Compendium Tarpeia's online repository of thousands of primary source documents from 1492-today. Pick a chapter to view documents. Colonial Era 1492-1763 Chapter 1 La Conquista 1492 ― 1603 View Chapter Chapter 1 La Conquista 1492 ― 1603 Chapter 2 Nova Britannia 1603 ― 1675 View Chapter Chapter 2 Nova Britannia 1603 ― 1675 Chapter 3 Intercolonial Wars 1675 ― 1763 View Chapter Chapter 3 Intercolonial Wars 1675 ― 1763 Revolutionary Era 1763-1783 Chapter 4 Join or Die 1763 ― 1775 View Chapter Chapter 4 Join or Die 1763 ― 1775 Chapter 5 Independence 1775 ― 1784 View Chapter Chapter 5 Independence 1775 ― 1784 Founding Era 1783-1817 Chapter 6 More Perfect Union 1784 ― 1789 View Chapter Chapter 6 More Perfect Union 1784 ― 1789 Chapter 7 Federalist Regime 1789 ― 1801 View Chapter Chapter 7 Federalist Regime 1789 ― 1801 Chapter 8 Republican Liberty 1801 ― 1817 View Chapter Chapter 8 Republican Liberty 1801 ― 1817 Antebellum Era 1817-1849 Chapter 9 Good Feelings 1817 ― 1829 View Chapter Chapter 9 Good Feelings 1817 ― 1829 Chapter 10 Common Man 1829 ― 1841 View Chapter Chapter 10 Common Man 1829 ― 1841 Chapter 11 Manifest Destiny 1841 ― 1849 View Chapter Chapter 11 Manifest Destiny 1841 ― 1849 Emancipation Era 1849-1885 Chapter 12 Sectional Crisis 1849 ― 1860 View Chapter Chapter 12 Sectional Crisis 1849 ― 1860 Chapter 13 Civil War 1860 ― 1865 View Chapter Chapter 13 Civil War 1860 ― 1865 Chapter 14 Reconstruction 1865 ― 1885 View Chapter Chapter 14 Reconstruction 1865 ― 1885 Progressive Era 1885-1913 Chapter 15 Gilded Age 1885 ― 1897 View Chapter Chapter 15 Gilded Age 1885 ― 1897 Chapter 16 New Nationalism 1897 ― 1913 View Chapter Chapter 16 New Nationalism 1897 ― 1913 World Wars Era 1913-1945 Chapter 17 World War I 1913 ― 1921 View Chapter Chapter 17 World War I 1913 ― 1921 Chapter 18 Roaring Twenties 1921 ― 1929 View Chapter Chapter 18 Roaring Twenties 1921 ― 1929 Chapter 19 Great Depression 1929 ― 1941 View Chapter Chapter 19 Great Depression 1929 ― 1941 Chapter 20 World War II 1941 ― 1945 View Chapter Chapter 20 World War II 1941 ― 1945 Cold War Era 1945-1989 Chapter 21 Containment 1945 ― 1961 View Chapter Chapter 21 Containment 1945 ― 1961 Chapter 22 Detente 1961 ― 1977 View Chapter Chapter 22 Detente 1961 ― 1977 Chapter 23 Rearmament 1977 ― 1989 View Chapter Chapter 23 Rearmament 1977 ― 1989 Modern Era 1989-Today Chapter 24 End of History 1989 ― 2001 View Chapter Chapter 24 End of History 1989 ― 2001 Chapter 25 War on Terror 2001 ― 2017 View Chapter Chapter 25 War on Terror 2001 ― 2017 Chapter 26 Crisis of Populism 2017 ― Today View Chapter Chapter 26 Crisis of Populism 2017 ― Today

< Back Federal Government Agriculture Biotechnology, Horticulture, and Research Commodity Exchanges, Energy, and Credit Conservation and Forestry Full Committee General Farm Commodities and Risk Management Livestock and Foreign Agriculture Nutrition, Oversight, and Department Operations Previous Next

Colonial Era Chapter 2: Nova Britannia 1603 ― 1675 Jacobean Age 1603-1625 Caroline Age 1625-1649 Interregnum 1649-1660 Restoration 1660-1675 La Conquista 1492 ― 1603 Previous Chapter Intercolonial Wars 1675 ― 1763 Next Chapter Colonial Era Sponsors In Grateful Recognition "Patrons of the Past" (Sponsoring all nine Eras) Doug Shubert Adam Shubert Cathy Gillespie Sponsors of the Colonial Era: Bernie Frischer Sponsor an Era Documents Filter by Type Filter by Author Reset Filter by Era Master Index Capitulations of Santa Fe Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 04/17/1492 The formal agreement between Christopher Columbus and the Catholic Monarchs, outlining the terms of his voyage, including titles, governance, and a share of profits from any lands discovered. It provides a primary record of how Spain officially authorized and incentivized overseas exploration, establishing Columbus’s authority and the framework for his expeditions. Privileges Granted to Columbus Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 04/30/1492 Issued by Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, the charter grants Christopher Columbus hereditary titles of Admiral of the Ocean Sea, Viceroy, and Governor over discovered lands, along with a share of profits. It establishes a legal and economic framework for exploration, showing how the Spanish Crown incentivized expansion through private enterprise while maintaining authority over commerce, territory, and governance. Columbus' Diary of His First Voyage Christopher Columbus Read Document 08/03/1492 Columbus sailed west under the Spanish Crown seeking a route to Asia, making landfall in the Bahamas on 12 October 1492 and initiating sustained contact between Europe and the Americas. He explored Cuba and Hispaniola and founded the short-lived La Navidad. His 1492–1493 journal, the earliest detailed European account of the Caribbean, survives only through the abstracted transcription of Bartolomé de las Casas. Columbus' Letter of His First Voyage Christopher Columbus Read Document 02/15/1493 Columbus’s letter announcing the results of his first voyage was published across Europe, describing the islands he encountered, their peoples, and the vast potential for wealth and Christian expansion. Framing the discovery as a triumph for Spain, the letter promised new lands rich in resources and ripe for conversion, bolstering Spanish prestige and competition with rival European powers. Inter caetera Pope Alexander VI Read Document 05/04/1493 Issued in 1493, Pope Alexander VI grants Spain rights to lands “discovered” west of a line of