A Growing America, 1789-1861
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Contents
- George Washington, 1789-1797
- John Adams, 1797-1801
- Thomas Jefferson, 1801-1809
- James Madison, 1809-1817
- James Monroe, 1817-1825
- John Quincy Adams, 1825-1829
- Andrew Jackson, 1829-1837
- Martin Van Buren, 1837-1841
- William Harrison, 1841
- John Tyler, 1841-1845
- James Polk, 1845-1849
- Zachary Taylor, 1849-1850
- Millard Fillmore, 1850-1853
- Franklin Pierce, 1853-1857
- James Buchanan, 1857-1861
George Washington, 1789-1797VICE PRESIDENT: John Adams
FIRST LADY: Martha Dandridge Custis Washington SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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GEORGE WASHINGTON
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- George Washington Lists facts about the life, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online resources, historical documents, and more on George Washington.
- George Washington The Miller Center provides essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources about George Washington.
- George Washington: The 1st President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of George Washington.
- George Washington Birthplace National Monument Explore the grounds where our first president was born.
- George Washington's Ferry Farm and Historic Kenmore George Washington grew up on this Virginia farm. Discusses his boyhood, the history of the property, and the archaeological finds.
- Mount Vernon This was George Washington's home in Virginia. Here you can learn about our first president, his family, and the grounds of Mount Vernon.
- Washington Monument Tells the history of the 555-foot marble obelisk honoring George Washington and includes a biography of our first President.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- George Washington Paper From the Library of Congress, contains correspondence, military documents, diaries, documents from his presidency, and other materials.
- George Washington's First Inaugural Address
- George Washington's Second Inaugural Address
- The Papers of George Washington View transcripts and the original documents of George Washington's addresses, orders, and letters, from the University of Virginia.
- Washington's Farewell Address Discusses the writing of the address and provides both a digital transcription and images of the original document.
HISTORIC EVENTS
- Alexander Hamilton Papers The Library of Congress presents the personal and public writings of our first secretary of the Treasury.
- The Bill of Rights Provides links about and relating to the Bill of Rights, from the Library of Congress.
- Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park Discusses the textile mill built by Samuel Slater and became operational in 1790 sparking the Industrial Revolution in the United States.
- Cornwall Iron Furnace Discover how iron was made from 1742-1883.
- Daniel Boone Homestead The Pennsylvania homestead where Daniel Boone grew up contains a biography and timeline of his life.
- Eli Whitney Museum & Workshop Contains information about Eli Whitney and his development of the cotton gin.
- The 11th Amendment Explains the 11th Amendment which was ratified on February 7, 1795 that limits what suits the federal government can take.
- Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis National Historic Site Describes the battle fought on August 20, 1794 between U.S. troops and Native Americans.
- Federal Hall National Memorial Tells the story of the site where George Washington was inaugurated and the Bill of Rights were written.
- Federal Judiciary Act (1789) One of the first pieces of legislation enacted by the new Congress established the court system.
- Genet Affair Describes the diplomatic incident when Edmond-Charles Genet came to Charleston, South Carolina to get support to France in their war with Great Britain.
- Hamilton Grange National Memorial Profiles the life and estate of Alexander Hamilton.
- Jay's Treaty Supreme Court Justice John Jay negotiated a treaty between Great Britain and the United States in 1794. Contains links to documents about and relating to Jay's Treaty.
- John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Explores the region where the American Industrial Revolution got its first spark when the Slater Mill in Pawtucket, Rhode Island started using the Blackstone River to power its mill.
- John Jay Homestead Profiles the life of our first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and his home in New York.
- Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park Established in 1791, Paterson was the first planned industrial city and where cotton, silk, locomotives, paper, and more products are produced. The original mills were powered by hydropower.
- Patent for Cotton Gin (1794) Presents the original patent for Eli Whitney's machine that separated seeds from cotton fibers.
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John Adams, 1797-1801VICE PRESIDENT: Thomas Jefferson
FIRST LADY: Abigail Smith Adams SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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JOHN ADAMS
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- Adams National Historic Park Explore the home of two U.S. presidents and learn about the Adams family.
- John Adams Lists facts about John Adams including election results, Cabinet members, notable events, and online resources.
- John Adams The Miller Center provides essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources about John Adams.
- John Adams Historical Society Explores the legacy of our second president.
