Building National Unity Chapter 6

Key Political Figures John C. Calhoun = supported policies that would weaken the national government. Daniel Webster = wanted the central government to take an increased role in building the nation’s economy. Henry Clay = favored a more increased role for the central government.

National Bank The charter for the National Bank for the United States ran out in 1811. A national bank was needed to lend money and regulate the nation’s money supply. A Second bank of the United States was established in 1816.

Protection from Foreign Competition After the War of 1812, foreign goods were once again allowed in the United States. The British could make their goods at a cheaper price then Americans. To protect American businesses from foreign competition Congress passed a protective tariff . The new tariffs made Southerners very angry since they bought a lot of British goods.

Revolution in Latin America and the New Republics The American and French Revolutions inspired many Latin American countries to seek Independence. Most of Latin America had to win their freedom from Spain and Portugal. Many of the new Latin countries modeled their Constitutions after the United States. The new countries had a difficult time setting up stable governments.

The United States gained Florida Under Spanish rule Florida was a refuge for slaves. General Andrew Jackson led forces into Florida to try and capture escaped slaves. Spain was too busy fighting in South and Central America and could not risk war with the United States. Spain agrees to give Florida to the United States in exchange for 5 million dollars . The Adams-Onis Treaty took effect in 1821, officially making Florida a part of the United States.

Monroe Doctrine Americans were worried Spain and other European countries would try to get their colonies in North America back. President James Monroe declared that the United States would not interfere in the affairs of European nations or colonies. Monroe also warned European nations not to interfere with newly independent nations of Latin America. Monroe’s message showed that the United States was determined to keep European powers out of the Western hemisphere.