and write. Her poems brought her international fame. The American Revolution officially began in April 1775, and Wheatley wrote this poem some months later commending the achievements of General George Washington (who did not become the first President until 1789).
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A Participant's Account of the Boston Tea Party
The Tea Act of 1773 was passed by the British to restrict the American colonies from buying tea from any source other than the British-controlled East India Trade Company. This angered many American colonists who already thought that Britain was taxing the colonies too much, because it meant that colonists could only buy tea that was taxed (and was therefore more expensive). Colonists in Boston decided to protest the Tea Act by storming the East Indian Trade Company's ships in Boston Harbor and throwing the tea into the water to ruin it. George Robert Twelve Hewes, a Boston shoemaker, participated in many of the key events of the Revolutionary crisis. Over half a century later, Hewes recounted his role in the Tea Party.
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The Tea Act of 1773 was passed by the British to restrict the American colonies from buying tea from any source other than the British-controlled East India Trade Company. This angered many American colonists who already thought that Britain was taxing the colonies too much, because it meant that colonists could only buy tea that was taxed (and was therefore more expensive). Colonists in Boston decided to protest the Tea Act by storming the East Indian Trade Company's ships in Boston Harbor and throwing the tea into the water to ruin it. George Robert Twelve Hewes, a Boston shoemaker, participated in many of the key events of the Revolutionary crisis. Over half a century later, Hewes recounted his role in the Tea Party.
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Shays' Rebellion
Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) was the 3rd U.S. President and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. In this 1787 letter, Jefferson writes to a friend about Shays' Rebellion, an armed uprising that took place in Massachusetts because of rebels' increasing dissatisfaction with state and federal government. The rebellion was organized by Revolutionary War veteran Daniel Shays, who led 4,000 people against perceived economic and civil liberties and injustices. Although Shays' Rebellion was defeated, it prompted numerous national leaders to call for a stronger national government to suppress future rebellions.
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Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) was the 3rd U.S. President and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence. In this 1787 letter, Jefferson writes to a friend about Shays' Rebellion, an armed uprising that took place in Massachusetts because of rebels' increasing dissatisfaction with state and federal government. The rebellion was organized by Revolutionary War veteran Daniel Shays, who led 4,000 people against perceived economic and civil liberties and injustices. Although Shays' Rebellion was defeated, it prompted numerous national leaders to call for a stronger national government to suppress future rebellions.
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The Life of Alexander Hamilton
Alexander Hamilton (1757-1804) was an American political figure and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. This article discusses Hamilton's life and accomplishments, specifically his contributions to America’s revolutionary founding and early politics.
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Alexander Hamilton (1757-1804) was an American political figure and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. This article discusses Hamilton's life and accomplishments, specifically his contributions to America’s revolutionary founding and early politics.
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Jefferson & Adams: Frenemies
John Adams (1735-1826) served as the 1st U.S. Vice President and the 2nd U.S. President. Along with Thomas Jefferson, who served as the 2nd U.S. Vice President and the 3rd U.S. President, Adams is revered as one of the nation's Founding Fathers. Adams and Jefferson shared a great friendship and exchanged many letters, including the excerpt below, which was written 12 years after Adams left the Presidential office and four years after Jefferson left it.
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John Adams (1735-1826) served as the 1st U.S. Vice President and the 2nd U.S. President. Along with Thomas Jefferson, who served as the 2nd U.S. Vice President and the 3rd U.S. President, Adams is revered as one of the nation's Founding Fathers. Adams and Jefferson shared a great friendship and exchanged many letters, including the excerpt below, which was written 12 years after Adams left the Presidential office and four years after Jefferson left it.