- John Adams: The 2nd President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of John Adams.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- Adams Family Papers The Massachusetts Historical Society has provided images of real letters written by John and Abigail Adams to each other throughout their lives. There is also his autobiography and other writings in his own handwriting!
- John Adams' Inaugural Address
- John Adams Papers Collects the addresses, messages to Congress, and proclamations of President John Adams.
HISTORIC EVENTS
- Alien and Sedition Acts Provides links to original documents about and relating to the Alien and Sedition Acts which were signed into law by President John Adams in 1798, from the Library of Congress.
- History of the Library of Congress In 1800 President John Adams signed into law a bill establishing the Library of Congress. This site briefly highlights the history of the library.
- Naval History and Heritage Command Gathers materials, including photographs and artwork, that describes the history of the United States Navy.
- Reed Gold Mine The first documented discovery of gold in the United States was at this site in North Carolina in 1799. This site describes the gold mine and its history.
- U.S.S. Constitution Describes what life was like on board Old Ironsides and its history. Launched in 1797, it is the oldest commissioned ship.
- Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions Presents the texts of the two resolutions passed by Virginia and Kentucky in response to the Alien and Sedition Acts of 1798. These resolutions were written by James Madison and Thomas Jefferson.
- XYZ Affair Summarizes the events of the XYZ Affair that led to a Quasi War with France.
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Thomas Jefferson, 1801-1809VICE PRESIDENTS FIRST LADY: Martha Wayles Skelton Jefferson (died in 1781)
SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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THOMAS JEFFERSON
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- Historic Tuckahoe This plantation was the boyhood home of Thomas Jefferson.
- Monticello The official website of Thomas Jefferson's beloved home. Here you can learn about Jefferson, his time, the building of Monticello, and the gardens that surround it.
- Popular Forest This 4800 acre estate was Thomas Jefferson's retreat in Forest, Virginia.
- Thomas Jefferson The Library of Congress presents a biography of Thomas Jefferson and his influence around the world.
- Thomas Jefferson Lists facts about his life, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and more.
- Thomas Jefferson The Miller Center provides essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources about Thomas Jefferson.
- Thomas Jefferson: The 3rd President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of Thomas Jefferson.
- Thomas Jefferson Memorial Profiles the life of Thomas Jefferson and the history of the memorial.
- Thomas Jefferson Online The companion website to the documentary by Ken Burns, this site contains Jefferson's important writings including early drafts of the Declaration of Independence and transcripts of interviews done for the film.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- The Papers of Thomas Jefferson Compiles the writings of Thomas Jefferson including his autobiography, addresses, papers, and letters.
- Thomas Jefferson's First Inaugural Address
- Thomas Jefferson's Second Inaugural Address
- Thomas Jefferson Papers The Library of Congress has digitalized Thomas Jefferson's writings and biographical materials in its collection including correspondence, notes, manuscripts, and more.
HISTORIC EVENTS
- The Barbary Wars (1801-1815) Highlights the conflict in North Africa as the United States defended merchant ships from Barbary pirates.
- A Brief History of West Point In 1802, President Jefferson signed a bill establishing the United States Military Academy. this site summarizes the history of West Point.
- The Burning of the USS Philadelphia Describes the incident on February 16, 1804 when the USS Philadelphia was burned in Tripoli Harbor.
- The Burr Conspiracy Trial In 1807, Aaron Burr was brought to trial for treason. This site explores the trial describing the events leading up to the trial, the key figures in the case, original documents and letters, trial arguments and testimony, and Marshall's opinion.
- Creating the United States: The Election of 1800 The Library of Congress compiles some primary sources about the Election of 1800 where Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr received the same number of electoral votes and the presidential election had to be decided by the House of Representatives.
- The Duel From the PBS series, American Experience, this site discusses the duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. It includes biographies, a timeline of events, maps, and more.
- The First Barbary War Depicts the military conflict between American ships and Tripolitan corsairs during the Jefferson Administration.
- Friendship Hill National Historic Site Friendship Hill is the home of Albert Gallatin who served as Secretary of the Treasury during the Jefferson and Madison administrations.
- The Louisiana Purchase Tells the story of Thomas Jefferson's purchase of the Louisiana Territory from the French.
- Louisiana Purchase Bicentennial Published online in 2003 to mark the 200th anniversary of the Louisiana Purchase from France, this site contains a historical overview, timeline, and transcripts and images of original documents.
