An Analysis of the Antebellum Era Essay Example

England industries, Southern states focused on farming and slave trade.

Despite developing in a comparable manner, the North and South regions exhibited numerous social and political distinctions. Notably, the North opposed slavery and slave trade. In terms of energy sources, the North relied on local rivers, coal, and iron-ore to fuel its mills. Furthermore, the North prioritized education, training, and literacy initiatives to enhance the skills and knowledge of its industrial workforce. During the early stages of industrialization, efforts were concentrated on transportation and communication endeavors like constructing the Erie Canal (Copeland. P. 33).

The exportation of industrial products was improved, thanks to the development of railways, roads, and water transport such as steamboats. This development facilitated the movement of goods between the north and south, as well as between different states. Agricultural products were transported from the south to the north, while industrial products, including transportation development products like Eli Whitney's agricultural machineries, were transported from the north. Additionally, machines such as Colt Revolvers and McCormack Reapers were invented. The North's inability to support agriculture due to climate and soil conditions led it to focus on industrialization.

On one hand, the south experienced an increase in production due to the introduction of machinery in agriculture.

The Role of Women

In 1848, a convention held at Seneca Falls, New York marked the peak of American Women Rights' Movement activities. The main objective of this convention was to discuss Social Civil and the Woman’s Religious Condition (Carroll, p. 169) and advocate for women's access rights as full citizens of the United States. Additionally, conventions in Indiana, Massachusetts, Ohio, New York, and Pennsylvania also focused on including women in leadership roles and

fighting for their rights.

Symbolic public forums were utilized for passing resolutions, speeches, and managing the women's petition campaign. These forums primarily acknowledged the importance of women's presence in public opinion and political affairs. In 1850, during the Women Right Convention in Ohio, exclusive participation of women was allowed for making speeches, engaging in discussions, and holding conversations.

The increased influence and ability of women in public decision-making matters were enhanced by these developments (Carroll, p. 171). Numerous activists strived for the rights of married women, including property rights, equal custody rights, the right to divorce, and control over a wife's wages. These changes not only empowered women but also improved their representation in public life.

The Manifest Destiny

Between 1815 and 1850, the Manifest Destiny emerged. This doctrine held the belief that the expansion of American territory throughout the entire continent was not only inevitable but also justified. It was followed during the annexation of territories like Texas, Hawaii, Oregon, California, and others. In the 1840s, Anglo-Saxon Americans became interested in expanding their institutions and civilization beyond the previous boundaries of the United States. According to O’Sullivan, this expansion was aimed at expanding Providence's blessings for the free development of millions who were increasing in number each year (Copeland, p.).

16) Utilizing quasi-Darwinist logic, the expansionists justified their choice, resulting in the annexation of multiple territories that were not previously on America's ancient map. Consequently, the US expanded in size.

The Era of President Jackson's Presidency

The leadership of President Andrew Jackson left a lasting impact on America, with many of its effects still being experienced today.

President Jackson's leadership had a significant impact on various aspects.

Through the 1834 Coinage Act, he altered the relative value of gold and silver, favoring gold. Notably, gold was abundant in certain American regions like California. In addition, President Jackson played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Democratic Party, which has remained a formidable competitor to the Republican Party (Adams, p. 69). His influence also extended to the Indian tribes through the Indian Removal Act, relocating them to the Mississippi region and offering assurances of safety and settlement.

President Jackson spent his time at the Hermitage transforming his Tennessee plantation into a military headquarters where he worked until 1837. He also played a crucial role in the federal government's efforts to build roads, railways, canals, and bridges. These infrastructure projects effectively connected different regions and states (Adams, p. 73), leading to significant advancements in transportation and stimulating various economic, political, and social activities. The impact of President Jackson's leadership is still evident in the nation today.

Conclusion

Before the Antebellum Era, the United States was mainly an undeveloped country dominated by farmers and frontiersmen.

The Antebellum Era in America, as stated by Adams (2013), Carroll (2016), and Copeland (2003), was a time of significant change and transformation. This period saw the country's emergence as a powerful urbanized economic entity, while also experiencing social and political stability. It stood out for its inclusive treatment of all individuals within society, including women, former slaves (as part of the African American community), and any citizen of the United States. The Antebellum Era is widely acknowledged as a crucial chapter in American history.