Unit 5: The New Nation

After the colonies won independence from Great Britain, the Articles of Confederation became the first national government. When many people realized that the new government was weak, delegates from the states went to Philadelphia to discuss a solution. Here delegates designed a federal system of government that divides powers among three branches: the legislative, the executive and the judicial. After strong debate the Constitution was ratified by all 13 states. George Washington became the first President of the United States and helped unite the new nation.

In 1800 Thomas Jefferson was elected the third president of the United States. One of his most important acts as President was the purchase of the Louisiana Territory. Lewis and Clark led an expedition to explore the new territory. The country faced continuing problems with Great Britain and threats from Native Americans in the West. In 1812 the United States declared war against Britain.

In the first half of the nineteenth century industrialization and technology changed life in America. Andrew Jackson was elected President in 1828. Jackson promised to protect the rights of average Americans. As Americans moved westward, tensions grew with Native Americans. Congress created the Indian Territory and thousands of Native Americans were relocated. Then tensions with Mexico led to war in 1846. The United States won the war with Mexico and expanded its territory.