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Freedom of Religion
Thomas Jefferson drafted this bill in 1779, during the Revolution, and James Madison saw to it that the Virginia legislature passed it in 1786. The statute disestablished the Church of England in Virginia and guaranteed freedom of religion to people of all religious faiths, including Catholics, Jews, and members of all Protestant denominations. The statute was a notable precursor of the Establishment Clause and Free Exercise of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
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Thomas Jefferson drafted this bill in 1779, during the Revolution, and James Madison saw to it that the Virginia legislature passed it in 1786. The statute disestablished the Church of England in Virginia and guaranteed freedom of religion to people of all religious faiths, including Catholics, Jews, and members of all Protestant denominations. The statute was a notable precursor of the Establishment Clause and Free Exercise of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
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Washington's Farewell Address
George Washington (1732-1799) was the 1st U.S. President, widely admired for his leadership, especially as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution. The following is a letter written by Washington (with the assistance of Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton) to the American people, announcing his intent to decline a third term in office. It was never delivered orally, but printed in the papers.
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George Washington (1732-1799) was the 1st U.S. President, widely admired for his leadership, especially as Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution. The following is a letter written by Washington (with the assistance of Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton) to the American people, announcing his intent to decline a third term in office. It was never delivered orally, but printed in the papers.
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Thomas Jefferson & Native Americans
Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) was the 3rd U.S. President and principal author of the Declaration of Independence. In addition to being one of the Founding Fathers, Jefferson's ideas also strongly influenced America's Indian Removal policy enacted by President Andrew Jackson in the Indian Removal Act of 1830. In these excerpts, taken from Jefferson's book Notes on the State of Virginia and private letters, Jefferson reveals both his view of American Indians as a race of people and his official policy for converting Native Americans to farmers or shipping them west across the Mississippi River.
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Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826) was the 3rd U.S. President and principal author of the Declaration of Independence. In addition to being one of the Founding Fathers, Jefferson's ideas also strongly influenced America's Indian Removal policy enacted by President Andrew Jackson in the Indian Removal Act of 1830. In these excerpts, taken from Jefferson's book Notes on the State of Virginia and private letters, Jefferson reveals both his view of American Indians as a race of people and his official policy for converting Native Americans to farmers or shipping them west across the Mississippi River.
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Andrew Jackson's Indian Removal Act
Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) was the 7th U.S. President. In this speech, he discusses the "Indian Removal Act", which forcibly relocated native tribes to what is now Oklahoma.
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Andrew Jackson (1767-1845) was the 7th U.S. President. In this speech, he discusses the "Indian Removal Act", which forcibly relocated native tribes to what is now Oklahoma.
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The Trail of Tears
The Trail of Tears is the name given to the forced relocation of Native American nations following the Indian Removal Act of 1830. The removal included many members of tribes who did not wish to assimilate. Many Native Americans suffered from disease and exposure, and somewhere between 2,000-6,000 Cherokee died on the trail. This article is about the Trail of Tears Diary and includes interviews that reveal the extraordinary resilience of the Native American nations during the trail.
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The Trail of Tears is the name given to the forced relocation of Native American nations following the Indian Removal Act of 1830. The removal included many members of tribes who did not wish to assimilate. Many Native Americans suffered from disease and exposure, and somewhere between 2,000-6,000 Cherokee died on the trail. This article is about the Trail of Tears Diary and includes interviews that reveal the extraordinary resilience of the Native American nations during the trail.
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The Missouri Compromise
This article discusses how the addition of new states to the U.S. raised questions about the future of slavery. In 1818, when Missouri asked to join the Union as a slave state, the U.S. had an equal number of slave and free states, which balanced disputes between them in Congress. The Missouri Compromise would be the first of many disagreements that led to the Civil War, where the South tried to leave the U.S. in order to continue to practice slavery.
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This article discusses how the addition of new states to the U.S. raised questions about the future of slavery. In 1818, when Missouri asked to join the Union as a slave state, the U.S. had an equal number of slave and free states, which balanced disputes between them in Congress. The Missouri Compromise would be the first of many disagreements that led to the Civil War, where the South tried to leave the U.S. in order to continue to practice slavery.
