Early United States

Definition

The Early United States refers to the formative years of the nation from its founding in 1776 through the early 19th century, a period characterized by the establishment of a democratic government, westward expansion, and the shaping of national identity. This era saw significant social, political, and economic developments that laid the groundwork for the United States as a sovereign nation, including debates over federalism and individual rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Early United States was marked by the struggle for independence from British rule, culminating in the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
2. The Articles of Confederation were the first attempt at governance but proved ineffective, leading to the Constitutional Convention in 1787.
3. The Bill of Rights was ratified in 1791 as the first ten amendments to the Constitution, ensuring individual liberties and addressing anti-Federalist concerns.
4. Westward expansion during this time was fueled by ideas such as Manifest Destiny, which justified territorial growth and often led to conflicts with Native American populations.
5. Political parties began to emerge during this period, notably with the formation of the Federalists and Democratic-Republicans, shaping future political dynamics.

Review Questions

• How did federalism influence the development of government structures in the Early United States?
  • Federalism played a crucial role in shaping government structures in the Early United States by creating a balance between national and state powers. The framers of the Constitution designed a system that allowed both levels of government to coexist and function, which helped address issues of governance that arose under the Articles of Confederation. This system was essential for maintaining order while allowing for regional autonomy and representation.
• Evaluate how westward expansion affected relations with Native American tribes during the Early United States period.
  • Westward expansion significantly strained relations with Native American tribes as settlers encroached upon their lands. The ideology of Manifest Destiny fostered a belief that it was America's right to expand westward, often disregarding indigenous rights and treaties. This led to numerous conflicts, forced relocations, and broken treaties, resulting in devastating impacts on Native American communities and cultures.
• Assess the impact of political party formation on American society during the Early United States period and its implications for future governance.
  • The formation of political parties during the Early United States period profoundly impacted American society by introducing organized political competition and debate. The emergence of parties like the Federalists and Democratic-Republicans brought differing views on governance, economic policy, and individual rights into public discourse. This division not only shaped policy decisions but also set a precedent for political polarization that would continue to evolve throughout American history.

Related terms

Federalism:

A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, which in the context of the Early United States included the balance of power between the national and state governments.

Manifest Destiny:

The 19th-century doctrine that it was the divine right and destiny of the United States to expand its territory across North America.

Constitutional Convention:

A gathering held in 1787 to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, leading to the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, which established the framework for the federal government.