-^^^-^::^^ * ,. % N '"^...♦^ '-" :^^ Wo no^^ ^^^ \^ -. -^^-^a^^^^ o C xV. -n;-^ < 'f *^ \ ' 8 /. ^. ^«' G^^ ,A % ..S'^^^. V >J ^' NEW YOKK : PUBLISHED BY DANIEL BURGESS &l CO. 60 JOHN STREET. 1854. Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the Year One Thousand Eight Hundred and Fifty-three, by EGBERT GUERNSEY, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, for the Southern District of New York. This book is intended for you. It is your own little *' History of the United States." In it you will find many interesting stories, not only about those who lived several hundred years ago, but about many persons with whom your parents or grand-parents are acquainted or have seen. All these stories are true, and we hope you will try and remember them. We shall tell you about the early discovery of this country when it was a vast wilderness, and no one lived here but Indians. You will then see how rapidly the wilderness has passed away and given place to cultivated fields and beautiful towns and great cities. We shall tell you of the sufferings, which the people of this country endured during the long and bloody war of the Eevolu- tion, in which our liberties were obtained. As you con- trast their sufferings and the hardships they endured with IV PREFACE. the present peace, prosperity, and happiness of the coun- try, you can better appreciate the great blessings we enjoy. You will see, in the lives of many of the men about whom we shall speak, a purity, patriotism, and strict in- tegrity of character, you will do well to imitate. In the whole history of the past, you will see how God has watched over us and blessed us, and that if we would be prosperous and happy, we must look to Him for aid and protection. With a fervent hope that in these pages you may not only be amused but instructed, and that in your life you may imitate some of the glorious examples recorded in the history of our country, we shall ever remain your sincere friend, €\)t Ml)m, ©®K]¥[iLi^¥ PAGE. Preface , 3 f nrt l^irst. CHAPTER I. Discoveries of the Northmen. — Christopher Columbus. — His early history, discoveries, and death 11 CHAPTER II. History of the Indians 22 CHAPTER III. Discoveries of different Navigators 28 CHAPTER IV. Expeditions of Sir Humphrey Gilbert and Sir Walter Raleigh 33 CHAPTER V. Virginia. — Settlement. — Captain John Smith 35 CHAPTER VI. New York 40 CHAPTER VII. Massachusetts. — The Puritans 43 VI CONTENTS. CHAPTER VIII. PAGE. Connecticut 40 CHAPTER IX New Hampshire. — Rhode Island 53 CHAPTER X. Settlement of the Middle and Southern Colonies. — New Jersey, Dela- ware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia 65 CHAPTER XI. Indian Wars. — King Philip's War. — King William's War. — Queen Anne's War. CHAPTER XII. French and Indian War 67 CHAPTER XIII. Causes of the American Revolution 71 CHAPTER XIV. Causes of the Revolution, continued 74 CHAPTER XV. Stamp Act - 77 CHAPTER XVI. Causes of the Revolution, continued 82 CHAPTER XVn. Causes of the Revolution, continued - 89 CHAPTER XVIII. Battle of Lexington 92 CONTENTS. vii CHAPT ER XIX. Battle of Bunker Hill PAGE. .. 95 CHAPTER XX. Preparations for War. -.101 ^^art kmt CHAPTER I. Declaration of Independence ........ ..105 CHAPTER II. War of the Revolution.— Battles of Long Island — White Plains Trenton — Princeton ..109 CHAPTER III. Battles of Brandy wine — Germantown — Saratoga. — Lafayette -.117 CHAPTER IV. Treaty between France and America. — Battle of Monmouth ..121 CHAPTER V. Naval Contests -.125 CHAPTER VI. Battle of Camden . — Treason of Arnold ..131 CHAPTER VII. Battle of Cowpens. — Eutaw Springs. — Surrender of Cornwallis Yorktown.— Close of the War at ..138 VIU CONTENTS, fart €]}ixt CHAPTER I. PAGE. Washington elected President 147 CHAPTER II. Jefferson's Administration 152 CHAPTER III. Madison's Administration, — War with Great Britain 155 CHAPTER IV. V/ar Continued 160 CHAPTER V. Monroe's Administration. — Lafayette's Visit 169 CHAPTER VI. Administrations of J. Q Adams, Jackson, and Van Buren 173 CHAPTER VII. Administrations of Harrison and Tyler 179 CHAPTER VIII. Administrations of Polk, General Taylor, and Fillmore. — War with Mexico 183 Conclusion 198 jjOjaTCJMS-l^ /<■ GETS have told us of a winged horse called Pegasus, which could fly through the air with a rapidity far exceed- ing that of the swiftest bird. When they wished to visit ^^^ distant lands, they had only to mount Pegasus, give him the reins, and away he would fly, over oceans and mountains, almost with the velocity of thought. Tliis horse was wild and restless, and played strange pranks witli those who attempted a ride. Only a few could guide 1* '*-v 10 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. liim, yet, like inferior horses, he had a fondness for children, and with them would be as gentle as a lamb. I need not tell my young friends, that God has given each one of them something, which can soar higher, and fly more swiftly than the winged horse of the ancient poets. He has given them thought — imagination^ the power of bringing dis- tinctly before the mind scenes and friends however distant. You have often allowed your thoughts to wander far away. In imagination, while seated quietly at home, or lying in bed, you have visited distant friends, or your thoughts have gone back, and brought fresh before you, the prominent scenes of your past life. Perhaps your thoughts have flown away into the future, and you have imagined what you would do when you were no longer a child. ISTow, in imagination, we are about to commence a long journey. We shall go back into the past hundreds of years, visit distant lands, cross great oceans, high mountains, and wander through dark forests. We shall go back to that time when this whole country was a vast wilderness, its very existence even unknown by the nations of Europe, from whom we are nearly all descended. We shall first mingle with the wild men of this wild land, and then, as we advance, step by step, shall witness the land- ing of the first white men on our shores, the formation of villages, of towns and cities ; the struggle of a young nation for freedom ; the commencement of our great republic — its glorious progress — until it now numbers twenty millions of people ! What a magnificent journey. CHAPTEE I OUR hundred years ago, people living in Europe and Asia did not know there was a great continent across the blue Atlantic Ocean. Even kings and learned men, at that time, knew less about Geography than is known by many of the poorest children at the present day. Tlie wisest sailors were afraid to ven- ture far from land. They thought a belt of heat, which no one could pass, surrounded the earth at the equator. If I ask almost any intelligent child how wide the At- lantic Ocean is, I will be promptly answered, " Three thou- sand miles ;" but, four hundred years ago, no one knew any- thing about the boundary of this ocean. Navigators were afraid of its " haughty winds," " mighty fishes," and " fre- quent tempests." 2. But there were a few bold men, living in the northern countries of Europe, and therefore called the JN'orthmen, 1, Did Europeans know, four hundred years ago, there was a continent across the Atlantic 1 Why were the sailors afraid to venture far from land 1 How wide is the Atlantic Ocean 1 2. When were the Northmen driven out to sea 1 Where did they land 1 12 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. who, about the latter part of the tenth century, had been driven out to sea by stormy winds — they knew not how many miles — and finally landed on what is now known as the Ame- rican coast. It is supposed they wandered along the coast from the bleak shore of Labrador as far south as Khode Island* and Connecticut. 3. Many suppose they attempted to form settlements in this region. Yery little was ever known about these wan- derers or their discoveries. Centuries rolled away, and their perilous voyages were only spoken of in the songs of their bards. For more than five hundred years after the landing of the Northmen. America was an unknown region. 4. Tlie landing of the Northmen is supposed to have been in the latter part of the tenth or the beginning of the eleventh century. People living at that time were very ignorant, and that age is spoken of as the Darlc Age. But God was bringing about causes which were soon to cast a flood of light on the dark minds of men. 5. After this, about the year 1450, the art of printing was 3. How far did they wander ? Is much known about these wanderers \ How long after the landing of the Northmen was America an unknown region ? 4. What was this age called ? 5. When was printing invented ? What did mariners ascertain by sailing south ? * It is generally believed that the " Old Toicer " at Newport was erected by the Northmen as a baptistry for a church. The Northmen were nominal Chris- tians. The architecture of this " Old Tower " was a style common to the north of Europe, from the eighth to the twelfth century. CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS. 13 invented, and people began to be more intelligent. Mariners ventured by degrees farther and farther south, until they found out there was no belt of heat at the equator, which was imj)assable. 6. At length they reached the southern extremity of Africa, which, in their joy, they called the Cajpe of Good Hope. Mer- chants had for a long while been hoping that some safe and short passage by sea, to the rich lands of the Indies, would be discovered. They thought the Cape of Good Hope would lead to the long wished-for passage. Y. Goods from India had to be carried on the backs of camels and horses, many hundred miles through a wild and almost uninhabited region. This was a dangerous and ex- pensive journey. 8. Everybody believed the earth was flat. The fact of its being a round globe had not yet been determined. But the man w^as living, who was chosen by God to be the harbinger of tidings of great joy to many nations. 9. In the last quarter of the fifteenth century, among the bravest of the brave, and the best of the good, w^as a man called CHRiSToriiER Columbus. He was a citizen of Genoa, a little republic in Italy. While gaining a livelihood as a 6. What did they call the southern extremity of Africa 1 What had merchants been hoping "? Where did they think the cape would lead ? 7. How did goods from India have to be carried ? 8. What was believed about the earth 1 9. Where did Columbus live 1 What was his occupation ? 14 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. pilot, his leisure moments were spent in study and meditation. He had been a sailor from boyhood. His father was proud of his brave boy, and sent him to the best schools of the day to get a knowledge of Geography, Astronomy, and Navigation. 10. When he was about forty-eight or fifty years old, he thought he would go to Lisbon, the city where the learned and adventurous were gathered, who wished to sail on voyages of discovery. 11. While in Lisbon, he married the daughter of a navi- gator, and thus came in possession of many valuable charts and journals. 12. After much study, he came to the conclusion that the earth w^as a large round hall^ which might be traveled around from east to w^est, and that men stood feet to feet at opposite points. That the w^orld might be properly balanced, he be- lieved there must be much land on the Avestern side, which he supposed might be connected with India. Columbus found it very difiicult to make people believe as he did. When he said he was going to turn the prow of his vessel West^ and embark on the unknown. sea on a voyage of dis- covery, many laughed scornfully at him. 10. How old was he when he went to Lisbon % 11. Whom did he marry in Lisbon ? 12. What conclusion did he come to after much study ? What did he think was necessary to balance the world ? Did people believe as he did? ISABELLA OF SPAIN. 15 13. Columbus was a good man ; lie acknowledged God in all his ways. In the midst of all his trials, he was cheered by the firm belief that God had selected him for noble work : he believed he was to be a gos]3el bearer to the heathen in- habitants of unknown lands. 14. Filled with hope — cheered by visions of success — rely- ing on God — he put aside his books and charts and began to think how he could fit out an expedition. He had no money, and but few friends. 15. Hoping the king of Portugal would assist him, Columbus told his plans, and his great hopes of success. But the king, who was John II., would not assist him. Columbus was dis- appointed, but not discouraged. He applied after this to other kings and queens. No one listened favorably to his story. Poor Columbus ! 16. Sick at heart, he was almost ready to give up his darling project, when he was summoned by the virtuous and noble queen Isabella of Spain, to appear once more at court. Again Columbus, as it were, offered to the Spanish king and queen a new world, so sure was he that if he could have vessels to sail on the unknown ocean, he would discover vast 13. What did Columbus believe he was to do ? 14. Had Columbus money or friends ? 15. To what king did he tell his plans 1 Would the king assist him 1 To whom did he then apply ? Would they do anything for him 1 16. Who at length summoned him before her ? What did the king say? What is said of the queen 1 16 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. tracts of land. King Ferdinand said the war they had been engaged in with the Moors, had taken all the money they could spare. Queen Isabella's kind heart was moved by the sorrowful perseverance of Columbus. She hoped not so much that great possessions might be discovered for Spain, as that glad tidings of a Saviour might be carried to the heathen. IT. She came generously forward, saying she would rather pawn her diamonds and jewels than have Columbus fail in his project. Then the great heart of Columbus was cheered. He could hardly help weeping for joy as he left the queen to make preparations for the YOjage. Was it not noble in the queen to prefer the good of others to the adornment of her person ? Diamonds and pearls are beautiful, indeed, but Isabella of Spain needed not the spark- ling gem to make her appear beautiful. 18. The queen furnished two small vessels, and Columbus and some of his friends fitted out a third. They were very unlike the great steamers and floating palaces of our day. They were not much larger than pilot-boats. Only the largest vessel had a deck : this was called the Santa Ifaria. The queen's vessels were called the Pinta and Nina. Co- lumbus sailed in the Santa Maria. One hundred and twenty persons joined Columbus in his great expedition. 17. What did she say she would do ? Which do you like best — Isabella or Ferdinand ? 18. What aid did the queen furnish ? How large were they ? What were their names ? How many persons joined Columbus ? VOYAGE ACROSS THE OCEAN. 