United States history

United States history encompasses the history of the United States, a country in North America that was formed from thirteen British colonies in 1776. The history of the United States is marked by waves of immigration, industrialization, and political and social change that have shaped the nation's path to becoming a global superpower.

Pre-Colonial and Colonial Period

Before the arrival of European explorers, the land that is now the United States was inhabited by indigenous peoples. These groups had diverse cultures and lived in various structures of societies ranging from nomadic tribes to complex hierarchical civilizations like the Mississippian culture.

The first successful English settlement was established in 1607 at Jamestown, Virginia. This period saw the establishment of other colonies, each with its own distinct economic, social, and political structures. The Thirteen Colonies were ruled by the British Crown and faced various challenges including resistance from Native American tribes, and internal conflicts.

The American Revolution

The roots of the American Revolution can be traced to resistance against British imperial policies, particularly taxation without representation. Tensions escalated into warfare with the battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775. The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, declaring the colonies independent from Britain. The war ended in 1783 with the signing of the Treaty of Paris, recognizing the sovereignty of the United States.

Formation of a New Nation

The post-revolutionary period was marked by efforts to establish a stable federal government. Initially governed by the Articles of Confederation, the need for a stronger federal government led to the drafting of the United States Constitution in 1787, which was ratified in 1788. George Washington became the first President of the United States in 1789, setting up the first federal government.

19th Century

The 19th century was a period of rapid expansion, driven by the doctrine of Manifest Destiny, which posited that the United States was destined to expand across North America. This era saw the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 and the acquisition of territories in the west following the Mexican-American War.

The issue of slavery increasingly polarized the country, culminating in the American Civil War (1861-1865). The war ended with the defeat of the Confederate States and led to the abolition of slavery with the Thirteenth Amendment.

20th Century

The United States emerged as a world power in the 20th century. The country played significant roles in both World War I and World War II, with post-war periods that saw significant economic growth and the establishment of the United States as a leading global superpower. The century also witnessed the struggle for civil rights for African Americans and other minority groups, epitomized by the Civil Rights Movement.

21st Century

The early part of the 21st century has been shaped by the September 11 attacks in 2001, which led to the War on Terror, including wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Domestically, the United States has faced challenges including economic recessions and political polarization.

See also

• History of the Americas
• Presidents of the United States
• Military history of the United States
• Cultural history of the United States