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Bloody Kansas
A series of events dividing pro-slavery southern states and anti-slavery northern states led up to the start of the Civil War in 1860. The Missouri Compromise of 1820 allowed slavery south of and prohibited slavery north of Missouri’s southern border. The Compromise of 1850 settled four years of political confrontation between slave and free states with five new laws, including a stricter Fugitive Slave Law that legally required Northerners to return escaped slaves to their southern owners. And finally, the development of a transcontinental railroad would require the unorganized territory west of Missouri to become organized territories preparing for statehood. All of this occurred a few years before the South seceded, or left the Union, starting the Civil War.
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A series of events dividing pro-slavery southern states and anti-slavery northern states led up to the start of the Civil War in 1860. The Missouri Compromise of 1820 allowed slavery south of and prohibited slavery north of Missouri’s southern border. The Compromise of 1850 settled four years of political confrontation between slave and free states with five new laws, including a stricter Fugitive Slave Law that legally required Northerners to return escaped slaves to their southern owners. And finally, the development of a transcontinental railroad would require the unorganized territory west of Missouri to become organized territories preparing for statehood. All of this occurred a few years before the South seceded, or left the Union, starting the Civil War.
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The Revolutionary Rise of Abolitionists
The American Revolution marked the moment that the 13 colonies declared independence from Britain and formed the United States. However, this was not the only struggle taking place. Within the newly founded nation, disagreement had broken out on the ethics of keeping slaves. Abolitionists' fight to end slavery would eventually reach its height with the Civil War, dividing the nation by its opinions on slavery.
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The American Revolution marked the moment that the 13 colonies declared independence from Britain and formed the United States. However, this was not the only struggle taking place. Within the newly founded nation, disagreement had broken out on the ethics of keeping slaves. Abolitionists' fight to end slavery would eventually reach its height with the Civil War, dividing the nation by its opinions on slavery.
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The Middle Passage
Olaudah Equiano (1745-1797), known by people as Gustavus Vassa, was a freed slave turned prominent African man in London. Equiano became an abolitionist and began to record his life story after being freed. This article is an excerpt from Equiano's autobiography, The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, in which Equiano tells the tale of his brutal voyage across the Atlantic to the Caribbean.
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Olaudah Equiano (1745-1797), known by people as Gustavus Vassa, was a freed slave turned prominent African man in London. Equiano became an abolitionist and began to record his life story after being freed. This article is an excerpt from Equiano's autobiography, The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, in which Equiano tells the tale of his brutal voyage across the Atlantic to the Caribbean.
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On Being Brought From Africa to America
Phillis Wheatley (c. 1753-1784) was the first published African-American woman poet. After being transported from West Africa to America, she was sold into slavery. Later purchased by the Wheatley family, she was taught to read and write, and learned several languages. Wheatley's poems often explore her Christian values, celebrate America, and comment on the current events of the time.
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Phillis Wheatley (c. 1753-1784) was the first published African-American woman poet. After being transported from West Africa to America, she was sold into slavery. Later purchased by the Wheatley family, she was taught to read and write, and learned several languages. Wheatley's poems often explore her Christian values, celebrate America, and comment on the current events of the time.
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Women & the Anti-Slavery Campaign
Many groups of people fought against slavery, but the majority of these organizations were led by men. This article explores the efforts women made in the anti-slavery campaign despite not having a voice in politics.
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Many groups of people fought against slavery, but the majority of these organizations were led by men. This article explores the efforts women made in the anti-slavery campaign despite not having a voice in politics.
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Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) is one of the Founding Fathers of America, known for signing the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, as well as for his foreign service and many inventions. In this essay, he details 13 virtues that he sought to cultivate his character, including them in his autobiography. This project was grounded in Franklin's Puritan roots, as well as in the Enlightenment Era emphases on reason and self-improvement.
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Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) is one of the Founding Fathers of America, known for signing the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, as well as for his foreign service and many inventions. In this essay, he details 13 virtues that he sought to cultivate his character, including them in his autobiography. This project was grounded in Franklin's Puritan roots, as well as in the Enlightenment Era emphases on reason and self-improvement.