17 19. The story of the first voyage of Columbus on the un- kuown ocean is exceedingly interesting. On the 3d of August, 1492, they set sail from Palos in Spain. A few years before, Columbus, burdened with trials and losses, had in this very little town, Palos, begged a bit of bread, and a cup of water for his hungry child — now, as Admiral of a little fleet, with bounding heart he sets sail on his great mission. Little did the crowd on shore, who saw him depart, dream of the glorious future soon to open, not only to Colum- bus, but to the world. Columbus set sail on Friday. Many sailors since then have refused to leave port on Friday, because they are so foolish and superstitious as to believe Friday is an unlucky day. It certainly did not prove so to Columbus. 20. They steered directly for the Canary Islands. There they stopped and refitted their little vessels ; and on the 9th of September, boldly turned their prows to the mysterious West^ and launched on an unknown ocean. Some of the men felt very sad — their sunny homes, their wives and chil- dren, were behind them ; and before them, a boundless waste of water, over which their vessels had never sailed. 21. Columbus had nothing to guide him but the sun and stars, and an imperfect mariner's compass. When they were 19. When did they leave Spain ? From what port did they sail ? 20. Where did they stop first % Why did some of the men feel sad ? 21. What had Columbus to guide him ? What happened when they were about'six hundred miles west of the Canary Islands'? What did many of the sailors declare ? 18 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. about six hundred miles west of the Canary Islands, a sailor came to Columbus, pale with fright, saying that the magnetic needle did not point exactly to the north. They did not know the needle ever varied in its course. The astonishing fact spread like wild-fire among the seamen. Many of them de- clared they believed they were entering another world where were new laws of nature. Columbus used the little know- ledge he had of astronomy to quiet their fears. 22. After this, for several days, they sailed on very hap- pily, wafted along by the trade winds. The trade winds blow continually from east to west. It is said the air was clear and balmy, and now and then a light-winged petrel told them land was near. But Columbus w^as doomed to sufi'er still more from his ignorant and timid crew. For long and weary days they were becalmed, and the alarmed and horne-sick men became almost unmanageable. Many of them mutinied, and de- clared they would throw Columbus overboard if he did not return to Spain. Even the pretty little land-birds, singing their songs so merrily, did not cheer the sailors. They had resolved to throw Columbus overboard, when a branch of thorn, with bright scarlet berries on it, floated by, and soon after a carved staff came on the water to tell them human beings were near to them. Columbus with gentle words 22. How do the trade winds blow 1 What is said of Columbus and his men 1 What hindered them from throwing Columbus overboard 1 What did Columbus promise ? LAND DISCOVERED. 19 promised he would return soon if land were not discovered. He told them how much they had been blessed by God on the voyage, and bade them sail on a few hours longer. 23. Columbus could not close his anxious eyes in sleep. At midnight he caught the glimmer of a light. Dm-ing the night perfumed land-breezes fanned his brow, and, as day dawned, birds of beautiful plumage hovered around the vessels. Columbus was overjoyed when the light of day showed them beautiful wooded shores, with hills and vales, plains, forests, and rocks. 24. Land was discovered on the 12th of October, 1492. They had been about two months on the voyage. 25. Columbus told the men to prepare to land. He dressed himself in gold embroidered scarlet, and, taking the royal standard, first stepped upon the newly discovered shore. 26. On landing, they all fell upon their knees, kissed the earth, and chanted a hymn of praise. Then, Columbus rising from the ground, waved the white banner, drew his sword, and proclaimed to the men that he took possession of the land in the name of Ferdinand and Isabella. 23. What did Columbus see at midnight ? What did daylight show them? 24. When was land discovered 1 How long had they been on the voyage 1 25. How was Columbus dressed when he landed "? What had he in his hand? 26. What was the first thing they did on landing ? What then did Co- lumbus proclaim to the men ? 20 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 27. The land was one of the large cluster of islands called Bahamas. Columbus called the island San 8alvadoi\ 28. As the vessels neared the shore, the naked natives fled with alarm into the forests. At first they thought great monsters from the deep ocean were coming to destroy them. By degrees they left their hiding-places, and began to look with wonder and delight at the scarlet dresses, glittering armor, and shining lace of the Spaniards. The Spaniards, on the other hand, looked with equal wonder on the savages, with their copper-colored skins unclothed, and painted with various colors. Columbus, believing the land was a part of India, called the natives Indians. 29. Perhaps you ask what right Ferdinand and Isabella had to take possession of all heathen lands discovered by their subjects. The land was not an uninhabited desert, but crowded with natives, happy under a government of their own chiefs. 30. The answer to this question tells a sad story of wrongs to the poor Indians. By the law of Christian nations^ the moment the discoverer landed on heathen shores, the lands were no longer owned by the savages'. The discovery of the ]N"ew World has been an event full of blessing to the people 27. What did Columbus call the land he discovered ? 28. What is said of the natives 1 What did Columbus call the native Indians ? 29. By what law did the new land belong to queen Isabella % 30. Has it been better for the people of Europe that a New World was discovered % DEATH OFCOLUMBUS. 21 of Europe, but a sad one for the red man. From the morn- ing of the 12th of October, when Columbus landed on their shores, until the present, an iron yoke and a foreign rule settled on their necks forever. 31. When Columbus returned to Lisbon, he was received with great marks of honor by the king and queen and nobles. They were willing the next time to give him three large ships and fourteen smaller vessels. Columbus made several voyages. In 1498, he discovered the continent of South America at the mouth of the great river Oronoco. He died in the belief that the lands he had discovered were portions of India. 32. Columbus died in 1506. His last days were full of hardships. His best friend, queen Isabella, was dead, and in neglect and disappointment, the great discoverer departed from a world for which he had done so much. The deep furrows in his care-worn face told how much he had suffered. 33. We wish you to remember Chkistophee Columbus as the brave man who first led the way to the New World. In another lesson, I will tell you who discovered the Continent of North America. 31. How was Columbus received on his return? Did Columbus cross the ocean again 1 When did he discover the continent of South America? 32. When did Columbus die 1 What is said of his last days 1 Where was queen Isabella 1 33. Who first led the way to the New World 1 22 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES CHAPTEE II. OLUMBUS looked over the land he dis- covered in vain for a white man. Where- ever he went, he saw the same curious copper-colored beings. Both parties were a wonder to each other. On one side were the lordly Spaniards, oy pale faces ^ as the Indians called them, with their gilded buttons and gold-embroidered clothes. On the other, the almost naked red men, adorned with glittering shells and gorgeous plumes. 2. The simple-hearted Indians did not believe the Span- iards were men like themselves, but ignorantly said they were children of the sun. With outstretched arms they welcomed them to their sunny land. They knew not what a sad fate awaited them. 3. At the time of the first white settlement in America, thousands of Indians roamed over the country. Now there 1. Were there no whites in the New World when Columbus discovered it? What colored people did he see ? 2. What did the Indians think of the Spaniards ? Were the Indians glad to see them ? 3. Were there many Indians in America when the whites first settled here ? Are there many now in the United States ? Where are Indians INDIANHISTORY. 23 are very few to be found east of the Mississippi river ; but far west, toward the setting sun, many still remain. No one knows where the Indians came from. Some suppose they came from Asia across Behring's straits. 4. "The Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will." It is God who orders the rise and fall of nations. God is seen in history. But, dear children, remember also, while God orders the affairs of nations, he will listen to the voice of a little child ; for not even an insignificant sparrow falls to the ground, unnoticed by the all-seeing eye of our Heavenly Father. Eemember, also, when in history you read of nations pass- ing away, one generation coming and another passing away, God never changes — never dies. 5. Soon the whites crowded the Indians from their pleasant places, and built cities and towns, and villages, all over their hunting-grounds — over the graves of their ancestors, and along their much loved rivers. We will tell you something about the Indians. 6. The men are very fond of ornaments, and when they prepare for war, they take great pains to adorn themselves now to be found ? Where did Indians come from 1 Have you ever seen an Indian 1 4. Who orders the rise and fall of nations 1 Will God listen to the voice of a child 1 Does God ever change ? 5. How did the whites soon treat the Indians ? 6. What is said of Indian men ? How do they adorn their bodies ? 24 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. with glittering shells and shining stones. Thej hang their ears and cheeks and nose with ornaments. Their bodies are painted with different colors. Red is the favorite shade. They pierce the skin and then put on the paint. This they call tattooing. The bravest warriors wear the niost paint. Y. Indian women do not think so much of ornamenting themselves. While the men are abroad, engaged in war or hunting, the women till the ground and attend to their chil- dren. Sometimes they follow the hunting parties, and carry their ^ajpjpooses or babies on their backs. 8. As the Indians do not stay very long in one spot, they do not care about building very strong houses. Their houses are called wigwams. Their wigwams are soon built. They have only to drive stakes of wood into the ground, and cover them with the bark and branches of trees. Tliey rest on mats or skins of wild animals. You would not find many articles of furniture in their wigwams : a few wooden dishes, and some spoons, formed from the skulls of wild oxen, and some flint-knives, and a few more rude utensils, are all that they have ever known. Which is their favorite color 1 What is tattooing ? Who wear the most paint ? 7. What is said of Indian women ? How do they carry their children ? What do the Indians call their babies ? 8. What kind of houses do Indians live in 1 What do they call their houses ? Have they beds and bedsteads to sleep on 1 What articles of furniture will you generally see in a wigwam ? INDIAN HISTORY. 25 9. Indians love to roam over the dark forests in search of prey. Their manner of life renders their senses very acute. Their senses of smell and hearing are remarkably acute. A great many wonderful stories are told about the cunning of Indians. 10. Their constitutions are very robust, and they often enjoy uninterrupted health, and live to a great age. Tliey eat very little at a meal' — a handful of maize often suffices them. It is said they looked with amazement at the quantity and variety of food which Europeans consumed. 11. They have no books, and the learning on which w^e spend so much time, they consider of little use. The great deeds of their tribe are told to the women, who rehearse them in turn to their children. All the knowledge they have of former days has thus been handed down by tradition. 12. In their j>nblic councils the wise old men sit in the first seats, the warriors next, and the women and children behind them. Great order prevails ; no one dares to inter- rupt the speaker, and even after he sits down, they all remain 9. Where do Indians love to roam? What is said of the Indian's senses of hearing and smelling? What do you understand by an acute sense of hearing or smelling ? 10. Are the Indians healthy 1 Do Indians eat much at a time ? 11. Have Indians books or schools'? How do Indian children know what happened years ago, if there are no books ? What do you understand by tradition ? 12. Who sit in the first seats in an Indian council? Who sit next to the wise old men ? Have they good order in their public meetings ? 2 26 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. quiet five or ten minutes, to allow him time to reflect whether he has anything else to say. Even in common conversation, the Indians reckoned it highly indecent to interrujDt another. They never contradict or deny the truth of what others assert in their presence. An Indian never stares rudely at any curious object, and, however much he may be surprised, he never shows it by the expression of his face. 13. They never speak but when they have something im- portant to say, and they despise the giddiness and foolish Jesting of Europeans. There are many good traits in the Indian character, which it would be well to imitate. Their behavior is respectful and modest, and they are always at- tentive to the voice of the old men. 14. Hospitality is a well known trait in Indian history. An old Indian once said to a cold-hearted white man, " Our mothers taught us when young to dry the stranger if he is wet, to warm him if he is cold, to give him meat and drink, and if the night-shadows fall, and tlie stranger is with us, she told us to spread furs for him to rest on. For this we ask no beads nor shells. The stranger is welcome in an Indian wigwam. But when I go to a white man's house, and ask for food or drink, they say. Where is your money ? and if I say I have nothing, they drive me from the door." Are Indians polite in conversation 1 Do they stare rudely when they see curious things 1 13. What is said ahout their conversation 1 Do they honor aged persons 1 14, What did an old Indian once tell a cold-hearted white man? INDIANHISTORY. 27 This is not what we expect from people who have the Bible to teach them better. 