A new Nationalism

Although the War of 1812 had increased sectional disunity, the postwar period witnessed a burst of American nationalism. Overview

The most dramatic expression of nationalism came during the war in New England. War was opposed by the New England and Mid- Atlantic States Despite embargo and blockade, illegal trade continued. Hartford Convention, a states rights protest, had 22 delegates from five New England states. Group discussed secession from the union but moderates prevailed. Sectionalism

Recognized our political and economic independence from Britain; improved relations with them. Issued the Monroe Doctrine Weakened the Western Indian tribes Encouraged domestic manufacturing because of embargo. War heroes become leaders in the government Effects of War of 1812

Continued to go over Barbary Pirates who were hurting our trade Authorized a peacetime standing army Promoted the “American System” under Henry Clay Nationalistic Fervor

A protective tariff for fledgling American manufacturing. Re-chartered the national bank (Second National Bank of the US) wanted national financing of transportation systems like the Erie Canal. The American System

Agriculture Backbone of the economy, however: Half the population involved in farming, but the value of manufactured goods starting to exceed agriculture by 1850. Increased agricultural productivity made the growth of industry and urbanization possible. Agriculture

Transportation Improvements opened new markets for farm products. Canals and railroads make staple commercial crops profitable. Erie Canal provides a link between the Atlantic and the Great Lakes. Transportation

Changes in Farming Grain and meat production shift to the West Northeastern farmers supply vegetables and dairy products to cities. Southern agriculture becomes dominated by cotton with the invention of the cotton gin. Tenant farming increases. Changes in Farming

American Textile industry Tariffs from the American system protect this industry. Rivers and merchants investing make this possible. Lowell system recruited young farm women on temporary basis to do textile work. Long hours begin; workers try to unite. American Textile industry

Results of Industrialization Increased productivity begins to feed mass consumer markets. Towns and cities grow around factories. Labor shortages stimulate immigration and encouraged inventiveness. Boom and bust cycles become common. Government increasingly involved in promoting industry. Results of Industrialization