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Benjamin Franklin's Anti-Slavery Plea
Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was an American author, politician, diplomat, scientist, and inventor, as well as one of the Founding Fathers. As the president of the Pennsylvania Abolition Society, Franklin was urged by members of the group to bring up the issue of slavery at the Constitutional Convention of 1787, which resulted in the creation of the U.S. Constitution. In 1790, he petitioned the U.S. Congress to ban slavery throughout the nation. Slavery was not formally abolished throughout the U.S. until 1865 with the ratification of the 13th Amendment.
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Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was an American author, politician, diplomat, scientist, and inventor, as well as one of the Founding Fathers. As the president of the Pennsylvania Abolition Society, Franklin was urged by members of the group to bring up the issue of slavery at the Constitutional Convention of 1787, which resulted in the creation of the U.S. Constitution. In 1790, he petitioned the U.S. Congress to ban slavery throughout the nation. Slavery was not formally abolished throughout the U.S. until 1865 with the ratification of the 13th Amendment.
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The Fugitive Slave Act of 1793
The Fugitive Slave Act was enacted by the United States Congress in 1793. The act guaranteed slave owners the right to recover run-away slaves. The House of Representatives passed the act in 1793 by a 48-7 vote with 14 abstaining. When the Thirteenth Amendment was ratified and abolished slavery in 1865, the Fugitive Slave Act lost its power.
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The Fugitive Slave Act was enacted by the United States Congress in 1793. The act guaranteed slave owners the right to recover run-away slaves. The House of Representatives passed the act in 1793 by a 48-7 vote with 14 abstaining. When the Thirteenth Amendment was ratified and abolished slavery in 1865, the Fugitive Slave Act lost its power.
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Margaret Garner: Defying the Fugitive Slave Act
This article tells the story of the fugitive slave Margaret Garner who killed her own children rather than return them to slavery.
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This article tells the story of the fugitive slave Margaret Garner who killed her own children rather than return them to slavery.
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What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?
Frederick Douglass (1818-1895) was an African-American social reformer, orator, and writer. A self-taught man, he escaped from slavery and eventually became a leader in the abolitionist movement. In this speech delivered to a crowd of abolitionists in New York, Douglass reminds his audience that the Fourth of July, while a triumph for many Americans, passes as a day of mourning of unfulfilled promises for others.
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Frederick Douglass (1818-1895) was an African-American social reformer, orator, and writer. A self-taught man, he escaped from slavery and eventually became a leader in the abolitionist movement. In this speech delivered to a crowd of abolitionists in New York, Douglass reminds his audience that the Fourth of July, while a triumph for many Americans, passes as a day of mourning of unfulfilled promises for others.
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The Emancipation Proclamation
Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) was the 16th U.S. President who led the country through the Civil War and abolished slavery. The Emancipation Proclamation was issued during the height of the Civil War and was directed at the 11 states that were still in rebellion. Using his authority as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, Lincoln decreed that all slaves within those states were free, and could join and fight in paid service in the army.
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Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) was the 16th U.S. President who led the country through the Civil War and abolished slavery. The Emancipation Proclamation was issued during the height of the Civil War and was directed at the 11 states that were still in rebellion. Using his authority as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, Lincoln decreed that all slaves within those states were free, and could join and fight in paid service in the army.
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Life As a Slave
Frederick Douglass (1818-1895) was an African-American social reformer, orator, and writer. He escaped from slavery, taught himself to read and write, and eventually became the leader of the abolitionist movement, dedicated to ending the institution of slavery. In this excerpt of his 1845 autobiography The Narrative Life of Frederick Douglass, he describes his experiences as a slave.
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Frederick Douglass (1818-1895) was an African-American social reformer, orator, and writer. He escaped from slavery, taught himself to read and write, and eventually became the leader of the abolitionist movement, dedicated to ending the institution of slavery. In this excerpt of his 1845 autobiography The Narrative Life of Frederick Douglass, he describes his experiences as a slave.
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What Slaves Were Taught About the North
Harriet Ann Jacobs (1813-1897), who wrote under the pseudonym Linda Brendt, was an American slave who eventually escaped and became an abolitionist. "What Slaves are Taught to Think of the North" is a chapter from Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, in which Jacobs provides a true account of her experience as a slave.