15. Tlie poor Indians believe in an nnknown God, and in a great many good and bad spirits, who interfere in the affairs of mortals and produce all their joy or woe. They believe their departed friends are forever happy in a cloudless land, where the rivers are stocked w^ith fish, and luxuriant forests abound in game. In the grave of their friends they bury their tomahawks and warlike implements, that they may have them to use in their heaven which is in the sweet south west. 16. As you grow older, you will read many horrid stories of the red men. They have been called revengeful and cruel. By whom ? By their worst enemies — by those who have cruelly wronged them, and blasted every future dream of happiness for them as a nation. The Indians fought for their homes and the graves of their kindred. Once they were free as the unchained wind from heaven. J^orth and south, east and west, the land they saw was all their own. They roamed at will over the broad prairies, and glided in the swift canoe down their majestic rivers. They were happy and free until the civilized white man robbed them of their hunting-grounds and peaceful homes, and made them sinful and wretched by teaching them the vices of civilized life. 15. What is said of the religious belief of Indians ? What kind of a place do the Indians believe their heaven is ? 16. Who have called the poor Indians revengeful and cruel ? Have the whites treated the Indians kindly 1 For what did the Indians fight 1 Were they once happy and free 1 Are they still happy and free 1 Have the white people done what is right 1 28 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES CHAPTEE III. NTELLIGEl^CE of the great discoveries made by Columbus soon spread among the nations of Europe. Other expeditions were fitted out by those who were anxious to share the glory of new discoveries, and obtain possessions in the New World. 2. Among the rest were John Cabot and his son Sebastian Cabot. They sailed from England in May, 1497, and in June discovered the American continent, in the vicinity of Labrador. Tliis was before any one else had reached the continent. They afterwards exjDlored the coast to Maryland. 3. In 1499, Alonzo de Ojeda, a companion of Columbus in former voyages, reached the continent at Paria. Among those who accompanied him was Americus Yespucius, a Florentine gentleman, who, on his return, published a glow- ing account of the voyage. The honor of giving a name to 1. Were other expeditions fitted out after the return of Columbus 1 2. Who are mentioned among- the rest 1 Who did they send from Eng- land ■? When and where did they discover the continent 1 3. When did Alonzo de Ojeda reach the continent ? Who accompanied him 1 What did he do on his return 1 THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH. 29 the continent, was therefore bestowed on him. This was wrong, for he in reality discovered but little. The continent should have been named after Columbus, for he was the pioneer in all these voyages. Several others explored dif- ferent parts of the coast of the United States, and all were delighted with the beauty of the climate, the rich soil, trees, fruit, and flow^ers. They said the country looked like the garden of Eden. 4. France, Spain, Portugal, England, all sent out ships to gain possession of territory in America. But there was one navigator who went for a very curious purpose. His name w^as Juan Ponce de Leon. He was with Columbus when he made his first voyage. He had heard in Spain of a perpetual fountain, said to exist in the !New World, in the midst of a country glittering with gems and gold, which had virtues to renovate the life of those who should bathe in its streams, and restore to youth the happy man who should drink of its ever-flowing waters. De Leon's head was gray with age, and his cheeks browned and furrowed with long service, and he thought he would strive to reach this wonderful fountain, drink of its waters, and become young again. He therefore fitted out three ships, and in a short time discovered Florida, and landed upon the coast near St. Augustine. Although he searched a long time for the fountain, he was obliged to return without finding it. We need not tell you no such fountain ever existed. 4. What other countries sent out ships 1 What is said of Juan Ponce de Leon ? Wliat country did he discover '' 30 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. 5. Pamphilio de Narvaez afterwards attempted to conquer Florida, but lie was driven oiF by the Indians, and nearly all of liis men killed. 6. Florida was supposed to be a land full of diamonds and gold and all kinds of precious stones. Notwithstanding the fate of JSTarvaez, Ferdinand de Soto determined to conquer the country, and so obtain its immense wealth. No sooner had he made known his plan in Spain, than hundreds of the bravest and noblest in the land flocked to his standard, all eager to depart for a land so full of riches. In 1539, they landed in the Bay of Spiritu Santo, in Florida, and com- menced their march in search of gold. Their sufferings were terrible. Constantly exposed to the attacks of Indians, marching through swamps, and over mountains, scorched by the sun, they soon wished themselves back in their native land. They marched hundreds of miles through a country rich with vegetation, yet still they found no gold. In some of their battles with the Indians, their clothes were all destroyed, and they were compelled to make themselves garments of the skins of wild beasts. T. In this condition they wandered through the country, until they came to a mighty river, which had never been discovered before. This w^as the river Mississippi. 5. Who afterwards attempted to conquer Florida ? Was he successful ? 6. What was Florida supposed to be ? Who, after Narvaez, attempted to conquer the country 1 When and where did he land ? Did they suffer in their march "? 7. What place did they at length reach ? D E A T H O F D E S O T O . 31 Here De Soto, worn by fatigue and constant exposure, was attacked by a fever, which terminated his life. His followers wrapped him in a cloak, and in the silence of midnight, lighted by torches, carried him out into the middle of the stream, and buried him in the waters he had discovered. His men at length reached a Spanish settlement in Mexico, and returned to Spain. Tliey had suffered much, and yet found none of that vast wealth for which they so eagerly sought. Twenty-three yeai-s after the death of De Soto, some Span- iards settled at St. Augustine. This is the oldest town in the United States. What is said of De Soto 1 Where was he buried 1 32 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. CHAPTEE lY. AILIKG across the Atlantic was mucli more difficult three or four hundred years ago, than it is now. Then people understood but little about the American coast, and ships were often cast away, and all on board swallowed up by the waves. Sir Humjpliry Gil- tert^ a fine soldier and statesman, was told by Elizabeth, Queen of England, that he might have as much land as he would discover and occupy in America. He therefore, in 1585, set sail with five ships and a considerable number of men, that he might be able to make a settlement in America. He first landed at New- foundland, and then proceeded south. A terrific storm arose soon after, in which the ship and all the crew went down. They struggled hard for life, but the great waves swept them away. The ocean was their grave, and the dark cold water their winding sheet. 2. A step-brother of Gilbert, Sir Walter J^aleigh, having 1. What did Queen Elizabeth tell Sir Humphry Gilbert? When did he set sail 1 Where did he first land 1 What became of the ships and crew 1 2. Who followed Gilbert 1 What name did the Queen give to the country they visited ? NOKTH AND SOUTH VIRGINIA. 33 obtained tlie same permission of the queen, sent his vessels to the Kew World, telling the captains to seek a mild climate. It was in the month of July when these vessels arrived opposite the shores of Carolina, and entered the first con- venient harbor. The flowers were in full bloom, birds of beautiful plumage filled the air with their sweet notes, and the trees were loaded with fruit, and covered with such rich foliage as the sailors had never seen before. When they returned, they told the queen how beautiful the country was. The queen, referring to her unmarried state, called the country Yirginia. 3. In 1585, and also in 158T, Ealeigh sent out a number of emigrants to form a settlement in Virginia, but both of these expeditions being compelled to return to England, the country was left in the quiet possession of the Indians for several years. From 1602 to 1605, several voyages were made ; and bays and rivers on the coast of America, before unknown, explored. The account these navigators gave of the country, on their retm-n home, led a large number of people to think of forming settlements in America. 4. The part of this country claimed by Great Britain, ex- tended from Canada to Florida, and was divided by King James into two parts, which he called North Yirginia and 3. When did Raleigh send out emigrants 1 Were the expeditions suc- cessful 1 4. What part of this country was claimed by Great Britain ? What were the two parts into which King James divided the country called ? To what company did the king give'North Virginia 1 To what South Virginia ? 2* 34 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. South Yirginia. More than a hundred years after Cokimbus had made his great discoveries, two companies were formed in England ; one called the London company, and the other the Plymouth company. To the London company, the king gave South Yirginia, and to the Plymouth company, Korth Virginia SETTLEMENT OF JAMESTOWN 35 CHAPTEE Y. VIRGINIA. IN" 1606, the London company sent over three ships and 118 men, under the command of Newport. They discovered a broad and beau- tiful river, which they named James, after their king. Ascending this river for about fifty miles, they admired the beauty of the scenery, the rich foliage of the trees, and the fruits and flowers which everywhere met their eyes. 2. They landed at the peninsula of Jamestown, and commenced their settlement. The colony might have pros- pered and been happy had they paid any attention to the cultivation of the soil. But they were, most of them, idle persons, who came to this country, hoping they might find here a place where they could live without work. They very soon found their mistake ; for in a short time famine stared them in the face. Without sufficient food, exposed to the heat of the sun, and the changes of a climate to which they were unaccustomed, many of them fell victims of disease and died, and all suffered more or less severely. 1. When did the London company send over ships'? Under whose com- mand 1 What river did they discover ? 2. Where did they land and commence a settlement ? Why did not the settlement prosper ? From what did they suffer 1 36 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 3. Had it not been for one of their number, Captain John Smith, a man of great energy of character, they would either have perished or have been compelled to go back to England. The history of this man from early life, was full of startling adventures and hair-breadth escapes from great dangers and suiferings. He had visited Egypt, Italy, and France, and fought many battles against the Turks. He was at length taken prisoner and sold into slavery, where he was compelled to toil early and late. After a time, he succeeded in making his escape and regaining his liberty. 4. On his return to England, he joined a party about to emigrate for the Xew World. It was well for them that he did so, as he alone could exert any influence over the In- dians. He frequently went out to explore the country. In one of these expeditions he left his crew, with the exception of two Englishmen and two Indians, in the boat with which he had ascended the river and set off into the country. He had not gone far before he saw a large body of Indians in full pursuit, brandishing their clubs and tomahawks, evi- dently wishing to take his life. On coming near him they fired, killed the Englishmen, and wounded himself. 5. Imagine the position in which Smith was placed. Behind him was a large number of savages, determined to make him 3. What can you say of the early life of Captain John Smith 1 4. Where did he go on his return to England 1 Was he afraid of the Indians 1 What became of the two Englishmen who went with him on his expedition up James river 1 6. Describe Captain Smith's attack by the Indians. POCAHONTAS. ' 37 prisoDer, while he was wounded and far away from any hope of help. What did he do? — give up in despair, throw him- self on his knees, and beg for mercy ? No ! but, seizing his Indian guide, held him in front as a shield from the arrows of the Indians, while he, as he fled backward, fired upon the enemy, killing several of their number. At length coming to a swamp, he sunk so deep in it as to be unable to extricate himself, and was taken captive. 6. But the cunning of Smith did not desert him even while in the hands of the Indians, but presenting an ivory compass to the chief, he excited their astonishment by telling them of its singular powers. For a moment they trembled, and thought him a superior being, but their savage feelings returned again, and they bound him to a tree, and would have put him to death had not the chief interfered. He was then taken to Powhattan, their king, and condemned to death. 7. He is led out into the midst of the Indians, bound hard and fast, and his head placed upon a stone. Poor Smith ! must he die ? See that dark band standing around him, their eyes flashing with savage joy. There is no help there — no smile of pity is seen on those swarthy faces. Powhattan raises the club to strike, and draws back to make the blow more sure. Hark ! a shriek of terror rings upon the air, and a beautiful girl rushes from the throng, and throws "her arms 6. How did he excite the curiosity of the Indians ? 7. Who rescued hinn from the threatened death 1 38 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. around the neck of the captive. She puts back the long raven hair from her brow, and lifts her eyes dewy with tears to those stern faces around her, and pleads for the prisoner's life. Who is she ? you ask : her name is Pocahontas. She is the daughter of the king, that stern man who was about to strike the fatal blow. The father's heart is softened ; he lays aside the club, and gives the prisoner liberty. Smith returned to Jamestown. Pocahontas was always after the firm friend of the English. 8. A short time after, her father determined to destroy all the whites at Jamestown. Pocahontas, on a dark and stormy night, traveled through the woods alone, and put the English on their guard. She was afterwards married to an English gentleman by the name of Polf, with whom she lived very happily. In 1609, Smith was injured by a discharge of gun- powder, so that he was obliged to return to England. 