Conflict & American Independence (1754-1800)

Chloe Davis
9 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers Period 3 of AP US History (1754-1800), focusing on the transition from colonies to nation. Key topics include Enlightenment Ideals, the Revolutionary War, the Articles of Confederation, the Constitution, Hamilton's Financial Plan, and early US foreign policy. It also covers key figures, treaties, and provides practice questions for the AP exam.
#AP US History: Period 3 (1754-1800) - The Ultimate Study Guide 🚀
Hey APUSH student! Let's get you prepped and confident for your exam. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource, especially for that last-minute review. We're going to break down Period 3 into easy-to-digest sections, highlight key concepts, and give you the strategies you need to succeed. Let's do this! 💪
#🎯 Overview: From Colonies to Nation
This period is all about transformation! We're watching the American colonies evolve from loyal subjects of the British crown to a brand-new independent nation. It's a wild ride filled with enlightenment ideas, revolution, and the growing pains of a republic. 🗽
Key themes include:
- Enlightenment Ideals: Thinkers like Locke and Paine inspire ideas of liberty and self-governance.
- End of Salutary Neglect: Britain tightens its grip, leading to colonial resistance.
- Revolutionary War: The colonies fight for and win their independence.
- Birth of a Republic: The US grapples with creating a new government and identity.
- Political Divisions: The rise of political parties and debates over federal power.
This period is super high-value! Expect to see a lot of questions on these topics, so make sure you know them inside and out.
#⚔️ The Road to Revolution
#💥 Seven Years' War (French and Indian War) (1754-1763)
- The Spark: Competition over the Ohio Valley and resources (like beaver fur) between the British and French. 💣
- Albany Plan: Benjamin Franklin's attempt to unite the colonies for defense (but they weren't ready to give up autonomy). 💡
- British Victory: The British win, but the war is expensive! 💲
- Treaty of Paris (1763): France loses its North American territories. The British think the colonies didn't contribute enough and should pay up.
The French and Indian War was a major turning point. It shifted the balance of power in North America and set the stage for increased tensions between Britain and its colonies.
#Image from Wikipedia
#😠 Taxes and Protests
- End of Salutary Neglect: Britain starts enforcing mercantilist policies and taxes to pay for the war. 🌎
- Proclamation of 1763: Colonists can't settle west of the Appalachian Mountains (angering many). 😠
- Stamp Act (1765): A direct tax on all printed materials. This is a big deal because it affects everyone, not just the wealthy. 📜
- No Taxation Without Representation: Patrick Henry's rallying cry. 🗣️
- Sons and Daughters of Liberty: Protest groups form. 👦👧
- Boycotts: Colonies unite and hurt British trade. 🤝
- Boston Tea Party: Protest against th...

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