Foundations of American Colonialism and Independence

📋 Course Outline

1. Founding and challenges of the first English colonies in North America
2. Religious motives and symbolism of the Plymouth colony and Puritanism
3. Origins and significance of the Mayflower Compact and Thanksgiving
4. American exceptionalism and early colonial self-government
5. Economic and political causes of colonial unrest leading to the American Revolution
6. Colonial protests against British taxation and the escalation to armed conflict
7. Formation of colonial unity and influence of Thomas Paine’s Common Sense
8. Declaration of Independence: authorship, justification, and political philosophy
9. Recognition of American independence and territorial boundaries after the Revolution
10. Territorial expansion of the United States through purchase, negotiation, and war
11. Impact of expansion on Native American tribes and the Trail of Tears
12. Enduring legacy and challenges of the US Constitution and political system

📖 1. Founding and challenges of the first English colonies in North America

🔑 Key Concepts & Definitions