9. After the death of Powhattan, who had been the friend of the English since the marriage of his daughter, the In- dians, headed by Op-e-clian-can-onglh^ formed a plan to de- stroy all the whites in the country. They would have accom- plished their bloody purpose, had not some of the settlements received at a latf hour intelligence of the plot and put them- selves on their guard : as it was, some three hundred whites p. i T'Hv did Pocahontas afterwards befriend the English? Whom did she \\v\w\ ? Why was Smith obliged to return to England? i). \\'.-:v ;'ie Indians friendly to the whites after the death of Powhattan ? i Vshat iilaii did th^ Tndinns form? What happened? INDIAN WAKFARE. 39 were butclierecl by the Indiaas in cold blood, and their houses burned to ashes. 10. Nearly twenty years after, this chief, then an old man, again excited the Indians to hostilities against the whites. For a number of months they ravaged the country, leaving the marks of their progress wherever they went, in the blood of their murdered victims, and their houses burned and blackened by the lire. But the whites at length drove them into the woods, killed a great number of them, and took their chief, prisoner. From this time, Yirginia rapidly increased in population, and became so strong that the Indians dared not trouble them. 10. What did the same old chief do twenty years after ? What did the whites at length do ? Did the Indians dare to come back to their pleasant old hunting-grounds 1 40 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES CHAPTEK YI. NORTHERN SETTLEMENTS. NEW YORK. 'NEW YOEK was not originally settled by the English, but by tlie Dutch, and was subject to their laws for a number of years. The Hudson river, one of the most beau- tiful streams of water in the world, was discovered in 1609, by Henry Hudson, an Englishman, but then in the service of the Dutch. He sailed up the river as far as the present city of Albany, and was delighted with the magnificent scenery which everywhere met his eye. 2. The Dutch claimed all the country discovered by Hud- son ; and shortly after his return, a number of emigrants came and built a few houses on the island of Manhattan. The houses were poor, and looked more like hovels than anything else. Yet on this island, which they purchased for 1. Who settled New York 1 Who discovered the Hudson river ? 2. What country did the Dutch claim ? How much did they pay for the island of Manhattan 1 What great city is built on that island 1 How does New York Bay now look 1 NEWNETHERLANDS. 41 ■twenty dollars^ now stands the great and wealthy city of N^ew Yorh^ the largest city in America, and one of the largest in the world. Where those few hovels then stood, can now be seen great buildings several stories high, and filled with costly goods. The rivers and bay, which were then so silent, are now filled with great ships and beautiful steamboats, sailing to every part of the world. 3. The Dutch called their settlement on Manhattan Wew Amsterdam^ after a city in their own country. Their trade gradually extended up the river, and in 1615, they erected a fort near Albany which they called Fort Orange. The whole country they named Wew Netherlands. The country remained in the hands of the Dutch until 1664:, when it was granted by the King of England to his brother, the Duke of York, who soon after sent several ships to take possession of the territory. 4. Arriving at New Amsterdam^ he demanded a surrender of the country. General Stuyvesant, a brave old man, with a wooden leg, was then governor. He was very unwilling to give up the country, and was anxious to have his people take 3. What did the Dutch call the settlement on Manhattan Island 1 What settlement did they make up the river ? What name did they give to the whole country belonging to them ? How long did the Dutch own the country % To whom did the King of England grant the country ? 4. Was the Dutch governor willing to surrender to the English ? What was his name ? Was he brave % Why was he obliged to surrender to the English ? i2 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. up arms and fight. In this, however, he did not succeed, and was obliged to surrender to the English. 5. The name of the place was then changed to JVetv YarJc. after the Duke of York, wdio afterw^ard became James II. The country in a short time was re-conquered by the Dutch, but finally passed into the hands of the English. The people of JVew York, as well as the other colonies, suffered much from the ravages of the Indians, from disease, and also from fatigue in hewing down great forests, and turn- inof the wilderness into cultivated fields. 5. What did the English name Manhattan Island ? Did the Dutch ever try to get possession again 1 Could they ? From what did the people of New York suffer ? MASSACHUSETTS. 43 CHAPTEE YII. MASSACHUSETTS. HE first settlement in New England was at Plymouth in Massachusetts. The character of the people was entirely different from that of the settlers in Yirginia. They came, not to realize visions of fame and wealth, but to have a home where they could w^orship God as they pleased. At home they were exposed to perse- cution, on account of peculiar religious views. By a law of the land, all persons were compelled to attend a church established by government, once every month, or suffer imprisonment. If they refused to attend for three months, they were banished from the country ; and if they refused to go, they were put to death. 2. This was cruel and unjust, and the Puritans felt they had better leave their native land than to be exposed to per- secution. They accordingly sailed to Holland ; but here they were among a race of people speaking a different lan- 1. Where was the first settlement made in New England ? Were there settlers like the people of Virginia 1 Why did they come to America 1 To what were they exposed at home ? 2. Where did they go before they came to America ? 44 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. guage, with different habits and customs. Everything appeared strange, and they finally resolved to seek a home in America. 3. Mr. John Carver was accordingly sent to England to procure a grant of land. This w^as obtained ; and in a short time two small vessels, the Speedwell and the Mayflower^ were ready to carry the pilgrims on their long journey. Eobinson, their minister, with a large part of the congre- gation remained behind. 4. Tlie j)arting of these friends, bound together by the closest ties of Christian love, was very aifecting. The tears streamed down their cheeks, and as they grasped each other's hands, they wept an adieu they could not speak. The ships, after touching at Southampton in England, proceeded on their voyage ; but the Speedwell soon put back and left the Mayflower to pursue its way alone. 5. They expected to land near the Hudson, but after a weary voyage of nearly two months, they came within sight of the bleak shore of Cape Cod. It was now in the m.onth of December, and the weather was so cold that they determined to land at the first conve- nient spot. Sailing along the shore, on the third day, they found themselves in Plymouth harbor. Why did they leave Holland 1 3. Why was Mr. Carver sent to England ? What were the names of the vessels in which the pilgrims came to America 1 4. What is said of the parting of the pilgrims ? What happened to the Speedwell 1 5. Where did they land ? What is said of the weather ? LANDING OF THE PUEITANS. 45 6. The next day was the Sabbath. They loved the holy day, and from that lone ship the voice of i3rayer and the song of praise ascended towards heaven. On the day fol- lowing, the 21st of December, they landed on Plymouth rock, and commenced their settlement. The name Plymouth was given in remembrance of Plymouth in England. 7. What a dreary prospect lay before them ! On one side was the broad Atlantic over which they had just passed, and on the other a wilderness of ice and snow. That winter was a sad and bitter one for the poor pilgrims. Famine and death were in their midst, and before spring returned, they had carried out more than one-half of their number, and buried them in the cold grave. Death at all times is terrible, even when the victim is sur- rounded by friends and all the comforts of life ; but when he falls, far away from his native land, and makes his grave, not among his kindred, but on a foreign shore, there is an additional pang. 8. During the winter, they were undisturbed by the In- dians, and they afterwards learned that four years before a mortal plague had swept through the country, and destroyed nearly all the natives. There is an interesting circumstance connected with this 6. Did they remember to keep holy the Sabbath ? 7. Describe the situation of the pilgrims. How many died during the first winter? 8. Relate the circumstance connected with the pestilence which broke out amontr them. 46 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. pestilence. Several years before, a French ship was wrecked on Cape Cocl, and nearly all the crew destroyed by the na- tives. One who was saved, after he had learned the Indian language, told them how wicked they had been, and that God would punish them for what they had done. But the Indians laughed at him, and asked how God would be able to kill so many Indians. The sailor replied that God was great, and could find some way to punish them. When the plague appeared among them and commenced its fearful ravages, they remembered the words of the sailor, and trem- bled at what they thought the anger of God. 9. After several months, an Indian, named Sam^set^ who had learned a little English of the fishermen at Penobscot, entered the town, saying, '' Welcome, Englishman ! welcome. Englishman !" With his aid, they entered into a treaty of peace with Massasoit, the sachem of the Wampenoags, which remained unbroken for more than half a century. 10. Canonicus, the chief of the Karraganset Indians, jeal- ous of the intimacy between Massasoit and the whites, sent to Plymouth a bunch of arrows wrapped in a rattle snake skin, as a token of his hostility. He thought by doing this he should frighten the English ; but he was very much mis- taken, for the English governor filled the skin with powder and ball and sent it back. Canonicus thought the safest course for him to pursue, would be to let the English alone. 9. What is said of Samoset ? With whom did they make a treaty of peace 1 10. What did Canonicus send to Plymouth ? What did the Englisli governor do '^ RELIGIOUS PERSECUTIONS 47 0A.C.5C Treaty of the Puritans with Massasoit. 11. The spirit of religious persecution still continued in England, and it was not long before the adventurers who settled at Plymouth were followed by hundreds more, who, like them, were willing to suffer the hardships of the emi- grant's life, that they might enjoy religious freedom. Settle- ments w^ere formed at Salem, Boston, Charlestown, Roxbury, Dorchester, &c. 12. We should suppose that persons who had suffered per- secution, would be willing to allow others to enjoy without opposition their owui religious views. ■ This was not the case with the Puritans, for they soon became very intolerant and bitter in their persecutions against those who held different 11, What other settlements were shortly after formed 1 12. Did the Puritans persecute those who did not believe as they did 1 48 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. religious views from themselves. Eoger Williams, a good man, who, like them, had fled from persecution, was ban- ished from the colony for maintaining that toleration ought to be granted to all sects ; that oaths to the king and magis- trates were wrong ; and that the colonial charter was unjust. In 1656, the Quakers were severely persecuted, many of whom were banished from the colony, and some put to death. 13. While Indian war was desolating a portion of the country, the inhabitants of a part of Massachusetts were affected with troubles brought on by their own superstitions. You would hardly believe it possible that old men and women should believe in witches, yet many intelligent per- sons, not only in England, but in the colonies, believed in them ; and, with great gravity, actually passed laws making the crime of witchcraft punishable with death. In the year 1692, the excitement in the colonies com- menced in Danvers, Mass. Children, and even old persons, would fall into convulsions, and conduct themselves strangely, and then accuse some of having bewitched them. Every one was liable to suspicion. A great many persons were thrown into prison, and several were executed. People finally began to be alarmed and open their eyes to the delu- sion. On taking decided measures, witchcraft soon ceased to trouble the people. What did they do to Williams ? Why ? What other persecution is spoken on 13. In what foolish superstition did some of the people believe ? What is said about it ? ■ CONNECTICUT 49 CHAPTEK YIII. CONNECTICUT. HE Dutch, who had settled in New York, understanding the English were about to settle Connecticut, determined to anticipate their movements and settle it themselves. They accordingly, in 1633, sent out a party, who built a fort at Hartford, on the Connecticut river. Tliey thought, by placing a cannon on the fort, they could prevent the English from coming up the river. But they were very much mistaken, for the English soon showed them they did not care for them or their fort. 2. The same season the people of Plymouth sent Captain Holmes to make a settlement in Connecticut. As he sailed up the Connecticut river, and came opposite the Dutch fort, the people in the fort hailed him, and told him to pull down his flag, or they would fire upon him. Holmes did not care for their threats, but sailed past the 1. When did the Dutch build a fort at Hartford 1 2. Who was sent from Plymouth to make a settlement in Connecticut? Did Holmes care for the threats of the Dutch 1 At what place did he settle ? 3 50 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. fort, laughing at the Dutchmen, who were very angry to think they could not frighten him. He soon reached Wind- sor and commenced a settlement. 3. In 1635, sixty men started across the country for Con- necticut from the vicinity of Boston. They unwisely com- menced their journey late in the fall and suffered much from cold and fatigue. Travelling then was very different from what it is now. Tlrere were no fine roads aind bridges ; the whole country was a wilderness, and those who travelled were obliged to ford deep rivers, wade through swamps, and journey for days through dark forests. Now you can go the whole distance, seated in elegant cars, drawn over a railroad by steam, in a few hours. 