1.2
American Beginnings (Pre-Colonial to 1800)
September 1, 2025
Shivohm Karogal
4
Min Read
AI Summary
These revision notes highlight key Indigenous societies, European exploration impacts, colonial regional differences, and early American governance. For example, the Aztecs thrived in Mexico with advanced agriculture before Spanish conquest and devastating smallpox outbreaks. The Incas in the Andes were known for engineering feats like Machu Picchu but fell to Spanish conquest for their gold. Colonial America varied regionally, from Puritan New England’s trade economy to the Southern plantation system reliant on enslaved labor. Founding documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution shaped the new nation, while early presidents such as Washington and Jefferson established political precedents and policies that influenced the young republic’s direction.
Indigenous Societies & European Exploration
The Aztecs
Located in modern-day Mexico; arrived in the Valley of Mexico around 1200 A.D.
Developed agriculture (e.g., chinampas); introduced foods such as chocolate, maize, and tomatoes.
Invaded by Hernán Cortés in 1519.
Smallpox killed 40–60% of the population.
Tenochtitlán fell on May 26, 1521, resulting in the death of around 100,000 Aztecs.
The Incas
Located in the Andes (South America).
Known for advanced irrigation and Machu Picchu.
Conquered by Francisco Pizarro in 1532; Spanish exploited gold and silver resources.
The Mayans
Comprised of city-states ruled by individual kings.
Known for their calendar system, mathematical advancements, and polytheistic religion.
Eventually fell to Spanish conquest.
Colonial America: Regional Differences
Region | Characteristics |
New England Colonies | Economy based on nautical trade and mills; religion was predominantly Puritan; rocky terrain. |
Middle Colonies | Fertile land; temperate climate; known for agriculture (e.g., wheat, oats, corn). |
Southern Colonies | Warm climate; plantation economy; dependent on enslaved labor. |
American Revolution & Founding Documents
Declaration of Independence: Declared separation from British rule (1776).
U.S. Constitution: Established the federal government and citizens’ rights.
Bill of Rights: First ten amendments protecting individual freedoms.
Early Republic: Presidential Leadership
George Washington
Set the two-term limit precedent.
Established a functioning government and national bank.
Promoted neutrality in foreign affairs.
John Adams
Managed foreign tensions with France.
Passed the Alien and Sedition Acts (1798), targeting immigrants and limiting free speech.
Thomas Jefferson
Advocated for personal liberty and minimal federal intervention.
Supported free trade.
James Madison
Contributed to the Bill of Rights.
Led the nation through the War of 1812 against Britain.