longitude while recognizing prior Portuguese claims to lands east of it. Written in Latin, this bull established the principle that non-Christian lands could be claimed by European powers, forming the basis for future colonization of the Americas. Treaty of Tordesillas Pope Alexander VI Read Document 06/07/1494 An agreement between Spain and Portugal, mediated by the Pope, that divided newly discovered lands outside Europe along a meridian 370 leagues west of the Cape Verde Islands. This treaty granted Spain rights to most of the Americas while Portugal secured control over Africa, Asia, and later Brazil, shaping the course of global empire. John Cabot's First Patent Henry VII Read Document 03/05/1496 Venetian explorer John Cabot, sailing under commission from England’s Henry VII, made landfall on the coast of North America, likely Newfoundland, on June 24, becoming the first known European since the Norse to reach the mainland. His voyage laid the foundation for England’s territorial claims in the New World, shaping the future of English colonization. Amerigo Vespucci First Voyage Amerigo Vespucci Read Document 05/10/1497 Amerigo Vespucci, a Florentine navigator working for Spain, claimed to have sailed on a 1497–1498 voyage along the coast of the New World, possibly reaching Central America, though the authenticity of this voyage remains disputed by historians. Decree to Cultivate American Colonies Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 07/22/1497 The Spanish Crown issued royal instructions authorizing Christopher Columbus to promote permanent settlement on Hispaniola by distributing land and requiring colonists to cultivate crops and develop the island’s resources. This decree marked an early shift from exploration toward organized colonization and agricultural exploitation in Spain’s emerging American empire. John Cabot's Second Patent Henry VII Read Document 03/05/1498 Second letters patent issued by Henry VII granting John Cabot authority to outfit up to six ships and return to newly discovered lands (February 3, 1498), expanding royal support for exploration while relying on private financing, after which Cabot departed later that year on a voyage whose date, route, and fate remain unknown, with his pension ending in 1499 suggesting he likely died during or shortly after the expedition. Mundus Novus Amerigo Vespucci Read Document 1503 Mundus Novus is a letter, attributed to Amerigo Vespucci, describing his voyages to the newly encountered lands across the Atlantic. Written in Latin and first printed in 1503, it introduced European readers to the idea that these lands were not Asia, but a “New World” previously unknown to Europeans. The letter emphasizes the vast size, natural wealth, and distinct peoples of these territories, fueling curiosity and prompting further exploration. The Laws of Burgos Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 12/27/1512 Promulgated by King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Juana of Castile in Burgos, Spain; the first comprehensive legal code regulating Spanish conduct, labor obligations, living conditions, and religious instruction of Indigenous peoples in the Americas, initially on Hispaniola and later applied to Puerto Rico and Jamaica, establishing the Crown’s framework for colonial governance and the treatment of native populations. 1 2 3 ... 135 1 ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 ... 135 Biographies Christopher Columbus Christopher Columbus (1451–1506) was a Genoese navigator who sailed under the Spanish Crown and completed four transatlantic voyages beginning in 1492. He is best known for making sustained European contact with the Americas while searching for a western sea route to Asia. His expeditions initiated the Columbian Exchange and Spanish colonization of the Caribbean, though his governance and treatment of Indigenous peoples remain deeply controversial. View Bio Benjamin Franklin Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) rose from humble beginnings as a runaway printer’s apprentice to become a leading writer, scientist, diplomat, and statesman whose influence shaped every stage of America’s founding. Through intellect, wit, and practical wisdom, he helped secure independence, unite the colonies, and design a constitutional republic that could endure. View Bio Roger Sherman Roger Sherman (1721–1793) was a Connecticut statesman and lawyer who played a central role in America’s founding and is the only person to sign all four key founding documents: the Continental Association, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the U.S. Constitution. A delegate to both Continental Congresses and the Constitutional Convention, he later served in the first U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, shaping the early structure of the federal government. View Bio George Washington George Washington (1732–1799) rose from a Virginia planter and provincial officer to become commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and the indispensable leader who secured American independence. He then presided over the Constitutional Convention and served two terms as the first President of the United States, establishing enduring precedents for republican government, civilian control of the military, and peaceful transfer of power. View Bio John Adams John Adams (1735–1826) was a Founding Father, lawyer, diplomat, first Vice President, and the second President of the United States, who played a central role in advocating for independence, drafting the influential Massachusetts Constitution, and securing peace with Britain and France. Known for his steadfast commitment to law, republican principles, and diplomacy. View Bio Thomas Jefferson Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826) was an American statesman, political philosopher, diplomat, and the principal author of the United States Declaration of Independence. He served as the third president of the United States from 1801 to 1809, overseeing the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. A leading advocate of republican government, individual liberty, religious freedom, and public education, Jefferson helped shape the political principles of the early American republic. View Bio Reset Filter by Era Tags Filter by Office Tags 1 2 1 ... 1 2 ... 2