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Harriet Ann Jacobs (1813-1897), who wrote under the pseudonym Linda Brendt, was an American slave who eventually escaped and became an abolitionist. "What Slaves are Taught to Think of the North" is a chapter from Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, in which Jacobs provides a true account of her experience as a slave.
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Lincoln's Speech on Slavery
Abraham Lincoln wrote this speech six years before he was elected the 16th U.S. President. Lincoln was well-known for his opposition to slavery, and this piece reinforces his belief that slavery went against the core principles of the nation’s Founding Fathers. In this article, Lincoln contrasts slavery with "free labor". Free labor is a system that lets paid workers have the freedom and ability to earn wages and rise towards property-owning independence.
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Abraham Lincoln wrote this speech six years before he was elected the 16th U.S. President. Lincoln was well-known for his opposition to slavery, and this piece reinforces his belief that slavery went against the core principles of the nation’s Founding Fathers. In this article, Lincoln contrasts slavery with "free labor". Free labor is a system that lets paid workers have the freedom and ability to earn wages and rise towards property-owning independence.
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The Underground Railroad
In the 1850s and 1860s, the U.S. became even more divided on the issue of slavery. States in the South still practiced slavery, while many states in the North prohibited slavery. As a result, many slaves tried to run away to freedom in North. The Underground Railroad was established to provide a secret way for slaves to escape from slavery in the South to freedom in the North.
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In the 1850s and 1860s, the U.S. became even more divided on the issue of slavery. States in the South still practiced slavery, while many states in the North prohibited slavery. As a result, many slaves tried to run away to freedom in North. The Underground Railroad was established to provide a secret way for slaves to escape from slavery in the South to freedom in the North.
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Letter from Frederick Douglass to Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman was an abolitionist who helped slaves escape through the Underground Railroad. She often worked with fellow abolitionist Frederick Douglass, a public speaker and author. When Harriet Tubman reached out to Frederick Douglass requesting he speak to her accomplishments, he responded with this letter.
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Harriet Tubman was an abolitionist who helped slaves escape through the Underground Railroad. She often worked with fellow abolitionist Frederick Douglass, a public speaker and author. When Harriet Tubman reached out to Frederick Douglass requesting he speak to her accomplishments, he responded with this letter.
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Why Sit Here and Die?
Maria W. Stewart (1803-1879) was an African-American domestic servant who became a teacher, journalist, lecturer, abolitionist, and women’s rights activist. While she was the first African American woman to give a public lecture, she was also the first American woman to speak to an audience of both men and women. On September 21, 1832, she delivered her speech "Why Sit Here and Die" at Franklin Hall, Boston to the New England Anti-Slavery Society, an abolitionist society organized in 1831 by William Lloyd Garrison, the editor of The Liberator.
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Maria W. Stewart (1803-1879) was an African-American domestic servant who became a teacher, journalist, lecturer, abolitionist, and women’s rights activist. While she was the first African American woman to give a public lecture, she was also the first American woman to speak to an audience of both men and women. On September 21, 1832, she delivered her speech "Why Sit Here and Die" at Franklin Hall, Boston to the New England Anti-Slavery Society, an abolitionist society organized in 1831 by William Lloyd Garrison, the editor of The Liberator.
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To Those Who Keep Slaves & Approve the Practice
Richard Allen (1760-1831) was a minister, educator, writer, and one of the most distinguished African-American leaders of his day. Allen founded the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) in 1794, with the intent of providing African-Americans, both those free and those enslaved, with a spot to worship without the threat of racial discrimination. Throughout his life, Allen worked hard to advance the state of people of his race in society; this activism encompassed educational and political efforts.
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Richard Allen (1760-1831) was a minister, educator, writer, and one of the most distinguished African-American leaders of his day. Allen founded the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) in 1794, with the intent of providing African-Americans, both those free and those enslaved, with a spot to worship without the threat of racial discrimination. Throughout his life, Allen worked hard to advance the state of people of his race in society; this activism encompassed educational and political efforts.