- Louisiana Purchase Treaty (1803) The National Archives present the text of the agreement where the United States bought the Louisiana territory from France.
- Marbury v. Madison Provides links about and relating to the U.S. Supreme Court case Marbury v. Madison which was decided in 1803, from the Library of Congress.
- Marbury v. Madison (1803) Presents the document in which the concept of judicial review is established.
- Summer 1807: The British Attack the USS Chesapeake and Remove American Sailors Tells how the HMS Leopard attacked the USS Chesapeake off the coast of Norfolk killing three, injuring eighteen Americans while searching for deserters.
- Terrorism in Early America Written by Thomas Jewett, this online article discusses the very first war on terror against the Barbary Pirates.
- The Twelfth Amendment The election of 1800 showed that a change in how the president and vice president was selected was needed. This site explains the twelfth amendment which was ratified in 1804.
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Lewis and Clark's Corp of Discovery |
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- Discovering Lewis & Clark Probably one of America's greatest adventures, this site explores the travels of Lewis and Clark to the Pacific Ocean.
- Explorers: Lewis & Clark Google Earth and PBS Education team up to present this virtual tour of the Lewis & Clark Expedition.
- Gateway Arch National Park Presents information about Thomas Jefferson's role in westward expansion, St. Louis in 1804, the Dred Scot case, and the Virginia Minor case.
- Jefferson's Secret Message to Congress Regarding the Lewis & Clark Expedition (1803) Displays the message President Jefferson sent to Congress requesting funds for the Corps of Discovery before the Louisiana Purchase was completed.
- The Journals of the Lewis and Clark Expedition While on their expedition, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark kept detailed journals. This site from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, provides digital access to those journals with images, supplemental texts, audio files, and more.
- Lewis and Clark: The Journey of the Corps of Discovery The companion website to the Ken Burns documentary, this site offers a lot of information about the expedition including the members of the corps, the Native Americans they met along the way, excerpts from the journals by Lewis and Clark, and interactive maps.
- Lewis and Clark National Historical Park Tells the story of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Site encompasses the Columbia River and their final destination: the Pacific coast.
- Lewis and Clark Trail Heritage Foundation Looks into the history of the Corps of Discovery, the lives of the participants, a timeline of the expedition, and the places they encountered using interactive maps.
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James Madison, 1809-1817VICE PRESIDENTS
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JAMES MADISON
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- James Madison The Miller Center provides essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources about James Madison.
- James Madison Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and other resourcs about James Madison.
- James Madison Museum of Orange County Heritage The official website of the Orange, Virginia museum dedicated to James and Dolly Madison. Here you can learn about the Madison's and the time period they lived.
- James Madison: The 4th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of James Madison.
- James Madison's Montpelier Explore the estate of President James Madison in Virginia, includes the President's and Dolley Madison's biographies and more.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- James Madison Papers The Library of Congress presents a collection of writings by James Madison including his notes on the Constitutional Convention, letters, autobiography, and more.
- James Madison's First Inaugural Address
- James Madison's Second Inaugural Address
- Madison's Treasures From the Library of Congress, here you can view images of James Madison's writings including his Federalist papers, and the Bill of Rights.
HISTORIC EVENTS
- Battle of Tippecanoe Battlefield and Museum The Tippecanoe County Historical Association summarizes the Battle of Tippecanoe between Native Americans led by Tecumseh and his brother Tenskwatawa and American forces led by General William Henry Harrison.
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War of 1812, 1812-1814 |
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- Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine Describes the history of Fort McHenry including the battle that took place in September, 1814, inspiring Francis Scott Key to write the infamous poem and the fort's role in the Civil War and the World Wars.
- A Guide to the War of 1812 Provides links about the War of 1812 including primary sources from the Library of Congress.
- Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve Describes the Battle of New Orleans as well as Cajun traditions, and more.
- Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial Describes the history of the Battle of Lake Erie, the key figures of the War of 1812, and the monument honoring the peace between the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
- River Raisin National Battlefield Park Describes the battles fought during the War of 1812 where the British and American Indians overpowered American troops in January, 1813 and was later liberated in September, 1813.
- The Star Spangled Banner: The Flag that Inspired the National Anthem Discusses the history behind the flag, the poem it inspired, and how the poem became our national anthem. From the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History.