4. The emigrants, after a long and weary journey, arrived in Connecticut, and settled at Windsor, Hartford, and We- thersfield. They were not permitted to remain very long in peace, for a fierce and hostile tribe of Indians, called the Pequods, living in the vicinity of the Thames river, hated them, and determined either to destroy them or drive them from the country. In 1637, they had committed so many outrages on the w^iites, that the people of Connecticut determined, for their own safety, to commence a war with them. They therefore placed under the command of Captain John Mason as many men as they could spare for the defense of their 3. When did a party start across the country ? 4. Where did they settle 1 What tribe of Indians did they have war with ? INDIAN WARFARE. 51 homes, and sent them against their savage foes. On the morning of the 5th of June, while the Indians were all quiet in sleep, never dreaming that the enemy was so near, Mason with his brave band stole silently up to the host. As they were about entering, a watch-dog gave the alarm, but before the Indians were fairly aroused. Mason was in their midst, shooting them down like sheep. The Indians soon rallied and fought like tigers. For a time nothing was heard but groans, shrieks,' and the roar of fire-arms. Mason, finally growing weary of the fight, seized a burning fire brand, and applied it to the dry wigwam. In a moment they were all on fire, and the poor Indians, as they tried to escape from the flames, were shot down by scores. In this battle, more than six hundred of the Pequods perished. Their power was forever broken ; in a short time this powerful tribe was extinct. After this bloody battle, the people of Con- necticut were not again troubled by the Indians for many years. 5. In 1638, ISTew Haven, now one of the most beautiful cities in the world, was settled by a company from England. They were very pious. On assembling together to make laws, shortly after their settlement, they determined that the Bible should be their only law-book. The Dutch of New York and the people of Connecticut often had severe Under whom did they place the command of their forces ? Who was victorious 1 5. When was New Haven settled ? 52 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. quarrels, and made use of a great many hard words, but finally everything was amicably settled. The people of Con- necticut never liked oppression, and sometimes made use of curious means to avoid it. In 1687, Sir Edmund Andross came to Hartford, having a commission from King James, as governor of New England. Andross demanded that the assembly, then in session, should give up the charter of the colony. The charter was brought in and placed on the table. A warm discussion now took place, during which all the lights were blown out. When they were again lighted, the charter was no where to be found. Capt. Wadsworth had hidden it in the bark of an oak tree, which is now standing, and called the " Charter Oak." In 1693, Col. Fletcher, governor of New York, came to Hartford and demanded that the militia should be placed under his command, saying that he held a commission from the king. The militia were assembled, but when Fletclier commenced reading his ^commission, Captain "Wadsworth ordered the drums to beat. Fletcher was angry, and ordered silence ; but no sooner did he commence reading, than Wadsworth shouted, " Drum, drum ! I say," and then, turning to Fletcher, said, in a voice that made him tremble, '' If I am interrupted again, I will make daylight shine through you !" Fletcher, seeing he could do nothing, went back to New York, and never after troubled the Connecticut militia. When and for what purpose did Andross come to Hartford ? What was done with the charter 1 For what purpose did Fletcher come to Hartford ? ROGEE WILLIAMS. 53 CHAPTEE IX. NEW HAMPSHIRE. EW HAMPSHIKE was a part of Massa- chusetts until 1680. The first settlement was made in 1623, at Little Harbor, in Dover, by a company sent out by Captain John Mason and Sir Ferdinand Gorges. RHODE ISLAND. We have already told you that Koger Williams was banished from Massachusetts. 2. This was not because he was bad, for he was a very pious and good man, but because he believed and preached what the people of Massachusetts thought was wrong. They forgot that they themselves were pursuing the same system of persecution towards Williams as that which made them flee from England. It was in the depth of winter when Williams left the settlement. The ground was covered with snow, and the weather was very cold. Williams suffered severely before 1. When was the first settlement formed in New Hampshiie 1 2. Why was Williams banished from Massachusetts 1 54 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. be reached the Narraganset Indians. These Indians he had before visited, and they now gave him a warm welcome. In the following spring, 1636, a few friends from Massa- chusetts joined him, and they commenced a settlement at the head of Narraganset Bay. God had been very kind to him, and he therefore called the place Providence. In 1639, a settlement was formed at Newport, on the Island of Rhode Island. The colony of Ehode Island prospered and w^as happy. There was no religions persecution there, but all were allowed to worship God as they chose. This was right and just. In the blessed religion taught by our Savior, there is no spirit of persecution, but all is love and peace. » Where did Williams go when he left the settlement ? W^here and when did he commence a settlement ? Why did he call it Providence ? NEW SWEDEN. 55 CHAPTEK X. SETTLEMENT OF THE MIDDLE AND SOUTHERN COLONIES. NEW JERSEY. EW JEKSEY was first settled by the Danes in 1624. It was included in New Nether- lands, so that when New York passed into the hands of the English, New Jersey went it. 1664, the English made a settlement at Eiizabethtown. In the same year, the Duke of York disposed of New Jersey to Lord Berkley and Sir George Carter. The proprietors divided the country by a line running north and south ; hence the names of East and West Jersey. DELAWARE. 2. This state is small in extent of territory, and has fewer inhabitants than any of the other states. It was first settled in 1627, by a party of Swedes and Fins, who called the country New Sweden. They landed near 1. When and by whom was New Jersey settled ? When and by whom did the English make a settlement? 2. When and bv whom was Delaware first settled ? 56 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. Cajpe Henlopen^ and were so much pleased with the place that they called it Paradise Point. They purchased land of the Indians, and lived happily for a number of years. The Indians were very friendly, and sometimes attended church ; but they were not very fond of going. They thought it was not good manners for the min- ister to make such long speeches, and not treat the company with brandy. In 1642, the Dutch Governor of Kew York told the set- tlers to leave the country, for he would not have them there. They concluded, however, that for all his big words, they should stay as long as they pleased. They let the Dutch exercise government over the country, but remained them- selves, and went on much as they had done before. The country afterwards passed, with ISTew Netherlands, into the hands of the English, and at a still later period, was joined to Pennsylvania, and was governed by Penn and his heirs. MARYLAND. 3. Maryland was granted, by the English government, to Sir George Calvert, sometimes called Lord Baltimore. In a short time, he died, and the property passed to his son, who also became Lord Baltimore. Lord Baltimore was a catholic, and wished to have a place When did the Dutch governor tell them to leave 1 Did ihey obey ? Into whose hands did the country at length pass ? 3. To whom was Maryland granted ? What did Lord Baltimore wish ? LORD BALTIMORE. 57 where tliose holding the same religious views as himself could live and not be subjected to persecution. In a short time, a company of emigrants settled on the St. Mary's river, about ten miles above its junction with the Potomac ; these were followed by others, so that in a few years, a large number of persons found a home in Maryland. 4. Lord Baltimore wisely permitted all religious sects to enjoy equal privileges, and allowed the people to make their own laws. He also paid the Indians for all the land he ob- tained from them, and for this reason the Indians never trou- bled the people of Maryland, while in some of the other colonies they butchered the inhabitants in great numbers. It is always best to deal honestly with every one. 5. After a time, the Protestants came into power, and for- getting that the Catholics had tolerated all religious sects, established the church of England by law, and taxed all to support it. They persecuted the Catholics more than twenty years. They manifested a very bad spirit, and returned evil for good. PENNSYLVANIA. 6. This country was named after William Penn, to whom it was granted by King Charles, in 1681, because Admiral When was the first settlement made 1 4. What did Lord Baltimore permit 1 Did he pay the Indians for their land? 5. Who at length came into power? What did they do? 6. Whom was Pennsylvania named after ? 3* 58 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. Penn, the father of William, had rendered important ser- vice to the English government. Penn was a Quaker. He loved to do good, yet he was persecuted on account of his religious opinions. At length he thought he would form a colony in America. He went to the king, and told him his plans. The king laughed at him, and assured him, unless he had soldiers, the Indians w^ould put him in their war-kettles before he had been an hour on their shores. Penn told him he did not want his soldiers, he should depend on something better — on the moral honesty of the Indians, from whom he intended to purchase what land he wanted. During this year, 1681, emigrants came over and settled in his territory, and the year following he came himself, with a large number of his own religious faith. He treated the Indians with great kindness, and invited them to come and see him. 7. At the appointed time, several Indian chiefs, with their warriors, armed with bows and arrows, clubs and tomahawks, their faces painted, and their heads decked with feathers, met Penn and his Quaker friends beneath an elm tree. Penn told the Indians, they were all the children of one father, and the good spirit wished them to be friendly with each other. The Indians were delighted, and a treaty of peace was immediately formed, which was never broken. Who was Penn 1 What did he tell the king 1 When did he arrive in the country ? How did he treat the Indians ? 7. Where did the Indians meet Penn and his friends ? What did they do ? PHILADELPHIA. 59 How much better this Christian spirit, than to have driven the Indians from their grounds by force, and thus be in con- stant danger from their enmity. Kindness will accomplish what force can not. 8. Penn now chose a place for the capital of his colony, between the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers. He laid out the streets in squares, and called the place Philadelphia, which means Brotherly love. Philadelphia is now a large and beautiful city. Penn, in the government of his colony, proved himself a wise and good man. He allowed all religious sects to flour- ish. The laws were just, and the people, in this enjoyment of civil and religious liberty, prosperous and happy. Penn died in Europe, in 1Y18. NORTH CAROLINA. 9. About the year 1650, several emigrants from Virginia settled on the northern shore of Albermarle sound. In 1665, several English planters from Barbadoes settled on Cape Fear river, below the present city of Wilmington. The former place was called Albermarle, after the Duke of Albermarle, and the latter Clarendon, after Lord Clarendon. North Carolina suffered much from bad laws and govern- ors. The Indians frequently harrassed them, and butchered 8. Where did Penn choose a place for the capital of his colony ? What did he call it ? 9. When did several persons from Virginia settle in North Carolina 1 60 HISTOKYOF THE UNITED STATES. many of their number. In 1713, the Tiiscaroras, a large and powerful tribe, came one night, by surprise, on some of the scattered settlement, and killed one hundred and thirty per- sons. The whites saw they were all in danger of being destroyed ; they therefore attacked the enemy with all their force, and drove them from the country. SOUTH CAROLINA. 10. In 1760, a number of English emigrants settled on the Ashley river, just above the present city of Charleston. This place was afterwards called Old Charleston. They soon abandoned this place, and selected a beautiful spot, a short distance below, called Oyster Point, as the site of their fu- ture city. On that spot stands the present city of Charleston. GEORGIA. 11. Georgia was settled the last of the thirteen colonies, by James Oglethorpe, who, with a company of emigrants, commenced the settlement of Savannah in 1733. Oglethorpe was a member of the English parliament. He had a very kind heart, and warmly sympathized with the poor, who were suffering for the common necessaries of life ; he easily persuaded several benevolent persons to unite with him in a plan of furnishing an asylum for these in the new world, where they could enjoy the comforts of life. When did the Tuscarora Indians attack them ? How many did they kill ? 10. When and by whom was South Carolina settled ? At what place? What other place did they soon settle 1 11. When and by whom was Georgia settled ? GEOKGTA. 61 The early settlers in this state were exceedingly poor peo- ple ; notwithstanding they were governed with great justice, and enjoyed all the privileges of freemen, they were still unhappy with their lot. Oglethorpe soon learned that indo- lence was the cause of much of their poverty and suifering. Other emigrants of a better character soon arrived, and in a short time, Georgia assumed a flourishing condition. The colony lived on terms of friendship with the Indians, whose kind feelings Oglethorpe took an early opportunity to con- ciliate. In 1T43, Oglethorpe returned to England. 62 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, CHAPTEK XI. INDIAN WARS. KING Philip's war. ASSASOIT died in 1662, and his son Philip became chief of the allied tribes. These tribes occupied most of the territory now included in the ISTew England states. The spirit of jealousy which had been held in check by Massasoit, now broke forth. The In- 'r^,f dians were anxious for war, that they might drive fS^ the whites out of the country, before they be- came too powerful to resist. An Indian mission- ary, who was a friend of the whites, informed them that the Indians would soon commence a war. For this he was put to death by some of his tribe, as a^traitor. The murderers were discovered, and executed by the whites. This enraged the Indians still more, and they were determined to fight. Pliilip, who was a noble, strong-minded man, saw the diffi- culties they would have to encoimter, and strongly opposed his men, but was finally compelled to yield. 