American Independence

The Treaty of Paris was signed in 1783, formally recognizing American independence from British "slavery".  

A

1783

B

1783

On the Treaty of Paris you'll find this American diplomat's name. He was an advocate for the constitution, and was said to be good with the dames. 

Benjamin Franklin

Currency Crisis

B

1785

Following  the revolution, states were in debt. Taxes were raised but people had loans not met. The Court of Common Pleas was a place of riot and upset.

D

1786

Daniel Shays

This former Continental captain led an armed revolt (look to page B to see why). Shays Rebellion had an impactful result; Dan was a cool guy! 

E

1787

Expansion 

The ordinance is passed by Congress and expands the US west with 5 new states. It allows for some progress, prohibiting slavery north of the Ohio River, which caused debate. 

F

1787

Federalist Papers

They were published in The Independent Journal by supporters of the constitution. Hamilton, Madison and Jay believed strong national government was the solution. 

G

1789

George Washington

The electoral college unanimously elects Washington and he is inaugurated as the first President. The former commander in chief of the continental army proves to be a real gent. 

Hamilton

H

1789

President Washington appoints Alexander Hamilton as the secretary of the US Treasury- he's the first! Hamilton supported the constitution and assisted America through its worst. 

I

1789

Inalienable

The Bill of Rights is added to the Constitution. It states the natural rights of people, a notable contribution. 

J

1789

John Jay

John Jay is named the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Jay also served as Secretary of State, and the constitution had his full support. 

King Louis XVI

The French Revolution begins in 1789. The United States is conflicted on staying neutral, but most agree King Louis was a swine. 

K

1789

Late to the party

L

1790

"Rogue" Island ratifies the constitution at last. Legislature had rejected eleven previous attempts to seal the deal- not very fast.

M

1790

The "Father of the Constitution" attends the Dinner Party Bargain in June of this year. He discusses establishing a permanent federal capital, but has some fears: Virginia's role in repaying the national debt is unclear.

Madison, James

N

1790

Naturalization Act

The act grants citizenship to those who have a two year residency in the states, but only for "any alien, being a free white person"... 

nothing much to celebrate. Women, slaves, and immigrants will have to wait.  

O

1791

Opposition in Ohio

The tribes of the Old Northwest Territory fight against westward expansion with victory. Little Turtle defeats American troops at the Battle of Wabash in Ohio, one of the worst defeats in American history.

Philadelphia

P

1791

Philly remains the temporary capital of the United States. The city was the site of the continental congress, where the founding fathers weren't always mates. 

Q

1791

Quakers

Quakers believed in peace and were real shakers in the anti-slavery movement. A large group petitions Congress for the end of slavery, but the court adjourns in 1791 with no improvement.