AP Unit III: War of 1812 – Van Buren Administration

(Chapters 9-11)

Essential Questions:
1. What factors contributed to the War of 1812 between the United States and Great Britain?
2. What were the developments in transportation and infrastructure that occurred during the early 1800s and their effect on the American economy?
3. Describe the growth of the nation as it relates to the Adams-Onis Treaty and Monroe Doctrine.
4. Trace the development of the political parties from the Era of Good Feelings through
J acksonian Democracy.
5. Why was Jackson determined to destroy the National Bank and what were the effects of his action?
 AP Unit III: War of 1812 – Van Buren Administration
(Chapters 9-11)

1. Answer question 17 from the previous unit assignment about the War of 1812.

2. Who were the War Hawks? What was their role in the War of 1812?

3. How did the War of 1812 contribute to the sense of a national identity? Give an example in your response and explain how it represents
nationalism.

4. Why is the “Era of Good Feelings” considered to be a misnomer?

5. Since the late eighteenth century, the warning was there about the effect of sectionalism on this country. Why, in your opinion, did the
warnings go unheeded? Was it possible to stop the schism that was developing? Why or why not?

6. Why can the Missouri Compromise be described as “sweeping the dirt under the carpet”? Did the government have any other viable
options at the time to deal with this issue? Why or why not?

7. Explain the purpose for the issuance of the Monroe Doctrine. What are the 3 N’s associated with the doctrine? Did this policy statement
have any real power behind it? What led to its global acceptance?

8. What was the significance of the Adams-Onis Treaty?

9. Why was Jacksonian Democracy vital for our nation? What did it represent? In your opinion, does such a political spirit exist today in
regard to American politics?

10. Evaluate Jackson’s Indian Removal policy. Why did he allow such a policy? Are Native Americans today entitled to restitution from the
United States government for policies implemented at this time?

11. Describe the Trail of Tears. How was the legacy of the Powhatan Wars evident?

12. Evaluate Jackson’s decision to “slay the monster bank.” Did he act in the Nation’s best interest? Why or why not? Provide specific
supporting points in your response.

13. DRAW a VENN DIAGRAM (two connecting CIRCLES) that compare the Whig and Democratic parties (make sure to identify
key leaders, too).

14. What factors contributed to the one term presidency of Martin Van Buren? If Jackson had been eligible for another term, do you believe
the situation would have been different for him? Why or why not?

15. As a political advisor, what advice would you have given to Henry Clay? Was it possible to get him elected to the presidency? Why or
why not?