< Back Dean Monsieur Advisor Dean Monsieur is a historian with a specialization in American history and sociology, having written and composed historical documentaries and papers, served as lead historical advisor to non-profit organizations, and even served as vice-executive of political non-profit, American Virtue. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Dean's challenging upbringing fueled his determination to understand the events that shaped his community, his country, and the broader world. More than that, Dean was nagged by the question of not just "what" but "why". Dean found himself at a unique confluence of history, psychology, politics, and sociology, spawning his particular style of historical analysis. Over roughly a decade, Dean educated himself extensively in history through books, online courses, and archives, forming a nuanced understanding of historical events. His breakout into publicity came with the creation of the Monsieur Z Youtube Channel, which has amassed a significant following due to its engaging and accessible historical content. The initial videos on the Monsieur Z channel aimed to blend education with entertainment in the form of what-if scenarios which gave background into historic events before speculating on what might have occurred had history unfolded differently. Over time, however, the Monsieur Z channel began shifting to more strictly educational content. Dean's unique ability to make history entertaining and informative has earned him a reputation as a leading history content creator on the platform. Building on the success of his YouTube channel, Dean produced a highly acclaimed documentary series, the 7 Ages of America , which frames the history of the United States not as a history of one single nation, but of multiple nations who across the history of the United States vied for dominance of national institutions, and repeatedly altered the political character of the country, arguing that the United States has not had one continuous government, but multiple governments/regimes akin to France, Mexico, and Brazil. Through this work, Dean has brought critical historical narratives to a broader audience, highlighting the complexities and intricacies of America's past. In addition to his work in media, Dean served as the Vice-President of political non-profit organization, American Virtue. In this role, he leverages his historical knowledge to inform the organization's mission and activities, particularly in areas related to education, civic engagement, and American culture. Dean’s work has profoundly impacted public understanding of history, earning him invitations to speak at conferences and participate in panel discussions. His dedication to making history accurate and accessible have inspired many. Dean believes that understanding the past is crucial for navigating the present and shaping the future, and he strives to foster a deeper appreciation for history among people of all ages and backgrounds. Youtube- https://www.youtube.com/@MonsieurDean/featured

As Chief Representative you are tasked with being the face of the charity, giving interviews, talking to the press, working with the Chief Networker and Chief of Clientele to organize and run social events to get new clients which include new schools to associate with, new donors, and new students. < Back Chief Representative Apply Now Job Type Volunteer About the Role As Chief Representative you are tasked with being the face of the charity, giving interviews, talking to the press, working with the Chief Networker and Chief of Clientele to organize and run social events to get new clients which include new schools to associate with, new donors, and new students. Requirements Experience with being in front of cameras, doing interviews, talking to the press, essentially being the face of the charity. About the Company Amending America is an educational support services 501(c)(3) that specializes in American History, Civics, and Constitutional Law, and provides a variety of different resources for people to learn from including online courses, research projects, videos, and an extensive library of primary source documents. Apply Now

