- During the early 17th century, the Northern government was primarily in the hands of the Pilgrims, who founded Plymouth colony.
- The Mayflower Compact, signed by the Pilgrims in 1620, established a form of self-government.
2. Massachusetts Bay Colony Expansion:
- In 1629, the Massachusetts Bay Colony was founded and quickly grew in population.
- The colony had a representative government with an elected governor and a General Court.
3. Expansion of Territories:
- Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the North experienced territorial growth through settlements and land purchases.
- Territories like New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont were added to the Northern boundaries.
4. Colonial Charters:
- The North American colonies were governed under charters granted by the English Crown.
- These charters defined the rights and responsibilities of the colonists.
5. The American Revolution:
- The Northern government was instrumental in the American Revolution (1775-1783).
- The thirteen colonies united to fight for independence from British rule.
6. The Articles of Confederation:
- After the Revolutionary War, the newly independent states adopted the Articles of Confederation.
- This was the first attempt at a national government, but it was weak and ineffective.
7. The Constitutional Convention:
- In 1787, delegates from the thirteen states met in Philadelphia to draft a new constitution.
- The resulting Constitution of the United States established a stronger federal government.
8. The Three Branches of Government:
- The US government was divided into three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial.
- The Northern states had a significant role in shaping the design of the new federal system.
9. The Bill of Rights:
- The Bill of Rights was added to the Constitution in 1791 to protect individual liberties and rights.
- This further defined the role and limitations of the Northern government.
10. Growing Industrialization:
- The Northern states experienced significant industrialization and economic growth during the 19th century.
- This economic development impacted government policies related to trade, industry, and infrastructure.
11. The Civil War era (1861-1865):
- The Northern government played a central role in the American Civil War, fighting to preserve the Union and abolish slavery.
12. Reconstruction and Beyond:
- After the Civil War, the Northern government led efforts to reconstruct the South and address issues of civil rights and suffrage.
13. Expanding Democracy and Civil Rights:
- Throughout the 20th century, the Northern government continued to grapple with issues of civil rights, voting rights, and social welfare.
In summary, the North government grew and changed significantly over time, from the early Pilgrims' self-government to the establishment of a strong federal system under the Constitution. It faced challenges of territorial expansion, economic development, and social justice, shaping its policies and institutions in response to these changing circumstances.