- Treaty of Ghent The Library of Congress provides links about and relating to the Treaty of Ghent.
- War of 1812 The National Park Service describes the events of the War of 1812, key figures of the war, the battlefields of the war, and other resources.
- War of 1812 History Central sponsors this site with summaries of key events of the war, multimedia presentations, and links to other 1812 sites.
- War of 1812 Gathers a collection of maps relating to the War of 1812 from West Point U.S. Military Academy.
- The War of 1812 Website This Canadian website explores army life, battles, biographies, forts and historic sites, and more.
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James Monroe, 1817-1825VICE PRESIDENT - Daniel D. Tompkins
FIRST LADY - Elizabeth Kortright Monroe SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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JAMES MONROE
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- James Monroe The Miller Center provides essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources about James Monroe.
- James Monroe Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and other resources about James Monroe.
- James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library Here you can view the papers of James Monroe and learn about his life and his presidency, including the Monroe Doctrine.
- James Monroe: The 5th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of James Monroe.
- James Monroe's Highland Highland was the home of President James Monroe. Here you'll find information about President Monroe and his Virginia home.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- James Monroe Papers The Library of Congress has digitalized the papers and biographical materials of James Monroe including correspondence and documents from his service as Secretary of State, Secretary of War, delegate to the US Continental Congress, President of the United States, and more.
- James Monroe's First Inaugural Address
- James Monroe's Second Inaugural Address
HISTORIC EVENTS
- Adams-Onis Treaty Briefly describes the events that led to the United States acquiring Florida from Spain.
- Gibbons v. Ogden (1824) Presents the original document in which the Supreme Court ruled that the states cannot pass any laws that would interfere with Congress' right to regulate interstate commerce.
- McCulloch v. Maryland (1819) Presents the ruling of this landmark case that further explained the "implied powers" of the government.
- Missouri Compromise Provides links about and relating to the Missouri Compromise of 1820, from the Library of Congress.
- Monroe Doctrine From the National Archives, here you can view a digitized copy of President Monroe's address to Congress on December 2, 1823 which he stated that European powers should not interfere with the affairs of the Western Hemisphere.
- Panic of 1819 Discusses the first economic crisis in the United States.
- The Seminole Wars Briefly describes the three Seminole Wars that took place after the American Revolution: 1817-1818, 1835-1842, 1855-1858, from the Seminole Nation Museum.
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John Quincy Adams, 1825-1829VICE PRESIDENT: John C. Calhoun
FIRST LADY: Louisa Catherine Johnson Adams SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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JOHN QUINCY ADAMS
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- Adams National Historic Park Explore the home of two U.S. presidents and learn about the Adams family.
- John Quincy Adams The Miller Center provides essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources about John Quincy Adams.
- John Quincy Adams Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and other resources.
- John Quincy Adams: The 6th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of John Quincy Adams.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- The Diaries of John Quincy Adams From the Massachusetts Historical Society, sneak a peek into our sixth president's personal diaries in his own handwriting! Also includes a biographical timeline.
- John Quincy Adams' Inaugural Address
HISTORIC EVENTS
- Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate Explore the life of Henry Clay and his estate in Lexington, Kentucky.
- The B&O Railroad Museum Located at the historic site where the Baltimore & Ohio railroad began the first commercial railroad line, this museum is full of historic locomotives and rolling stock.
- The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Network Compiles links to websites and other online resources relating to or about the history of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad which began construction in 1827.
- The Erie Canal Describes the history of the Erie Canal with maps, images, and more.
- Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor Twenty 23 counties have a portion of this National Heritage Area that examines the history and the influence of the Erie Canal. More information can be found at the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
- Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society Explores the life of Noah Webster. Noah Webster’s American Dictionary of the English Language was published in 1828.
- Two Hundred Years on the Erie Canal Tells the story of constructing, use, culture, and influence of the Erie Canal, from Digital Public Library of America.
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Andrew Jackson, 1829-1837VICE PRESIDENTS FIRST LADY: Rachel Donelson Jackson (died in 1829; Emily Donelson took the duties of First Lady.
SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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ANDREW JACKSON
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- Andrew Jackson The Miller Center provides biographical essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources about Andrew Jackson.
- Andrew Jackson Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and other resources.
- Andrew Jackson: The 7th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of Andrew Jackson.