Revolutionary Era Chapter 5: Independence 1775 ― 1784 Dissolving the Bands 1775-1776 The Great Revolution 1776-1782 Novus Ordo Seclorum 1782-1784 Join or Die 1763 ― 1775 Previous Chapter More Perfect Union 1784 ― 1789 Next Chapter Revolutionary Era Sponsors In Grateful Recognition "Patrons of the Past" (Sponsoring all nine Eras) Doug Shubert Adam Shubert Cathy Gillespie Sponsor an Era Documents Filter by Type Filter by Author Reset Filter by Era Master Index Capitulations of Santa Fe Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 04/17/1492 The formal agreement between Christopher Columbus and the Catholic Monarchs, outlining the terms of his voyage, including titles, governance, and a share of profits from any lands discovered. It provides a primary record of how Spain officially authorized and incentivized overseas exploration, establishing Columbus’s authority and the framework for his expeditions. Privileges Granted to Columbus Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 04/30/1492 Issued by Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, the charter grants Christopher Columbus hereditary titles of Admiral of the Ocean Sea, Viceroy, and Governor over discovered lands, along with a share of profits. It establishes a legal and economic framework for exploration, showing how the Spanish Crown incentivized expansion through private enterprise while maintaining authority over commerce, territory, and governance. Columbus' Diary of His First Voyage Christopher Columbus Read Document 08/03/1492 Columbus sailed west under the Spanish Crown seeking a route to Asia, making landfall in the Bahamas on 12 October 1492 and initiating sustained contact between Europe and the Americas. He explored Cuba and Hispaniola and founded the short-lived La Navidad. His 1492–1493 journal, the earliest detailed European account of the Caribbean, survives only through the abstracted transcription of Bartolomé de las Casas. Columbus' Letter of His First Voyage Christopher Columbus Read Document 02/15/1493 Columbus’s letter announcing the results of his first voyage was published across Europe, describing the islands he encountered, their peoples, and the vast potential for wealth and Christian expansion. Framing the discovery as a triumph for Spain, the letter promised new lands rich in resources and ripe for conversion, bolstering Spanish prestige and competition with rival European powers. Inter caetera Pope Alexander VI Read Document 05/04/1493 Issued in 1493, Pope Alexander VI grants Spain rights to lands “discovered” west of a line of longitude while recognizing prior Portuguese claims to lands east of it. Written in Latin, this bull established the principle that non-Christian lands could be claimed by European powers, forming the basis for future colonization of the Americas. Treaty of Tordesillas Pope Alexander VI Read Document 06/07/1494 An agreement between Spain and Portugal, mediated by the Pope, that divided newly discovered lands outside Europe along a meridian 370 leagues west of the Cape Verde Islands. This treaty granted Spain rights to most of the Americas while Portugal secured control over Africa, Asia, and later Brazil, shaping the course of global empire. John Cabot's First Patent Henry VII Read Document 03/05/1496 Venetian explorer John Cabot, sailing under commission from England’s Henry VII, made landfall on the coast of North America, likely Newfoundland, on June 24, becoming the first known European since the Norse to reach the mainland. His voyage laid the foundation for England’s territorial claims in the New World, shaping the future of English colonization. Amerigo Vespucci First Voyage Amerigo Vespucci Read Document 05/10/1497 Amerigo Vespucci, a Florentine navigator working for Spain, claimed to have sailed on a 1497–1498 voyage along the coast of the New World, possibly reaching Central America, though the authenticity of this voyage remains disputed by historians. Decree to Cultivate American Colonies Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 07/22/1497 The Spanish Crown issued royal instructions authorizing Christopher Columbus to promote permanent settlement on Hispaniola by distributing land and requiring colonists to cultivate crops and develop the island’s resources. This decree marked an early shift from exploration toward organized colonization and agricultural exploitation in Spain’s emerging American empire. John Cabot's Second Patent Henry VII Read Document 03/05/1498 Second letters patent issued by Henry VII granting John Cabot authority to outfit up to six ships and return to newly discovered lands (February 3, 1498), expanding royal support for exploration while relying on private financing, after which Cabot departed later that year on a voyage whose date, route, and fate remain unknown, with his pension ending in 1499 suggesting he likely died during or shortly after the expedition. Mundus Novus Amerigo Vespucci Read Document 1503 Mundus Novus is a letter, attributed to Amerigo Vespucci, describing his voyages to the newly encountered lands across the Atlantic. Written in Latin and first printed in 1503, it introduced European readers to the idea that these lands were not Asia, but a “New World” previously unknown to Europeans. The letter emphasizes the vast size, natural wealth, and distinct peoples of these territories, fueling curiosity and prompting further exploration. The Laws of Burgos Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 12/27/1512 Promulgated by King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Juana of Castile in Burgos, Spain; the first comprehensive legal code regulating Spanish conduct, labor obligations, living conditions, and religious instruction of Indigenous peoples in the Americas, initially on Hispaniola and later applied to Puerto Rico and Jamaica, establishing the Crown’s framework for colonial governance and the treatment of native populations. 1 2 3 ... 135 1 ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 ... 