1. When did Massasoit die? Who now became chief of the allied tribes? What spirit was aroused? Why was the Indian missionary put to death ? KINGPHI lip's WAR. 63 The Indians commenced the attack in 16Y5, at Swauzie. The war continued for a long time, and was one of the most cruel and bloody ever fought in America. Tillages were burned, women and children murdered, and their dead bodies hung upon trees. 2. People could not attend church, or gather their harvests without taking their guns with them. Mothers, left alone with their little children, trembled at every sound, lest it should be the stealthy step of the Indian, who would soon burst upon them, from the surrounding forest, and commence the work of death. After having ravaged the western part of Massachusetts, Philip returned to Ehode Island, and obtained the aid of the N"arragansetts, and with three thousand Indians estab- lished himself in a great swamp in the southern part of the state. Here he was attacked by the whites, when a fierce and bloody battle took place, in which one thousand Indian warriors were killed, and a large number taken prisoners. This battle weakened the power of Philip, but increased his hate to the whites. With the remnant of his heroes, in the dead of winter, he wandered through the country, marking his path with fire and blood. Several detachments were sent out against When and where did the attack commence 1 2. What is said of this war 1 How were people at home troubled by the war 1 Of what tribe did Philip obtain assistance ? What followed ? 64 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. him, and during the year two or three thousand Indians were killed or surrendered. Philip's power w^as now gone, but still he bore up until his wife and son were taken prisoners. The heart of the Indian monarch could bear no more. " My heart breaks," he said, "and I am ready to die." He was shortly after surrounded by a party under Captain Church, and in attempting to fly, was shot by a faithless Indian, w^ho said, as he stood over him, "You have been one very great man ; you have made many a man afraid of you ; but so big as you are, I will chop you to, pieces." Thus ended King Philip's War. Many of my young readers will think Philip was a very bad man, but they must remember that he was a savage — that he was a king, and thought the English wished to drive him from his country and take possession of it themselves. Philip fought to sustain his power and the territory which he saw was fast passing away from his tribe. 4. About thirteen years after the close of King Philip's "War, another w^ar broke out, called King William's War, between the French and Indians on one side, and the northern English colonists on the other. During this war, the Indians were guilty of many cruelties. Several towns were burned, How many Indians were killed or surrendered during the year 1 How was Philip killed ? 4. When did King William's war commence ? Between whom was it carried on 1 65 and a great many people cruelly murdered. One winter, in the month of February, a party of Indians attacked Schenec- tady, sixteen miles west of Albany. They came on a cold night, when the snow was very deep, burnt the place, and killed sixty of the inhabitants. Near the close of the war, the Indians attacked Haverhill, Mass. A Mr. Dustan saw them coming, and rushing into the house, he collected seven of his children, placed them in the road, and told them to run. His wife, with a little babe, not a week old, he was compelled to leave behind. Mounting his horse, he rode after his children, but he had not gone far before he saw the Indians pursuing him. His first thought was to place the child he loved best on his horse and make his escape. But they were all equally dear to him, and the father's heart refused to leave one behind. Turning and firing upon the Indians, he covered the retreat of his children, and finally made his escape. Mrs. Dustan was taken prisoner, her babe killed, and she carried 150 miles into the wilderness. She afterwards made her escape and returned to her home. This war lasted seven years, and ended in 1697. QUEEN ANNE's WAK. M Shortly after King William's War, another war broke out between England and France, called Queen Anne's War, This also extended to America, and was attended with much suffering to the colonists. What towns were attacked by the Indians 1 What is said of Mr. Dus- tan fleeing with his children ? 66 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES In 1744, France and England again engaged in war, and the French and Indian colonists followed their example. During this war, Louisbnrgh, a strong French fortress, situated on the island of Cape Breton, was captured by a body of J^ew England troops, aided by an English fleet. We shall speak hereafter of another war, called the French and Indian war. FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. 67 CHAPTEE XII. FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR. ^ FTEE a few years of comparative peace, the colonists were again compelled to endm'e the horrors of war. England and France claimed most of the territory now occupied by the United States and Canada. The French possessions in the north reached from the mouth of the St. Lawrence to Montreal. They had erected trading-houses on Lake Ontario, and settled New Orleans at the south. Claiming the vast amount of territory watered by the Mississippi, they determined to connect their possessions in the north with the south, by establishing what was called a chain of posts, consisting of little settlements or forts within a short distance of each other, from Ontario to New Orleans. 2. A company of traders from London and Virginia had obtained a grant from the King of England of a large amount of land on the Ohio river, and had erected trading- houses there. Disputes between this company and the 1. What were the French possessions in America ? How did they wish to connect their possessions ? 2. Where had a company of traders from London and Virginia settled ? 68 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. French, led to the commencement of hostilities between England and France. During this contest, Washington, then a mere boy but twenty-one years of age, showed by his foresight and judg- ment, his coolness and bravery on the battle field, that he would earn a glorious name in the history of his country. 3. The governor of Yirginia, wishing to employ some one to carry a letter to the French commander on the Ohio, de- manding the reason of hostilities, Washington, notwithstand- ing his youth, was selected for the purpose. The distance was four hundred miles, two hundred of which were through a wilderness, inhabited only by hostile savages. On the way his horse failed. With one companion, a mnsket in his hand, and a pack on his shoulder, he now pursued his way on foot, reached the French fort, and gave the letter to the commander. He returned in safety, after a fatiguing and dangerous journey. 4. The next year, 1Y54:, was marked by the bloody and terrible defeat of General Braddock. He had been sent from Ireland to Yirginia with two regiments of foot. He was brave, but imprudent, and unfortunately despised the colo- nists, who knew much more about Indian warfare than himself. What was the cause of the war ? 3. Whom did the governor send with a letter ? What happened to h>m on his way 1 4. What General was defeated in 1754 ? What place did he wish to attack ■? DEFEAT OF BRADDOCK. Rejecting the advice of Washington, who was his aid-de- camp, to send forward small parties in advance, to see that the way was clear, he rushed forward to attack Fort Du Quesne, till he was suddenly attacked by 400 Indians, who had concealed themselves among the bushes and trees. A total defeat ensued. Xot only was Braddock mortally wounded, but every officer on horseback, with the exception of Washington, was shot down. Washington had two horses shot under him, and four bullets lodged in his coat. Had Braddock followed the advice of Washington, victory instead of defeat might have been the result. 5. The expedition of Governor Shirley of Massachusetts, which shortly followed the defeat of Braddock, was equally unsuccessful, and Oswego was taken by the French under Montcalm. 6. In 1759, the British were everywhere successful. The important post of Niagara was taken by Sir William John- son, and the reduction of Quebec attempted by Wolfe. On the night of the 12th of September, General Wolfe with his troops landed from boats, about half a mile below the city, and dispersing the guards, commenced their fatiguing march up the hill. By early dawn, Wolfe with his little army of five thousand men stood on the heights of Abraham, in bold defiance of Montcalm, the French, general, and his overwhelming forces. What advice did Washington give ? What was the result of the battle 1 5. What is said of the expedition of Shirley ? By whom was Oswego taken ? 70 HISTORY OV THE UNITED STATES. British army approaching the Heights of Abraham. A terrible battle ensued. Both Wolfe and Montcalm were mortally wounded early in the contest. Wolfe, while strug- gling in the agonies of death, caught the shout of "They fly, they fly !" Eaising his head he asked, " Who fly ?" On being told The French, " then," said he, " I die happy," and expired. Five days after, the city surrendered to the Eng- lish. In 1763, peace was established, — France ceding to Great Britain all her northern settlements in America. 6. What post was taken in 1759 1 By whom ? Who attempted to take Quebec 1 When did he ascend the heights of Abraham ? Who were killed in the battle 1 What did Wolfe say when he heard the cry of They fly 1 When was peace declared ? CAUSES OF THE EEVOLUTION. Yl CHAPTEK XIII. CAUSES OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. OU have now been told of the discovery of America, and the settlements made by dif- ferent nations, and know why the Puritans and other settlers were willing to leave their homes in Europe and come to this far distant land of forests and prairies. !N"otwithstanding their privations and struggles, they were happy, be- cause they could worship God as they thought best, and enjoy the rights they prized so dearly. At the time preceding the Revolution, they were in great prosperity. They had nearly doubled in population and wealth in twenty years. As far as the eye could reach they beheld land as fertile as any upon which the sun ever shone, and none but the idle and vicious need want for daily bread. 2. The rapid progress of the colonies in commerce excited the wonder of Europe and the jealousy of England. Is it 1. Of what have you been studying? Why were our forefathers happy in America 1 What is said of them at the time just before the Revolution 1 2. What did the people of Europe and England think of the prosperity of the colonies 1 / 72 HISTORY or THE UNITED STATES not strange that the motherland could feel so unkindly to her absent children ? What would you think of a mother, living in wealth and splendor in England, who had several kind and dutiful children separated from all these luxuries and comforts, living in a far-distant land ? Suppose these absent children worked hard all day long, not only to support their own little home circles, but often sent out sums of money to make their rich mother richer still, and she, instead of rewarding their obedience to her commands, and their filial affection, demanded larger sums, and took away from them many valuable rights. Suppose, too, that foes came around to insult their parent, and the children rose and suc- ceeded in subduing these enemies. But these kind acts and sufferings were not long remembered, and the tyrannical mother boldly and shamefully increased their privations. They felt keenly their privations, and were in much trouble. Petition after petition was sent to the haughty mother, but these were only noticed by fresh insults and grievances. Tlie bonds of a mother's love are strong about them still, and they are unwilling to break them. At last, driven to desperation, they feel that their mother is really their worst foe, and with trembling hands they break away the bond of union, and say, Henceforth we must go on our own way alone. We will he free and independent ! What would you think of a mo- ther so cruel ? Would you say these absent children were to blame for asserting their rights ? 3. England acted like such a mother to her colonies in America. They called England their motherland, and dearly CAUSES OF THE REVOLUTION. 73 they prized her laws and people. It was her avarice and ambition which led her into the fatal error of oppressing children who would have shed their best blood for her in time of need. It was only after a series of cruel acts that tlie American colonies thought of abandoning the protection of the home government. By England's unholy actions they were driven off, and compelled to rear through scenes of suf- fering a home in this new world. 4. You will now be told of dreadful battles and many bloody scenes. War is a great evil, and some wars are very wicked. The American Revolutionary War stands out among the other Eevolutions of this world as a contest for life, liberty, and happiness. Our forefathers appealed to God for the justice of their cause, and we will show you that God heard their cries and broke the tyrant's chain. 3. How did England treat her absent children 1 4. What is said of war ? Was the American Revolution a wicked war 1 To whom did our forefathers appeal for aid ? 4 u HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. CHAPTEK XIY. OR a time the colonists bore their injuries without complaint. It is surprising that they submitted patiently so long. As early as 1651, the acts of the British Parliament were unjust and oppressive. Fearing our forefathers would become too prosperous and rich, they prohibited the importation of sugar and mo- lasses, without the payment of a large sum, called a dutj/^ to the government. They would not allow the introduction from one colony into another of hats and woollen goods of their own manufacture. They would not allow hatters to have, at one time, more than two apprentices, and forbade the manufacture of steel, and passed many other grievous acts. 2. The colonists did not murmur. They regarded Eng- hmd as their parent state, to which they were bound by the dearest ties, and were even happy in being able to advance her grandeur and prosperity. 