- Hermitage This is the official website of the home of Andrew Jackson. Here you'll find information about his life and America during his presidency.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- Andrew Jackson Papers The Library of Congress has digitalized its collection of writings and biographical materials of Andrew Jackson including correspondence, military documents, speeches, and documents from his presidency.
- Andrew Jackson's First Inaugural Address
- Andrew Jackson's Second Inaugural Address
- The Papers of Andrew Jackson Compiles the writings of Andrew Jackson during his presidency including addresses, messages to Congress, proclamations, executive orders, and more.
HISTORIC EVENTS
- The Black Hawk War Takes a look at the Black Hawk War in 1832 when Black Hawk led a band of Sauk, Fox, and Kickapoo into Illinois. Written by James E. Lewis from Kalamazoo College.
- Daniel Webster: Dartmouth's Favorite Son Presents a biography of Senator Daniel Webster who was known for his oratories and his debates with Senator Robert Hayne about states' rights.
- In Search of Tocqueville's Democracy in America In 1831 Alexis de Tocqueville came to the United States. He later wrote a book called Democracy in America in which he discusses his travels and observations about the American people and its government. This site explores his life, his travels, and his book and its influence on American society.
- The Inauguration of President Andrew Jackson Provides a first-hand description of the celebration of Andrew Jackson's inauguration as President of the United States by Margaret Bayard Smith.
- Indian Removal Act Provides links to online resources relating to the Indian Removal Act which was passed in 1830, from the Library of Congress.
- Jackson Vetoes Re-Charter of the Second Bank of the US Describes Andrew Jackson's reasons for his veto of the charter renewal for the Second Bank of the United States with other links relating to Andrew Jackson.
- McCormick-International Harvester Collection In the 1830’s Cyrus McCormick developed the reaper, a horse drawn machine that harvested wheat. This site from the Wisconsin Historical Society provides a biographical essay about McCormick and gathers manuscripts and other artifacts relating to his company.
- The Nat Turner Project Tells the story of the 1831 slave revolt in Southampton County, Virginia, led by Nat Turner and includes primary sources, from Meredith College.
- The Nullification Crisis Explains the controversy between Andrew Jackson and South Carolina. South Carolina, led by Vice President John C. Calhoun, opposed Jackson's tariffs claiming they favored northern interests.
- Old Sturbridge Village Explore what it was like to live in the 1830's in New England.
- President Jackson's Message to Congress 'On Indian Removal' (1830) The National Archives presents the document that President Jackson sent to Congress expressing his position on removing American Indians east of the Mississippi.
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Texan Revolution, 1832-1836 |
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- The Alamo The official website of the Alamo with a history of the battle and the Texas Revolution, primary sources and images.
- San Jacinto Museum of History Chronicles the final battle of the Texas Revolution on April 21, 1836.
- Texan Revolution Presents a story map about the Texas Revolution.
- Texas Revolution The Texas State Historical Association describes the Texan Revolution with links to supplemental biographies, battlefields, and more.
- The Texas Revolutionary War (1835-1836) Summarizes the Texas Revolution.
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Martin Van Buren, 1837-1841VICE PRESIDENT: Richard Mentor Johnson
FIRST LADY: Hannah Hoes Van Buren (died in 1819) SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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MARTIN VAN BUREN
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- Martin Van Buren The Miller Center provides biographical essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources about Martin Van Buren.
- Martin Van Buren Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and other resources about Martin Van Buren.
- Martin Van Buren National Historic Site Portrays the life of President Van Buren, his home in New York, and life in antebellum America.
- Martin Van Buren: The 8th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of Martin Van Buren.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- Martin Van Buren: A Resource Guide Gathers links to materials relating to President Martin Van Buren including manuscripts, letters, government papers, images and more from the Library of Congress.
- Martin Van Buren Papers The Library of Congress has digitalized its collection of papers by and biographical material of Martin Van Buren including correspondence and documents relating to his time as Senator, Secretary of State, Vice President, and President of the United States.
- Martin Van Buren's Inaugural Address
HISTORIC EVENTS
- The Aroostook War and the Northeast Border The Maine Historical Society describes the border dispute between the United States and Britain that took place in 1838-1839.
- Caroline Affair Summarizes the 1837 incident when Canadian militia seized the American merchant ship Caroline suspecting it was supplying Canadian rebels.