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Let Them Speak
The Atlantic slave trade was the transport of enslaved Africans by slave traders across the Atlantic, mainly to the Americas. Between 10 and 12 million enslaved Africans were transported between the 16th and 19th Century. This article shares the accounts of slaves, traders, and observers.
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The Atlantic slave trade was the transport of enslaved Africans by slave traders across the Atlantic, mainly to the Americas. Between 10 and 12 million enslaved Africans were transported between the 16th and 19th Century. This article shares the accounts of slaves, traders, and observers.
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Abolishing Slavery
The Civil War (1861-1865) was fought within the U.S. between the Union and the Confederacy. While there were several causes for the conflict between the North and South, the South's desire to maintain slavery was a major point of disagreement. Frederick Douglass, who was born a slave and became an abolitionist, often discussed abolishing slavery with President Abraham Lincoln. This article further discusses the relationship between Douglass and Lincoln, and their efforts to abolish slavery.
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The Civil War (1861-1865) was fought within the U.S. between the Union and the Confederacy. While there were several causes for the conflict between the North and South, the South's desire to maintain slavery was a major point of disagreement. Frederick Douglass, who was born a slave and became an abolitionist, often discussed abolishing slavery with President Abraham Lincoln. This article further discusses the relationship between Douglass and Lincoln, and their efforts to abolish slavery.
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Causes of the Civil War
Cultural divide between the American North and South was never more striking than it was in the 1800s. The majority of the North favored abolishing slavery, while the majority of the South disagreed. This conflict would eventually reach a breaking point and culminate in the Civil War (1861-1865).
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Cultural divide between the American North and South was never more striking than it was in the 1800s. The majority of the North favored abolishing slavery, while the majority of the South disagreed. This conflict would eventually reach a breaking point and culminate in the Civil War (1861-1865).
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The Election of 1860
This article explains how Abraham Lincoln won the Election of 1860 due to a split Southern vote between three other candidates. While there were warning signs that the northern and southern states were growing too divided, this controversial election was one of the last events that led to the outbreak of the Civil War, where northern states fought and won out against rebellious southern states.
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This article explains how Abraham Lincoln won the Election of 1860 due to a split Southern vote between three other candidates. While there were warning signs that the northern and southern states were growing too divided, this controversial election was one of the last events that led to the outbreak of the Civil War, where northern states fought and won out against rebellious southern states.
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The South Secedes
This article details the official start of the Civil War, fought between the northern and southern states from 1861-1865. Just before the war broke out, Republican Abraham Lincoln had been declared the winner of the 1860 Election, in which he ran against three other candidates and only won 40% of the popular vote, primarily in the North.
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This article details the official start of the Civil War, fought between the northern and southern states from 1861-1865. Just before the war broke out, Republican Abraham Lincoln had been declared the winner of the 1860 Election, in which he ran against three other candidates and only won 40% of the popular vote, primarily in the North.
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North vs. South
The Civil War was fought within the U.S. from 1861-1865. The election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860 increased tension between the North and South. Lincoln's political party was interested in stopping the spread of slavery, which was a central institution in the South. By May 1861, 11 Southern states had withdrawn from the U.S. and formed the Confederate States of America; the remaining Northern states were known as the Union. What followed was the bloodiest war in American history.
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The Civil War was fought within the U.S. from 1861-1865. The election of Abraham Lincoln in 1860 increased tension between the North and South. Lincoln's political party was interested in stopping the spread of slavery, which was a central institution in the South. By May 1861, 11 Southern states had withdrawn from the U.S. and formed the Confederate States of America; the remaining Northern states were known as the Union. What followed was the bloodiest war in American history.
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The Battle of Bull Run: The End of Illusions
This article recounts the First Battle of Bull Run, which was fought on July 21, 1861, just north of the city Manassas (or Bull Run) and about 25 miles west-southwest of Washington D.C. The Union anticipated a quick defeat of the Confederates, the capture of their capital, and a clean end to the war. This battle, however, along with several others following it, would soon dissuade them of these notions.