135 Biographies Christopher Columbus Christopher Columbus (1451–1506) was a Genoese navigator who sailed under the Spanish Crown and completed four transatlantic voyages beginning in 1492. He is best known for making sustained European contact with the Americas while searching for a western sea route to Asia. His expeditions initiated the Columbian Exchange and Spanish colonization of the Caribbean, though his governance and treatment of Indigenous peoples remain deeply controversial. View Bio Benjamin Franklin Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) rose from humble beginnings as a runaway printer’s apprentice to become a leading writer, scientist, diplomat, and statesman whose influence shaped every stage of America’s founding. Through intellect, wit, and practical wisdom, he helped secure independence, unite the colonies, and design a constitutional republic that could endure. View Bio Roger Sherman Roger Sherman (1721–1793) was a Connecticut statesman and lawyer who played a central role in America’s founding and is the only person to sign all four key founding documents: the Continental Association, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the U.S. Constitution. A delegate to both Continental Congresses and the Constitutional Convention, he later served in the first U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, shaping the early structure of the federal government. View Bio George Washington George Washington (1732–1799) rose from a Virginia planter and provincial officer to become commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and the indispensable leader who secured American independence. He then presided over the Constitutional Convention and served two terms as the first President of the United States, establishing enduring precedents for republican government, civilian control of the military, and peaceful transfer of power. View Bio John Adams John Adams (1735–1826) was a Founding Father, lawyer, diplomat, first Vice President, and the second President of the United States, who played a central role in advocating for independence, drafting the influential Massachusetts Constitution, and securing peace with Britain and France. Known for his steadfast commitment to law, republican principles, and diplomacy. View Bio Thomas Jefferson Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826) was an American statesman, political philosopher, diplomat, and the principal author of the United States Declaration of Independence. He served as the third president of the United States from 1801 to 1809, overseeing the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. A leading advocate of republican government, individual liberty, religious freedom, and public education, Jefferson helped shape the political principles of the early American republic. View Bio Reset Filter by Era Tags Filter by Office Tags 1 2 1 ... 1 2 ... 2

As Chief Producer you are tasked with managing the product line. You will have the jurisdiction to suggest changes to quality, pricing, which products to sell, which to drop, design of products, all with the consent of the Chief Marketer and Chair. < Back Chief Producer Apply Now Job Type Volunteer About the Role As Chief Producer you are tasked with managing the product line. You will have the jurisdiction to suggest changes to quality, pricing, which products to sell, which to drop, design of products, all with the consent of the Chief Marketer and Chair. Requirements Prior experience with product line management and sales About the Company Amending America is an educational support services 501(c)(3) that specializes in American History, Civics, and Constitutional Law, and provides a variety of different resources for people to learn from including online courses, research projects, videos, and an extensive library of primary source documents. Apply Now

As Chief Educator you are tasked with running Tarpeia Academy, Amending America's online courses. You will oversee the creation and development of courses we provide, promote the curriculum, make changes to the courses when necessary, and report on the impact the courses have on the education of students. < Back Chief Educator Apply Now Job Type Volunteer About the Role As Chief Educator you are tasked with running Tarpeia Academy, Amending America's online courses. You will oversee the creation and development of courses we provide, promote the curriculum, make changes to the courses when necessary, and report on the impact the courses have on the education of students. Requirements PHD or equivalent in history, law, or civics About the Company Amending America is an educational support services 501(c)(3) that specializes in American History, Civics, and Constitutional Law, and provides a variety of different resources for people to learn from including online courses, research projects, videos, and an extensive library of primary source documents. Apply Now