- Charles Goodyear and the Vulcanization of Rubber Tells the story of Charles Goodyear and his discovery of how to make rubber withstand heat and cold.
- Panic of 1837 Discusses the economic panic that hit at the start of the Van Buren Administration.
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William Henry Harrison, 1841VICE PRESIDENT: John Tyler
FIRST LADY: Anna Tuthill Symmes Harrison SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE:
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WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- Berkeley Plantation Birthplace of Benjamin Harrison, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and President William Harrison.
- Grouseland Grouseland was the home of William Henry Harrison when he served as governor of the Indiana Territory. This site provides information about his life, his estate, and more.
- William Harrison The Miller Center provides biographical essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources about President Harrison.
- William Henry Harrison Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and other resources.
- William Henry Harrison: The 9th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of William Henry Harrison.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- William Henry Harrison: A Resource Guide Assembles manuscripts, letters, government papers, images, and more relating to President William Henry Harrison.
- William Henry Harrison Papers The Library of Congress has digitalized its collection of papers and biographical materials relating to William Henry Harrison including correspondence, and papers from his service as an army officer, Representative, Senator, and more.
- William Henry Harrison's Inaugural Address
HISTORIC EVENTS
- Amistad Trials 1839-1840 Provides biographies, summaries, and primary sources about the slave revolt on board the Amistad and the trials that followed.
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John Tyler, 1841-1845VICE PRESIDENT: Vacant
FIRST LADIES
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JOHN TYLER
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- John Tyler The Miller Center provides biographical essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources.
- John Tyler Lists biographical facts, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and other resources.
- John Tyler: The 10th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of John Tyler.
- Sherwood Forest The Sherwood Forest Plantation was the Virginia home of President John Tyler. This site has a brief biography of the tenth president and describes the history of the estate.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- John Tyler: A Resource Guide The Library of Congress collects digitized manuscripts, letters, government papers, and more.
- John Tyler Papers The Library of Congress has digitalized the papers and biographical materials of John Tyler including correspondence and documents from his time as governor, Representative, Senator, Vice President, and President of the United States.
HISTORIC EVENTS
- Commonwealth v. Hunt Examines the case decided by the Massachusetts Supreme Court that legalized labor unions.
- Joint Resolution Annexing Texas Describes the Joint Resolution that was signed by President Tyler on March 1, 1845 to annex Texas to the United States.
- Samuel F. B. Morse Papers at the Library of Congress A comprehensive collection of the papers and look at the life of the inventor of the telegraph, Samuel Morse.
- The Seminole Wars Briefly describes the three Seminole Wars that took place after the American Revolution: 1817-1818, 1835-1842, 1855-1858, from the Seminole Nation Museum.
- Webster-Ashburton Treaty Presents the text of the treaty that helped define the boundary between Maine and New Brunswick as well as call for the end of the slave trade.
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James Knox Polk, 1845-1849VICE PRESIDENT: George Mifflin Dallas
FIRST LADY: Sarah Childress Polk SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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JAMES KNOX POLK
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- James K. Polk The Miller Center provides biographical essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources.
- James K. Polk Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and other resources.
- James K. Polk Home A very interesting website about our 11th president, his family, and his home in Tennessee.
- James K. Polk State Historic Site This is the homestead where James K. Polk grew up in North Carolina.
- James K. Polk: The 11th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of James K. Polk.
- President James K. Polk State Historic Site Located in Pineville, North Carolina at the homestead where President Polk was born, this site contains information about the museum, his life and presidency, and more.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- James K. Polk Papers The Library of Congress has digitalized its collection of papers and biographical materials of James Polk including correspondence, diaries, speeches, records, and documents from his service as governor of Tennessee, Speaker of the House, and President of the United States.
- James K. Polk's Inaugural Address
HISTORIC EVENTS
- Declaration of Sentiments Presents the full text of the Declaration of Sentiments which came out of the Seneca Falls Convention in July, 1848.
- History of the Interior Highlights the history of the Department of the Interior which was established in 1849.
- Marshall Gold Discovery State Park Summarizes the California Gold Rush at the site where James Marshall discovered gold while inspecting his sawmill.
- Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail In 1846 Mormons began their trek from Nauvoo, Illinois to Salt Lake City, Utah. The National Park Service explores the trail they followed with national landmarks.