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This article recounts the First Battle of Bull Run, which was fought on July 21, 1861, just north of the city Manassas (or Bull Run) and about 25 miles west-southwest of Washington D.C. The Union anticipated a quick defeat of the Confederates, the capture of their capital, and a clean end to the war. This battle, however, along with several others following it, would soon dissuade them of these notions.
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The Battle of Gettysburg
The Battle of Gettysburg was a decisive battle between the Union and Confederate armies that took place in 1863, in the middle of the Civil War (1861-1865).
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The Battle of Gettysburg was a decisive battle between the Union and Confederate armies that took place in 1863, in the middle of the Civil War (1861-1865).
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The Gettysburg Address
Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President , is perhaps best remembered for his leadership of the country during the Civil War; he oversaw abolishing slavery and strengthening of the federal government. The following speech was given after the Union and Confederate armies had been at war for more than three years and several hundred thousand Americans had already died. Thousands of Union soldiers died at the Battle of Gettysburg alone, which took place just a few months before Lincoln delivered this Gettysburg Address.
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Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President , is perhaps best remembered for his leadership of the country during the Civil War; he oversaw abolishing slavery and strengthening of the federal government. The following speech was given after the Union and Confederate armies had been at war for more than three years and several hundred thousand Americans had already died. Thousands of Union soldiers died at the Battle of Gettysburg alone, which took place just a few months before Lincoln delivered this Gettysburg Address.
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The Siege of Vicksburg: A Tale of Two Generals
After the election of Abraham Lincoln, the Civil War (1861-1865) broke out. The country divided into the Confederacy, which consisted of 11 Southern states, and the remaining Northern states, called the Union. The Siege of Vicksburg was the final battle in the Vicksburg Campaign of the Civil War, a series of battles in which the Union fought to take control of a fortress city held by the Confederates. This article discusses the lives and strategies of the opposing generals at this battle.
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After the election of Abraham Lincoln, the Civil War (1861-1865) broke out. The country divided into the Confederacy, which consisted of 11 Southern states, and the remaining Northern states, called the Union. The Siege of Vicksburg was the final battle in the Vicksburg Campaign of the Civil War, a series of battles in which the Union fought to take control of a fortress city held by the Confederates. This article discusses the lives and strategies of the opposing generals at this battle.
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Black Soldiers in the Civil War
The Civil War (1861-1865) was a war fought within the U.S. After the election of Abraham Lincoln as President, 11 states withdrew from the U.S. to form the Confederate States of America, while the remaining states formed the Union. Since one of the aims of the Civil War was ending slavery, many African-Americans struggled for the right to fight in the war for their freedom.
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The Civil War (1861-1865) was a war fought within the U.S. After the election of Abraham Lincoln as President, 11 states withdrew from the U.S. to form the Confederate States of America, while the remaining states formed the Union. Since one of the aims of the Civil War was ending slavery, many African-Americans struggled for the right to fight in the war for their freedom.
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Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address
On March 4, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), the 16th U.S. President, delivered his second inaugural address. Weeks of wet weather turned Pennsylvania Avenue into a sea of mud; nevertheless, thousands of people came out to see the president standing tall beneath the Capitol dome, a reminder of the strength of his administration throughout the war. In little over a month, and just after the official end of the Civil War, Lincoln would be assassinated. The following speech is considered one of the most eloquent in American history.
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On March 4, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865), the 16th U.S. President, delivered his second inaugural address. Weeks of wet weather turned Pennsylvania Avenue into a sea of mud; nevertheless, thousands of people came out to see the president standing tall beneath the Capitol dome, a reminder of the strength of his administration throughout the war. In little over a month, and just after the official end of the Civil War, Lincoln would be assassinated. The following speech is considered one of the most eloquent in American history.
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A Horseman in the Sky
Ambrose Gwinnett Bierce (1842–1914) was an American journalist, satirist, and short story writer. In this short story set during the Civil War, a young Virginian man joins the Union Army and falls asleep on one of his watches. When he awakes, he faces a difficult duty.