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A DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act) notification, also known as a DMCA takedown notice, is a legal request sent by the copyright owner or their representative to an online service provider, web hosting company, or website operator. The purpose of this notification is to request the removal of content that allegedly infringes on the copyright owner's rights. < Back DMCA Notification Guidelines A DMCA (Digital Millennium Copyright Act) notification, also known as a DMCA takedown notice, is a legal request sent by the copyright owner or their representative to an online service provider, web hosting company, or website operator. The purpose of this notification is to request the removal of content that allegedly infringes on the copyright owner's rights. Digital Millennium Copyright Act Notification Guidelines Notification of Infringement It is our policy to respond to clear notices of alleged copyright infringement. This page explains the information that must be included in these notices, as required by the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (“DMCA”). Upon receipt of a DMCA compliant notice, Amending America ltd., a 501(c)(3) organization (“Amending America”), will expeditiously remove or disable access to the content that is the subject of the notice. If you are a copyright owner or an authorized agent thereof, and you wish to file a notice of infringement with us, then you may submit a notice by providing Amending America’s Designated Copyright Agent with the following information in writing (please consult your legal counsel or See 17 U.S.C. Section 512(c)(3) to confirm these requirements): A physical or electronic signature of a person authorized to act on behalf of the owner of an exclusive right that is allegedly infringed. Identification of the copyrighted work claimed to have been infringed, or, if multiple copyrighted works on Amending America’s website are covered by a single notification, a representative list of such works at that site. Identification of the material that is claimed to be infringing or to be the subject of infringing activity and that is to be removed or access to which is to be disabled, and information reasonably sufficient to permit Amending America to locate the material. Information reasonably sufficient to permit Amending America to contact you, such as an address, telephone number, and, if available, an electronic mail address at which you may be contacted. A statement that you have a good faith belief that use of the material in the manner complained of is not authorized by the copyright owner, its agent, or the law. A statement that the information in the notification is accurate, and under penalty of perjury, that you are authorized to act on behalf of the owner of an exclusive right that is allegedly infringed. Please note that under Section 512(f) of the DMCA, any person who knowingly materially misrepresents that material or activity is infringing may be subject to liability. If you are unsure whether the material available online infringes your copyright, we suggest that you contact an attorney before sending us a notice. Counter-Notification The administrator of an affected site or the provider of affected content may make a counter notification under sections 512(g)(2) and (3) of the DMCA. If you elect to send us a counter notice, to be effective it must be a written communication that includes the following (please consult your legal counsel or See 17 U.S.C. Section 512(g)(3) to confirm these requirements): A physical or electronic signature of the subscriber. Identification of the material that has been removed or to which access has been disabled and the location at which the material appeared before it was removed or access to it was disabled. A statement under penalty of perjury that the subscriber has a good faith belief that the material was removed or disabled as a result of mistake or misidentification of the material to be removed or disabled. The subscriber’s name, address, and telephone number, and a statement that the subscriber consents to the jurisdiction of Federal District Court for the judicial district in which the address is located, or if the subscriber’s address is outside of the United States, for any judicial district in which Amending America may be found, and that the subscriber will accept service of process from the person who provided notification under subsection (c)(1)(C) or an agent of such person. Please note that under Section 512(f) of the Copyright Act, any person who knowingly materially misrepresents that material or activity was removed or disabled by mistake or misidentification may be subject to liability. Designated Copyright Agent Amending America’s Designated Copyright Agent to receive notifications and counter-notifications of claimed infringement can be reached as follows: Email: amendingamericaltd@gmail.com For clarity, only DMCA notices should go to the Khan Academy Designated Copyright Agent. Any other feedback, comments, requests for technical support or other communications should be directed to Khan Academy through info@khanacademy.org . You acknowledge that if you fail to comply with all of the requirements of this section, your DMCA notice may not be valid. Account Termination In appropriate circumstances, Amending America will promptly terminate, without notice, the accounts of those determined in our sole discretion to be "repeat infringers." 