1.1 Before the Civil War

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Introductory Reference Document for US History Students

Course Overview

This article serves as a foundational guide for students in a first year US History survey course. It covers the period from post-Civil War into the 21st century, with a brief revisit to events preceding the Civil War for contextual understanding.

Pre-Civil War Context

Diverse Socio-Cultural Entities

The United States has always been characterized by its socio-cultural diversity.

Economic Divisions

Since the colonial period, economic divisions have been evident, such as the plantation economy in the South and the mercantile society in New England.

State vs. National Identity

There was a stronger identification with individual states than the nation initially, a concept that shifted post-Civil War.

Foundational Aspects of the United States

Federal System

The Constitutional Convention established a federal system, balancing powers between state and national governments.

Political Parties

Political parties emerged from differing visions of the United States, exemplified by figures like Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson.

Slavery

Slavery was a significant factor, especially in the South's economy, and contentious in the nation's founding documents.

Foreign Policy

The nation's foreign policy was influenced by doctrines like the Monroe Doctrine and Manifest Destiny, especially pre-Civil War.

Post-Civil War Developments

Industrialization

The North's move towards industrialization contrasted with the South's agricultural focus.

Federal Supremacy

The Civil War largely resolved the debate of state versus federal power in favor of federal authority.

Westward Expansion

The late 19th century saw the settlement of the West and the displacement of Native Americans.

Overseas Territories

Post-1890, the U.S. established overseas territories to support its industrial and commercial interests.

Key Themes in US History: Civil War Era and Beyond

Introduction

This section focuses on four pivotal themes: Mission and Manifest Destiny, Industrialization, Imperialism, and Race.

Mission and Manifest Destiny

  • Historical Roots: Influenced by the classical Christian church's ethos and European medieval attitudes.
  • American Revolution: Signified a cultural shift towards democracy, secularism, and capitalism.
  • Manifest Destiny: Evolved from a destiny under U.S.-style governance to justifying territorial expansion.

Industrialization

  • Economic Transition: The shift from an agrarian to a manufacturing economy began pre-Civil War.
  • Post-War Industrial Power: Post-Civil War, the U.S. emerged as a leading industrial nation.

Imperialism

  • Economic Imperialism: The U.S. exercised control over other nations' economies without direct political rule.
  • Industrial and Mission Driven: Supported by industrialization and the mission to spread civilization.

Race

  • Race and Privilege: Historically, race in the U.S. equated whiteness with privilege.
  • Racism as a National Issue: Extends beyond regional boundaries, intertwined with the issue of slavery.

Conclusion

The course aims to explore these themes to understand the American experience from the Civil War toward the present.

Note for Students

This document is a starting point for your studies. It outlines broad themes and historical contexts but does not cover all aspects in detail. For deeper exploration, refer to course materials, lectures, and recommended readings. Questions or further clarifications should be directed via email.

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