1. How did the colonists at first bear their injuries 1 What unjust acts did the English pass ? Why did they fear the Americans would become too prosperous 1 2. How did the. colonists behave at first ? CAUSES OF THE KEVOLUTION. Y5 But England was not contented that the colonists should purchase at a great price clothing and several other arti- cles used by three millions of people. She forgot the blood and treasure expended by them during the last war, and went on adding outrage to oppression, and converting a nation of friends into enemies. 3. The tax-gatherers had not been very strict in collecting the duties, and in 1761, orders came from Great Britain that these officers should be more strict in collecting taxes. Then there was a great talk about '^ seai'ch warrants^'' and ''^ writs of assistancey These writs gave the officers of the king power to search for articles suspected of having been brought into the colonies without the payment of the required duties. Then the colonists began to complain of such violent and illegal measures. About this time James Otis, who had been Advocate General for the crown, came forward and disdained to hold an office where he might be called on to assist in oppressing his brethren. He delivered a speech against the ''Writs of Assistance," and boldly proclaimed the great maxim — " That taxation without representation is tyranny P 4. When you grow older and wiser, you will better understand what this maxim means. Mr. Otis meant to make the people of Great Britain understand that they had no right to take 3. What orders came from England in 1761 % What were the writs of assistance, &c. % What is said of James Otis ? What great maxim did he boldly proclaim ? 4. What did the maxim mean % 76 HISTORY OF THE UNITED ST A T E S . away the property of the colonists without their consent. And they had not a right — it was dishonesty and oppression. " Then and there," says President Adams, " American Inde- pendence was born. Tlien and there was the first scene in the first act of opposition to the arbitrary claims of Great Britain. Every man of an immense and crowded audience seemed to go aw^ay as I did, ready to take up arms against writs of assistance." Mr. Adams adds, in another place, " I do say, in the most solemn manner, that Mr. Otis' oration against writs of assistance, breathed into this country the breath of life." 5. Massachusetts has the honor of being the first province in which the people boldly declared that they w^ould not sub- mit to the tyranny of the King of England. Their fathers braved the perils of the pathless ocean to seek a free and happy home, and nobly their children fought to keep those homes happy and free. What did President Adams say about James Otis' oration 1 6. What is said of Massachusetts ? CAUSES OF THE REVOLUTION T7 CHAPTEE XY. HE English people were determined to make the colonies submit to their cruel laws, and said they had a right to make laws for and to tax them. This was so much the public talk that a great and wise English minister, named Pitt, said, "Even the chimney-sweepers on the streets talked boastingly of their subjects in Ame- rica. 2. In 1Y65, the celebrated Stamp Act was passed. By this act, the people of Great Britain thought they would gather a vast amount of money. Their treasury was empty, and all over England the people were complaining of the heavy taxes they had to pay to support the government. So the Prime Minister, Lord Grenville, resolved to get some money by taxing the Americans. He ordered that they should buy of the English, at a very high price, all the paper they wished to use for notes, bonds, deeds, almanacs, news- papers, &c. This paper was all to have on it the stamp of the 1. What is said of the English people ? What did Mr. Pitt say about the chimney-sweepers ? 2. What was the stamp act % Why did the English make the stamp act? 78 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. crown, and the people were to pay a tax for it, and they were to be severely punished if they used any other. 3. At this act, there was a general burst of indignation among the colonists, and forthwith they, with one voice, de- termined that the hour for action had come. They were willing to be taxed by their own legislatures whenever the state required it ; but, as we have said before, they were un- willing to have their money forced away from them, espe- cially to see it lavished on wicked and tyrannical court favorites — the open enemies of America. Patrick Henry, a bold orator, delivered a celebrated speech before the Yirginia Assembly, which animated the oppressed people. Everybody talked of Patrick Henry's speech ;* but many who were afterwards good patriots, still loved the mother- land too much to agree immediately with the sentiments in his bold speech. 4. At last the different colonies, one after the other, de- termined to unite themselves in a kind of Congress, that they might together talk over their troubles, and consult about sending a petition to the king imploring relief. The legis- lature of Massachusetts, after resolving in favor of a Conti- Was the stamped paper high-priced ] 3. How did the colonists like the stamp act 1 Were they willing to be taxed for good purposes ? What is said of Patrick Henry 1 4. At last what did the diiferent colonies determine to do ? What did the legislature of Massachusetts do 1 * See Guernsey's School History. — Page 195. THESTAMPACT. T9 nental Congress, appointed a day for its meeting, and sent letters to the speakers of the other assemblies, inviting them all to join. 5. They were very happy to accept the invitation, and at the appointed day, which was the first Monday in October, 1765, the First Colonial Congress assembled at New York. A grand moral spectacle was there presented to the world. For fourteen days they consulted together, and what they did, will be the admiration of every true American to the latest generation. If any of my young friends wish to know what business they transacted, they may ask their teachers to be kind enough to let them read the Declaration of Eights, the Petition to the King, and the Memorial to hoth Houses of Parliament. 6. A cargo of stamps and stamped paper arrived during the summer, and in Boston, New York, and Philadelphia, great tumults were excited. All the merchants of the sea- port towns agreed not to import any goods from Great Britain as long as this odious stamp act should be in force. Neither would they use one sheet of the stamped paper, and for a time business was suspended. When the first of November came, which was the day for the stamp act to go into opera- tion, there were strange sights to be seen. It almost seemed 5, What is said of the first Continental Congress ? 6, What cargo arrived during the sunimer ? What did many of the merchants agree not to do ? Would they use the stamp paper ? What happened on the first of November ? 80 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. as if the nation had lost its best friend. Everybody was sad ; even the colors of the shipping at Boston were hoisted half-mast — the bells tolled — but few of the shops were open, and the people walked about with troubled looks. Y. At Portsmouth a coffin was made, and on the lid was inscribed Liberty, aged 145, while a mournful procession, with unbraced drums and minute guns, followed it to the grave. An orator delivered a short address, and suddenly the coffin was taken up, and on the lid, Lihertij Revived, was seen. Then the bells rung merrily, and joy lighted every countenance. In New York the people called the stamp act " England'' s folly and America's ruin'' 8. At last Great Britain saw by these mobs and tumults that it would be advisable to repeal the stamp act. Then there was great joy all over America, and also in England, among the friends of America. Business went on again as usual, and the voice of praise was heard from a grateful people. Public thanksgivings were held, and the people of Yirginia talked about erecting a statue to the king. If Eng- land had from this time treated the colonies with honesty and kindness, they would have remained loyal. 9. Great Britain persisted in declaring that parliament had 7, What did the people of Portsmouth do to show their dislike to the stamp act ? What did the people of New York call the stamp act ? 8, Were the people happy when Great Britain repealed the stamp act 1 How did they show their joy ? 9, What did Great Britain persist in declaring ? THESTAMPACT. 81 a right to tax the colonies in all cases whatsoever. This they in turn denied. 10. Another canse of alarm was an act called the Military Act^ which said that troops sent out from England should be furnished with certain provisions and lodging at the expense of the colonists. How do you think you would like it now to have a number of foreign soldiers, some of them very wicked and untidy men, living at your houses, and doing just as they chose with your father's property ? 11. Tlie stamp act was repealed in 1766, but in May, 1T6T, a duty was laid on glass, paper, painters' colors, and tea. Then followed another very oppressive act, establishing a Board of Trade in the colonies, under the legislation of par- liament. Then quickly followed another act, prohibiting the governor and assembly of New York from passing any legis- lative act for any purpose whatever, until they should furnish certain supplies to the English troops. 12. You will easily see what kind of spirit Great Britain exercised towards her colonies. She was jealous and very avaricious. She could not bear to see the Americans pros- pering, and tried to keep them poor by taxing articles which they used a great deal. What a mean spirit. I hope none of my little readers are of a jealous or avaricious disposition. 10. What was the Military Act? 11. On what articles was a duty laid in 1767 ? Did the English pass other unjust acts ? 12. How did the English feel towards her absent children % 4* 82 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES CHAPTEK XYl. NCE again the people of Massacliiisetts drew lip a loyal and humble petition to the king, bnt this too was treated with scorn. In May, the odious officers of Custom arrived, and soon after acts of violence increased, and the Governor of Boston advised General Gage to send for British soldiers to awe the people. Before long, the people ^f Boston saw with alarm seven hundred red-coats landing, with muskets charged, bayonets fixed, drums beating, and colors flying, just as if they were on the domain of an enemy. Tlie Bostonians re- fused to provide homes for the soldiers, who were, some of them, very ill-behaved, and they were obliged to erect tents on the common, and some were even lodged in good old Faneuil Hall and the State House. 2. This displeased the Bostouians very much to see two of their favorite public buildings used by such characters. 1. How did the king treat the next humble petition of the colonists? What alarmed the people of Boston ? Were the people willing to have the soldiers in their houses 1 Where did they lodge ? CAUSESOF THE REVOLUTION. 83 Scarcely a day passed without some act of violence. Even the Sabbath day was profaned. These wicked soldiers loved to provoke the '' Yankee rebels," and they chose this holy day for their vilest scenes. 3. In February, 1769, parliament, in an address to the king, requested that all criminals in America might be sent over to England for trial. This, even a child can understand, was very unjust. To carry an accused person away from his home to a distant land to be tried by a jury of strangers, subject to all the disadvantages that result from want of friends, want of witnesses, and want of money. Even some of the English oratore denounced this measure as " cruel to the Americans, and injurious to England." They declared that they must "either retrace their steps and conciliate the colonies by kindness, or bear the fearful responsibility of driving loyal subjects to open rebellion." 4. These obnoxious measures caused so much disturbance, that in 1770 a parliamentarj'' repeal took place, except three pence per pound on tea. ' This did not satisfy the Americans, for it was the same ^rincij^le still. If Great Britain had a right to tax one article, she had to tax a hundred. They 2. Did the British soldiers remember the Sabbath day 1 3. Do you think criminals in America were jnstly tried by the English? Did some of the great men in England say the king did wrong when he oppressed the Americans ? 4. What repeal took place in 1770? What article was still taxed ? Why were the Americans dissatisfied ? What did they say ? 84 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. unanimously opposed every attempt of Great Britain to force money from tliem. 5. l^ot only did our grandfathers oppose the tax on tea, but our grandmothers and great aunts, in a body, declared they " would not drink any foreign tea, hoping," as they said, " to frustrate a plan which tends to deprive the wJwle comomt- nity of all that is valuahle in life^ I^ow and then an old lady could be discovered sipping secretly the much-loved beverage, but all patriot women were ashamed to be caught in the act. 6. There was one man named Mr. Lillie of Boston, who cared more for gold than he did for liberty, and he offered tea for sale. A mob of men and boys collected before his door, and, by their conduct, so much exasperated one of Lillie's friends, that he discharged his musket into the crowd, and killed a boy named Snyder. His death created a great excitement, and he was everywhere called \k\Q first martyr to liberty. His body was borne to the grave by six of his play- fellows, accompanied by a procession of between four and five hundred school boys, and about fifteen hundred of the inhabitants. 7. This was in February ; and on the 5th of March, there was an afi'ray between some of the citizens of Boston and his majesty's soldiers. Several of the inhabitants w^ere killed, 5. Would our grandmothers and aunts drink taxed tea? 6. What is said of Mr. Lillie in Boston ? What sad accident happened 1 7. What happened the following March? CAUSES OF THE REVOLUTION. 85 and others wounded. At the burial of the killed, all the bells of Boston and the adjacent towns tolled a solemn knell. The deep tones found an echo in many hearts, aroused them to immediate action, and awakened the bitterest condemna- tion of the conduct of the British troops and the British ministry. 8. The May-poles of former times were christened " Liberty poles," and all over the land a voice of dissatisfaction was heard. Committees were appointed in the large cities, and in every village and hamlet, to send word to each other of every im- portant movement, so that the patriot hearts might beat with one throb all over the country. 