[SS] Social Studies 8 Semester A (1 of 2): Extended Campus (SM)

Video Transcript: Course Intro

Welcome to Early American History A! This course will take you on a journey through the origins of the United States of America.

You will begin by exploring how American Indian societies lived in their environments. Next, you will examine reasons for European exploration and settlement in North America. From there, you will explore the development of the British colonies and the causes behind the American Revolution. You will learn how the Patriots were able to defeat Great Britain and achieve independence. You will be able to name the documents that define the democratic nature of our American republic. You will learn why the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are so revolutionary.

The course will then take you through the presidencies of four founding fathers: George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison. During this time, the country faced internal troubles. These included rebellions, conflicts with American Indians, and the birth of political parties. Early in its existence, America had to prove itself again through the War of 1812.

Americans started celebrating the Fourth of July and were feeling patriotic during the Era of Good Feelings. But divisions over slavery and states’ rights added to another trend – sectionalism. You’ll learn how the Missouri Crisis and the Nullification Crisis showed major sectional differences. You’ll also explore how Andrew Jackson redefined the role of the president.

Lastly, you will explore the major economic and social changes of the mid-19th century. The Market Revolution, the Second Great Awakening, and the transcendental movement spurred great changes. These periods saw major social reform movements that transformed America. But women, African Americans, and other groups were still kept from power. Throughout this course, you will create a biography project that will let you make a Historybook profile for a key historical figure. Get ready for an adventure!

 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

What are learning objectives? They are the skills, knowledge, and attitudes you will gain from your schoolwork. Upon completing this lesson, you will be able to

  • Analyze the different American Indian cultures by studying how they interacted with their environments.
  • Analyze the causes and effects of European colonization by examining economic and religious reasons for settlement.
  • Evaluate the causes and effects of the American Revolution by analyzing the aspects of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
  • Examine the causes and effects of the War of 1812 by analyzing relations with Great Britain.
  • Analyze the relationship between the United States and American Indian tribes by studying key wars, treaties, and the Trail of Tears.
  • Explore early American art and literature by studying major artists and writers.
  • Analyze the role of cotton and slavery to the American economy by identifying their economic and political importance.
  • Examine the growth of sectionalism by analyzing the compromises made by Henry Clay.
  • Evaluate the effects of the Market Revolution by analyzing the increase in immigration, role of women, and social reforms.
  • Examine the importance of individual reformers by studying their contributions and leadership.

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