- The Seneca Falls Convention: Setting the National Stage for Women's Suffrage Discusses the convention held at the Wesleyan Chapel in Seneca Falls, New York where the Declaration of Sentiments was written.
- Smithsonian Institution: Our History On August 10, 1846, the Smithsonian Institution was established. It is named after James Smithson who was a British scientist and in his will had left his estate to the United States even though he never set foot on American soil. This site highlights the history of the Smithsonian.
- Women's Rights National Historic Park Describes the first Women's Rights Convention in Seneca Falls, New York on July 19-20, 1848 and where the Declaration of Sentiments was signed, from the National Park Service.
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Mexican-American War, 1846-1848 |
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- A Continent Divided: The US-Mexico War Delves into the war with Mexico that took place in 1846-1848. Includes primary sources, biographies, maps, and more.
- The Mexican War From the Lone Star Internet, this site provides a summary of the War with Mexico.
- The Mexican War Gathers maps relating to the Mexican war from West Point U.S. Military Academy.
- Mexican-American War Provides an overview of the Mexican-American War with primary sources, images, and more, from Lincoln/Net.
- The Mexican-American War Focuses on the Mexican-American War with battles, campaigns, and leaders.
- Palto Alto Battlefield National Historic Park Describes the battle between U.S. and Mexican troops on May 8, 1846, from the National Park Service.
- Stephen Kearny: Father of the U.S. Calvary Profiles the life and military career of General Stephen Watts Kearny including his development of the calvary and the victory in California during the Mexican-American War.
- The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Briefly delves into the war between the United States and Mexican between 1846-1848 and presents the text of the treaty that ended the war.
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Zachary Taylor, 1849-1850VICE PRESIDENT: Millard Fillmore
FIRST LADY: Margaret Mackall Smith Taylor SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE
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ZACHARY TAYLOR
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- Zachary Taylor The Miller Center provides biographical essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources relating to Zachary Taylor.
- Zachary Taylor Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, historical documents, and other resources.
- Zachary Taylor: The 12th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of Zachary Taylor.
- Zachary Taylor's Springfield Includes a brief biography of our 12th president and a description of his boyhood home located in Louisville, Kentucky.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- Zachary Taylor: A Resource Guide Compiles digitized manuscripts, letters, government papers, images, and more relating to Zachary Taylor from the Library of Congress.
- Zachary Taylor Papers The Library of Congress has digitalized the papers and biographical materials of Zachary Taylor including correspondence, military records, and papers relating to his presidency.
- Zachary Taylor's Inaugural Address
HISTORIC EVENTS
- Coming Soon
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Millard Fillmore, 1850-1853VICE PRESIDENT: Vacant
FIRST LADY: Abigail Powers Fillmore SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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MILLARD FILLMORE
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORICAL EVENTS
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- Millard Fillmore The Miller Center provides biographical essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources relating to Millard Fillmore.
- Millard Fillmore Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and other resources.
- Millard Fillmore and Buffalo, New York Provides links to biographical information, homes in the Buffalo area, essays about the 13th president, and more.
- Millard Fillmore Presidential Site Tells the history of the East Aurora, New York house which was built in 1826 by the Fillmore and where he began his legal and political career.
- Millard Fillmore: The 13th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of Millard Fillmore.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- Millard Fillmore Papers The Library of Congress has digitalized the papers and biographical materials of Millard Fillmore, including correspondence and documents relating to his career as an educator, U.S. Representative, Vice President, and President of the United States.
HISTORICAL EVENTS
- A Brief History of the US Naval Academy Provides a history of that US Naval Academy which opened on October 10, 1850.
- Compromise of 1850 Provides links to documents and websites about and relating to the Compromise of 1850 from the Library of Congress.
- Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 The full text of the act that allowed slave owners to retrieve escaped slaves even if they were found in a free state.
- Harriet Beecher Stowe Center Contains biographical information on Harriet Beecher Stowe, information on her book Uncle Tom's Cabin, information about her home and other historic buildings, as well as the center's mission and projects.
- The Narrative of Sojourner Truth Presents the memoir of Sojourner Truth published in 1850 and edited by Olive Gilbert.
- Uncle Tom's Cabin, or Life Among the Lowly by Harriet Beecher Stowe The online version of the printing of Stowe's fictional depiction of slavery published by John P. Jewett & Co.