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< Back Institute on the Constitution Educational Nonprofit Institute on the Constitution is an educational effort originally out of Pasadena, Maryland, now based in Dover, Delaware. Our desire is to help individuals across America to understand their own history, and to learn and fully appreciate their own heritage by reacquainting them with the worldview and vision of our Founders. We believe that by understanding the way in which the framers of our Constitutional Republic viewed their relationship to God, to other nations, among the various states and to each other, we can gain valuable insight into the foundational principles of America and the difficulties that face us at this time and the times to come. We hope to encourage individuals, families, churches, legislatures, civic and other organizations to become conversant with the foundational principles on which American civil government and proper jurisprudence rest. We believe that, so informed and educated, the American people will be empowered to take an active and meaningful role in the Biblical jurisdictions of family, church and civil government. Our Challenge Alexis de Tocqueville, who toured this country during the 1820 - 30's, and who wrote extensively of his experiences as an observer of American culture, after noting American ignorance about European affairs, wrote the following... “But if you question [the average American] respecting his own country, the cloud that dimmed his intelligence will immediately disperse; his language will become clear and precise as his thoughts. He will inform you what his rights are and by what means he exercises them; he will be able to point out customs which obtain the political world. You will find that he is well acquainted with the rules of the administration, and that he is familiar with the mechanism of the laws. The citizen of the United States does not acquire his practical science and his positive notions from books; the instructions he has acquired may have prepared him for receiving those ideas, but it did not furnish them. The American learns to know the laws by participating in the act of legislation; and he takes a lesson in the forms of government from governing. The great work of society is ever going on before his eyes and, as it were, under his hands.” Clearly, major changes have occurred in America since the time of Tocqueville’s observations and we suffer the results of our current ignorance of our history by living in a culture that gradually acquiesces to increasing infringements on rights and liberties that our Founders considered God-given and unalienable. Indeed, there are many who make the case that we are living in slavery in America at this time.

Emancipation Era Chapter 13: Civil War 1860 ― 1865 Secession Crisis 1860-1861 Preserving the Union 1861-1863 New Birth of Freedom 1863-1865 Sectional Crisis 1849 ― 1860 Previous Chapter Reconstruction 1865 ― 1885 Next Chapter Emancipation Era Sponsors In Grateful Recognition "Patrons of the Past" (Sponsoring all nine Eras) Doug Shubert Adam Shubert Cathy Gillespie Sponsor an Era Documents Filter by Type Filter by Author Reset Filter by Era Master Index Capitulations of Santa Fe Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 04/17/1492 The formal agreement between Christopher Columbus and the Catholic Monarchs, outlining the terms of his voyage, including titles, governance, and a share of profits from any lands discovered. It provides a primary record of how Spain officially authorized and incentivized overseas exploration, establishing Columbus’s authority and the framework for his expeditions. Privileges Granted to Columbus Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 04/30/1492 Issued by Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, the charter grants Christopher Columbus hereditary titles of Admiral of the Ocean Sea, Viceroy, and Governor over discovered lands, along with a share of profits. It establishes a legal and economic framework for exploration, showing how the Spanish Crown incentivized expansion through private enterprise while maintaining authority over commerce, territory, and governance. Columbus' Diary of His First Voyage Christopher Columbus Read Document 08/03/1492 Columbus sailed west under the Spanish Crown seeking a route to Asia, making landfall in the Bahamas on 12 October 1492 and initiating sustained contact between Europe and the Americas. He explored Cuba and Hispaniola and founded the short-lived La Navidad. His 1492–1493 journal, the earliest detailed European account of the Caribbean, survives only through the abstracted transcription of Bartolomé de las Casas. Columbus' Letter of His First Voyage Christopher Columbus Read Document 02/15/1493 Columbus’s letter announcing the results of his first voyage was published across Europe, describing the islands he encountered, their peoples, and the vast potential for wealth and Christian expansion. Framing the discovery as a triumph for Spain, the letter promised new lands rich in resources and ripe for conversion, bolstering Spanish prestige and competition with rival European powers. Inter caetera Pope Alexander VI Read Document 05/04/1493 Issued in 1493, Pope Alexander VI grants Spain rights to lands “discovered” west of a line of longitude while recognizing prior Portuguese claims to lands east of it. Written in Latin, this bull established the principle that non-Christian lands could be claimed by European powers, forming the basis for future colonization of the Americas. Treaty of Tordesillas Pope Alexander VI Read Document 06/07/1494 An agreement between Spain and Portugal, mediated by the Pope, that divided newly discovered lands outside Europe along a meridian 370 leagues west of the Cape Verde Islands. This treaty granted Spain rights to most of the Americas while Portugal secured control over Africa, Asia, and later Brazil, shaping the course of global empire. John Cabot's First Patent Henry VII Read Document 03/05/1496 Venetian explorer John Cabot, sailing under commission from England’s Henry VII, made landfall