1776 - 1861

1. It excluded those people who were perceived as being capable of self-government, such as Native American people and those of non-European origin. -Manifest Destiny

2. The inevitable clashes between Mexican troops and U.S. forces provided the rationale for a Congressional declaration of war on May 13, 1846. -The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

3. Jackson became a national hero when in 1814 he fought the Battle of Horseshoe bend against a thousand Creeks and killed eight hundred of them, with few casualties on his side. -A People History

3.1. This war between the United States and Mexico [made a profound difference in the United States' future shape - in our wealth with the discovery of gold in California and in our image of ourselves as an expansionist.] -Many Truths Constitute the Past

3.2. The violence and the violations that people experienced were not only in terms of taking away their lands or a taking away their livelihood but, ultimately, was also an effort to take away their language. -A War of Violence and Violations

4. Jackson's attitude toward Native Americans was paternalistic and patronizing - he described them as children in need of guidance. -Indian Removal

5. The plan for their removal and reestablishment is founded upon the knowledge we have gained of their character and habits, and has been dictated by a spirit of enlarged liberty. -Jackson

6. Despite the hardships, slaves managed to develop a strong cultural identity. -African American

7. Besides those of colour, figure, and hair, there are other physical distinctions proving a difference of race. -Jefferson on Virginia

8. ...and the executive government of the United States... will recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons and will do no act of acts to repress such persons, or any of them, in any efforts they may make for their actual freedom. -Emancipation Proclamation