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Franklin Pierce, 1853-1857VICE PRESIDENT: William Rufus King
FIRST LADY: Jane Means Appleton Pierce SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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FRANKLIN PIERCE
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- Franklin Pierce The Miller Center provides biographical essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources about Franklin Pierce.
- Franklin Pierce Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and other resources.
- Franklin Pierce Bicentennial Contains a biography of our 14th president as well as essays and links to other resources.
- Franklin Pierce Homestead Profiles the 14th president and his childhood home in New Hampshire.
- Franklin Pierce: The 14th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of Franklin Pierce.
- The Pierce Manse Provides a biography of the Franklin Pierce and information about his home in Concord, New Hampshire.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
- Franklin Pierce Papers The Library of Congress has digitalized its collection of papers and biographical materials of Franklin Pierce, including correspondence, personal papers, and documents relating to his service as an Army officer, Representative, Senator, and President of the United States.
- Franklin Pierce's Inaugural Address
HISTORIC EVENTS
- The Caning of Senator Charles Sumner Briefly narrates the incident on May 22, 1856 when Representative Preston Brooks beat Senator Charles Sumner with a cane on the floor of the Senate Chambers.
- Eckley Miners Village Museum Describes what life was like in a Pennsylvania coal mining village which was in service 1854-1969.
- Fort Scott National Historic Site Describes the history of the fort, especially its role during "Bleeding Kansas" when abolitionists and slave owners battled over the debate whether or not Kansas would be a free state or a slave state.
- Gadsden Purchase Describes the Gadsden Purchase between the United States and Mexico in 1854.
- Kansas-Nebraska Act Compiles online resources relating to the Kansas-Nebraska Act which was passed in 1854, from the Library of Congress.
- The Seminole Wars Briefly describes the three Seminole Wars that took place after the American Revolution: 1817-1818, 1835-1842, 1855-1858, from the Seminole Nation Museum.
- Territorial Kansas Describes the events prior to the admission of Kansas to the Union, often known as "Bleeding Kansas" where slave and anti-slave supporters clashed.
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James Buchanan, 1857-1861VICE PRESIDENT: John C. Breckinridge
FIRST NIECE: Harriet Lane (Buchanan was a bachelor so his niece performed the duties of First Lady). SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE
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JAMES BUCHANAN
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
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- Buchanan's Birthplace State Park This Pennsylvania park is on the grounds of President Buchanan's birthplace. The site tells the story of property and of James Buchanan.
- James Buchanan The Miller Center provides biographical essays, facts, insights, speeches, and other resources relating to James Buchanan.
- James Buchanan Lists biographical facts, election results, Cabinet members, notable events, online biographies, historical documents, and online resources.
- James Buchanan: The 15th President of the United States The White House summarizes the life and presidency of James Buchanan.
- James Buchanan Resource Center Catalogs resources relating to the 15th President of the United States and includes biographies and a timeline.
- Wheatland Wheatland was the home of our 15th president, James Buchanan. Get information about him, his writings, his family, and his Pennsylvania home.
SPEECHES AND PAPERS
HISTORIC EVENTS
- Dred Scott v. Sanford (1857) Displays the document recording the Supreme Court's decision that slaves were not citizens of the United States and therefore could not be protected by the federal government.
- Gateway Arch National Park Presents information about Thomas Jefferson's role in westward expansion, St. Louis in 1804, the Dred Scot case, and the Virginia Minor case.
- Harpers Ferry National Historical Park Located between the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, this quaint town has been the center of a number of historical events including John Brown's Raid in 1859, a Civil War battle, and a meeting place for the Niagara Movement in 1906.
- John Brown's Holy War This is the companion site of American Experience from PBS. It contains a timeline, maps, profiles of people involved, and special features including the origins of the song "John Brown's Body."
- The Kennedy Farm House The site where John Brown planned the raid on the Federal Armory in Harper's Ferry.
- Mountain Meadows Massacre Chronicles the 1857 murder of 120 men, women, and children, and the trial of Mormon John D. Lee.
- Political Debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas Presents transcripts of campaign speeches, the seven debates, and correspondence between the two candidates during the 1858 campaign for Senator of Illinois, published in 1897 by Burrows Bros. Co.
- The Revised Dred Scot Collection Provides over 400 pages of documents relating to the Dred Scot case and includes a history of the case.
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