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Ambrose Gwinnett Bierce (1842–1914) was an American journalist, satirist, and short story writer. In this short story set during the Civil War, a young Virginian man joins the Union Army and falls asleep on one of his watches. When he awakes, he faces a difficult duty.
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The Assassination of Lincoln
This excerpt from an 1865 newspaper, Evening Star, contains multiple accounts of the night President Abraham Lincoln and Secretary of State William Seward were attacked. The attack came only five days after Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered his massive army at Appomattox Court House, Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
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This excerpt from an 1865 newspaper, Evening Star, contains multiple accounts of the night President Abraham Lincoln and Secretary of State William Seward were attacked. The attack came only five days after Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered his massive army at Appomattox Court House, Virginia, effectively ending the Civil War.
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The Last Entry in the Journal of John Wilkes Booth
John Wilkes Booth was a famous actor, as well as a Confederate sympathizer during the Civil War. Booth tried on several occasions to kidnap and assassinate President Abraham Lincoln in order to aid the South against the Union. He and his co-conspirators failed to kidnap Lincoln on March 20, 1865 in Richmond Virginia. Booth then hatched another plan upon learning that Lincoln would attend the play Our America's Cousin at Ford's Theatre in Washington D.C. on April 14th (five days after the South surrendered). Booth snuck into President Lincoln’s private theatre box at 10:15 p.m., shot the president once in the head, stabbed his companion, and jumped onto the stage shouting "Sic semper tyrannis" (thus always to tyrants), which the audience first thought was part of the show. Booth then fled D.C., which he recounts in this diary entry. President Lincoln was taken to a house across the street before he died the following morning, April 15th. Booth was tracked on April 26th to a tobacco farm in Virginia where he refused to surrender to Union soldiers. The barn he was hiding in was set on fire and Booth was shot and killed by a soldier before he could escape or surrender.
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John Wilkes Booth was a famous actor, as well as a Confederate sympathizer during the Civil War. Booth tried on several occasions to kidnap and assassinate President Abraham Lincoln in order to aid the South against the Union. He and his co-conspirators failed to kidnap Lincoln on March 20, 1865 in Richmond Virginia. Booth then hatched another plan upon learning that Lincoln would attend the play Our America's Cousin at Ford's Theatre in Washington D.C. on April 14th (five days after the South surrendered). Booth snuck into President Lincoln’s private theatre box at 10:15 p.m., shot the president once in the head, stabbed his companion, and jumped onto the stage shouting "Sic semper tyrannis" (thus always to tyrants), which the audience first thought was part of the show. Booth then fled D.C., which he recounts in this diary entry. President Lincoln was taken to a house across the street before he died the following morning, April 15th. Booth was tracked on April 26th to a tobacco farm in Virginia where he refused to surrender to Union soldiers. The barn he was hiding in was set on fire and Booth was shot and killed by a soldier before he could escape or surrender.
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Reconstruction
This article discusses Reconstruction, or the period of rebuilding following the Civil War. The Civil War lasted from 1861-1865 and was fought between the northern states, known as the Union, and rebellious southern states, known as the Confederacy. The Union won the war and had to decide how to bring the country back together again, leading to the controversial Reconstruction Era.
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This article discusses Reconstruction, or the period of rebuilding following the Civil War. The Civil War lasted from 1861-1865 and was fought between the northern states, known as the Union, and rebellious southern states, known as the Confederacy. The Union won the war and had to decide how to bring the country back together again, leading to the controversial Reconstruction Era.
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A Child of Slavery Who Taught a Generation
This article reports on the life and success of Anna Julia Haywood Cooper (1858-1964), an American author, educator, prominent scholar, and one of the first black women to earn a doctoral degree in the U.S.
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This article reports on the life and success of Anna Julia Haywood Cooper (1858-1964), an American author, educator, prominent scholar, and one of the first black women to earn a doctoral degree in the U.S.
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