on the coast of North America, likely Newfoundland, on June 24, becoming the first known European since the Norse to reach the mainland. His voyage laid the foundation for England’s territorial claims in the New World, shaping the future of English colonization. Amerigo Vespucci First Voyage Amerigo Vespucci Read Document 05/10/1497 Amerigo Vespucci, a Florentine navigator working for Spain, claimed to have sailed on a 1497–1498 voyage along the coast of the New World, possibly reaching Central America, though the authenticity of this voyage remains disputed by historians. Decree to Cultivate American Colonies Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 07/22/1497 The Spanish Crown issued royal instructions authorizing Christopher Columbus to promote permanent settlement on Hispaniola by distributing land and requiring colonists to cultivate crops and develop the island’s resources. This decree marked an early shift from exploration toward organized colonization and agricultural exploitation in Spain’s emerging American empire. John Cabot's Second Patent Henry VII Read Document 03/05/1498 Second letters patent issued by Henry VII granting John Cabot authority to outfit up to six ships and return to newly discovered lands (February 3, 1498), expanding royal support for exploration while relying on private financing, after which Cabot departed later that year on a voyage whose date, route, and fate remain unknown, with his pension ending in 1499 suggesting he likely died during or shortly after the expedition. Mundus Novus Amerigo Vespucci Read Document 1503 Mundus Novus is a letter, attributed to Amerigo Vespucci, describing his voyages to the newly encountered lands across the Atlantic. Written in Latin and first printed in 1503, it introduced European readers to the idea that these lands were not Asia, but a “New World” previously unknown to Europeans. The letter emphasizes the vast size, natural wealth, and distinct peoples of these territories, fueling curiosity and prompting further exploration. The Laws of Burgos Ferdinand of Aragon Read Document 12/27/1512 Promulgated by King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Juana of Castile in Burgos, Spain; the first comprehensive legal code regulating Spanish conduct, labor obligations, living conditions, and religious instruction of Indigenous peoples in the Americas, initially on Hispaniola and later applied to Puerto Rico and Jamaica, establishing the Crown’s framework for colonial governance and the treatment of native populations. 1 2 3 ... 135 1 ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 ... 135 Biographies Christopher Columbus Christopher Columbus (1451–1506) was a Genoese navigator who sailed under the Spanish Crown and completed four transatlantic voyages beginning in 1492. He is best known for making sustained European contact with the Americas while searching for a western sea route to Asia. His expeditions initiated the Columbian Exchange and Spanish colonization of the Caribbean, though his governance and treatment of Indigenous peoples remain deeply controversial. View Bio Benjamin Franklin Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) rose from humble beginnings as a runaway printer’s apprentice to become a leading writer, scientist, diplomat, and statesman whose influence shaped every stage of America’s founding. Through intellect, wit, and practical wisdom, he helped secure independence, unite the colonies, and design a constitutional republic that could endure. View Bio Roger Sherman Roger Sherman (1721–1793) was a Connecticut statesman and lawyer who played a central role in America’s founding and is the only person to sign all four key founding documents: the Continental Association, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the U.S. Constitution. A delegate to both Continental Congresses and the Constitutional Convention, he later served in the first U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, shaping the early structure of the federal government. View Bio George Washington George Washington (1732–1799) rose from a Virginia planter and provincial officer to become commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and the indispensable leader who secured American independence. He then presided over the Constitutional Convention and served two terms as the first President of the United States, establishing enduring precedents for republican government, civilian control of the military, and peaceful transfer of power. View Bio John Adams John Adams (1735–1826) was a Founding Father, lawyer, diplomat, first Vice President, and the second President of the United States, who played a central role in advocating for independence, drafting the influential Massachusetts Constitution, and securing peace with Britain and France. Known for his steadfast commitment to law, republican principles, and diplomacy. View Bio Thomas Jefferson Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826) was an American statesman, political philosopher, diplomat, and the principal author of the United States Declaration of Independence. He served as the third president of the United States from 1801 to 1809, overseeing the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. A leading advocate of republican government, individual liberty, religious freedom, and public education, Jefferson helped shape the political principles of the early American republic. View Bio Reset Filter by Era Tags Filter by Office Tags 1 2 1 ... 1 2 ... 2