9. During this year, a large quantity of tea was shipped to Charleston, Philadelphia, New York, and Boston. But the Americans had all determined, if possible, to prevent it being landed. The vessels which brought it to Philadelphia and Isew York, w^ere compelled to return with their whole cargo to England. The cargo shipped to Charleston was landed, but was never sold or used. At length, two ships arrived at Boston, heavily laden with tea. The governor refused to give the ships a permit to depart, and the people stoutly refused to have it landed. Day after day passed on, 8. What were the many poles called ? 9. How did the people of Charleston, New York, and Philadelphia, re- ceive the cargoes of teas sent to them 1 What happened in Boston when the ships of tea came near the porf? 86 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. until the 16th of December, when a party, disguised as Mo- hawk Indians, accompanied by a mob, shouting " To Griffin's wharf! Boston harbor a tea-pot to-night" — boarded the ships, broke open the hatches, hoisted the chests of tea out, broke them in pieces, and triumphantly emptied their contents into the dock. AVhat a strange tea-party ! 10. Imagine the scene. It was a moonlight night. Fif- teen or twenty busy forms, in Indian costume, headed this motley crew, and with them were about one hundred and forty, most of them with blackened faces, busily engaged. So busily did they work, that within three hours they emptied in the harbor tliree himdred and forty-tioo chests of tea. Then, calmly and quietly, they all marched through the town, and they said it was the stillest night that Boston had enjoyed for many months. 11. When the English were told of this bold act, they were struck with amazement. They were very angry at the Bostonians, asserting that Boston was the ringleader in every riot, and the centre of every tumult in the colonies, and forth- with they determined to punish them ; so they passed three odious bills, one of which was called the " Boston Port Bill^^ by which the port of Boston w^as closed, and its trade ruined. What happened on the I6th of December % 10. Describe the Boston tea-party. Was it a noisy tea-party ? 11. How did England like the behavior of the Bostonians? How did they punish the people of Boston ? CAUSES OF THE KEVOLUTION. 87 12. By order of a second bill, the charter of the colony was altered, so that the executive power was taken away from the people, and the nomination of all important offices vested in the crown. The third bill ordered that any person indicted for a capital offence, might be removed to another colony, or even to England, for trial. The vindictive spirit of Great Britain could no longer be doubted. The sad truth was now evident. She was no friend to her once loyal and devoted provinces, but a bitter and relentless foe. Property, liberty, and life, were wantonly subjected to the caprice of government, and the cherished right of trial by jury, so dear to Englishmen, was unfeelingly torn from them. 13. You have now been told a few of the causes which provoked your ancestors to rebel against the home govern- ment. We hope you have thoroughly learned the preceding pages, and that, through the kind instruction of your teach- ers, you are by this time able to answer a number of ques- tions about the causes of the Eevolutionary "War. We are soon to tell you of dreadful battles, and we have told you more of the causes leading to this long and bloody war be- cause we do not wish to have your young hearts become acquainted with such horrid tales of blood and murder, without first explaining to you why your ancestors were willing to suffer so much. It ivas for Freedom — for Liherty. 12. What other odious bills did they pass to punish the Bostonians? Did the Americans now believe the English were their friends "? 13. Why were your ancestors willing to fight such horrid battles ? 88 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. Ah, little do you know yet what liberty means. Had your ancestors been defeated in their struggle for liberty, a far different fate would have been yours now. CAUSES OF THE EEVOLUTION. 89 CHAPTEK XYII. ETITIONS from the American colonists to tlie King of England, were sent again and again, begging him to remove from them such oppressive laws and taxes. But to all their petitions he turned away with contempt, only to increase their burdens. 2. At last they publicly appealed to the King of kings — the Sovereign Kuler of the Universe. This good and gracious King is ever willing to listen tc the cry of the heavy laden and distressed. We believe God heard the prayers of the American people, gave them wisdom and bravery, and raised up friends to assist them in their arduous struggle for freedom. The first of June was observed as a day of fasting and prayer by the people of Virginia. They also jDroposed to call a Congress of Deputies from all the colonies, in order to form some plan of union in their present trying situation. 1. What did the colonists petition the king to do? What did he do? 2. To whom did they at length appeal? What day did the people of Virginia spend in fasting ? What did they propose to do ? 90 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 3. While the Yirginians were imploring help from God, the port of Boston was closed, so that no vessel could enter, and in a few days after, no vessel was allowed to depart. Tlie streets of Boston were thronged with " red coats^^ as the British soldiers were called, and many more red coats soon arrived from Halifax, Quebec, New York, and Ireland. 4. General Gage feared the " Rehels^^ as the colonists were termed, would soon resort to arms. Under pretext of pre- venting his men from running away. General Gage placed a strong guard on the neck of land which connects Boston with the main land. 5. On the 5th of September, the General Congress met at Philadelphia, and fifty-five delegates from twelve colonies were appointed. This body of men were remarkable for great intellect, sound judgment, and pure patriotism. They published a declaration of their rights, formed an association not to use or purchase British goods, sent a petition to the king, and an address to the people of England, and one to the Canadians, and one to the colonies. 6. Great excitement prevailed throughout the states. Mills 3. What is said of Boston 1 4. What did General Gage fear ? Under what pretext did he place a guard between Boston and the main land? 5. Where and when did the General Congress meet? How many delegates from how many colonies were appointed ? What did this body publish ? CAUSES OF THE REVOLUTION. 91 were erected for making gunpowder, and manufactories set up for making all kinds of arms. Concord, eighteen miles from Boston, had been named as a depot to receive arms and ammunition. Twelve thousand men were formed into military companies as Minute men, who were to be ready to march against the enemy at a minute's warning. 7. While these alarming scenes were occurring in America, Doctor Franklin, and the other colonial agents in England, were doing much in favor of the cause of their oppressed countrymen. The last petition to the king was treated with the same ill feeling as others had been, and the last faint hope of recon- ciliation faded forever away. The contest was now hurrying on. The Americans were now to battle with the armies and fleets of haughty England. They were confident that their cause was just, and that, even though poor and ignorant of the science of war, they were supported from above. " Thrice armed is he who has his quarrel just." 6. What mills were erected throughout the states 1 What place was a depot to receive arms, &c. 1 How many men were formed into companies as Minute men 1 7. What was Franklin doing at this time 1 How was the last petition treated ? Was there any longer hope 1 92 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. CHAPTER XYIII. ISr Massacliusetts tlie people were told that the king called them Rebels^ and that he intended to punish them severely for the bold stand they had taken. Some few of the timid ones, who loved the king and his cruel government still, were called Tories^ and all those who rebelled were called Wliigs. 2. The Bostonians were very closely watched by the Tories and the Governor, and they had to resort to laughable ways to send arms to the country people, who needed them. Sometimes they piled cannon balls and mus- kets in a farm-wagon, and covered them with manure. The bold market women would often secrete powder in their baskets, and many a candle-box full of cartridges was carried through the English posts. 3. At last General Gage found out that there was a depot for ammunition at Concord. He detached some wild-looking soldiers, called grenadiers, and some light infantry, under the 1. What were those called who adhered to the king ? Those who re- belled % 2. How did the Bostonians sometimes send arms to the country people? 3. What did General Gage ascertain % What did he do ? CAUSES OF THE EEVOLUTION. 93 command of Lieut. Colonel Smith and Major Pitcairn, to go to Concord and destroy the depot. It is said they were told to seize two great patriots, Samuel Adams and John Hancock. The Bostonians loved these good men and sent them timely warning, and they escaped. Orders were also sent to dis- tribute the ammunition and arms before the grenadiers arrived. Messengers secretly left Boston for Concord, and succeeded in reaching Lexington, (six miles from Concord) a town on the road, wdiere they aroused the people. Bella were rung, and cannons were fired to alarm the adjacent country, and soon troops of Minute men came flocking in, and at sunrise on the morning of the 19tli of April, about seventy had assembled near the village church. That morn- ing sun rose upon the opening scene in the drama of the Revolution. Scarcely had its golden beams illuminated half of the village church, when a body of soldiers came march- ing proudly before the provincials. Major Pitcairn exclaimed, in an imperious voice, " JDis^erse^ you Rebels ! Throw down your arms and disperse /" They did not obey. Then, springing forward, he dis- charged a pistol, and brandishing a glittering sword, ordered his soldiers to fire. The soldiers with loud huzzas ran up, and some muskets were fired, which killed and wounded several. 4. The small number of provincials would not allow of Who were they told to seize ? Who sent them warning ? What place did the messengers reach ? W^hat did he then do ? What followed % 94 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. any opposition, and they were obliged to disperse. The British now renewed their march to Concord, where they destroyed the stores ; but they were harassed by the Ameri- cans, who fired npon them from houses and fences in every direction. Finding themselves in a dangerous situation, the British thought best to begin to retreat. At Lexington they found a body of brave provincials in arms to receive them. If General Gage had not at this time sent them more troops, the Americans would have destroyed them entirely. 5. This is the first battle of the Eevolution. Here was the first blood shed by our ancestors in their struggle for liberty. On the 19th of April, 1775, sixty-five British sol- diers, and fifty Americans, were stretched out cold in death under the green trees, and along the road-side, while in dif- ferent directions the wounded were writhing in pain. One hundred and eighty English soldiers were wounded, and thirty-eight Americans. 4. What did the British do when they reached Concord'? What did the Americans do 1 Who did the British find at Lexington 1 5. Where was the first battle of the Revolution 1 How many were killed and wounded? CAUSES OF THE REVOLUTION 95 CHAPTEE XIX EPOPvTS of the battle of Lexington flew like wild-fire all over the country. From every direction volunteers were seen, who express- ed their determination to fight valiantly for their country. The Provincial Congress was in session at the time of this battle, at Watertown, about ten miles from Boston. As soon as the fearful story was told them, they voted that an army of 13,600 men should be raised in the province, and they chose General Ward to be their commander. They invited the other 'Ne\Y England colonies to furnish each a number of soldiers, so that an army of 30,000 men in all might be raised. The command of this army was to be given to Gen. Thomas. 2. Tlie people of New Jersey, on hearing the news of the battle of Lexington, took possession of the provincial trea- sure. In Maryland and South Carolina, the people seized all 1. What did the Provincial Congress do when they heard of the battle of Lexington 1 Who" did they choose as commander 1 What did they in- vite other New England provinces to do "? Who was appointed commander of the army 1 2. What did the people of New Jersey do when they heard of the battle ? What did Maryland and South Carolina do ? 96 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. tlie ammunition and military stores, and placed them in the hands of soldiers in pay of the province. Yarions expe- ditions for seizing arms and ammunition were planned. Ticonderoga on Lake Champlain, and Crown Point, were surprised and taken by a very brave officer, of whom you will learn more. His name was Colonel Ethan Allen. As brave and wise as Colonel Allen was, he was willing to receive assistance from a boy.'^ He was not like General Braddock. It was nearly midnight when they arrived on the lake op- posite Ticonderoga. After consulting a while as to what route to pursue, they found a boy who was willing to be their guide to the fort. This brave fellow marched proudly at their head, and at the dawn of day, Allen and only eighty-three men entered the covered way of the fort. The sleeping garrison were aroused by a tremendous shout, and, supposing a great number of invaders at their door, they were glad to surrender. 3. In May re-inforcements arrived from England, with three celebrated British generals, Howe, Burgoyne, and Clinton. General Gage issued a proclamation, ofiering to the people the alternative of submission, or war, and extended Who planned the taking of Ticonderoga and Crown Point 1 What is said of the boy who acted as guide ? 3. When did the English receive re-inforcements from England 1 Under whose command ? What proclamation did General Gage issue ? * The boy's name -was Nathan Beman. He died in Franklin County, Wew York, at the age of ninety years. He lived to see the union increase from 13 to 30 states, and from three millions of people to twenty millions. — Losdng. THEREVOLUTION. 97 pardon to all who would laj down their arms. From this offer, Samuel Adams and John Hancock were excepted. 4. Intelligence was received of the intention of General Gage to post a part of his troops within a few days on a promontory, just at the entrance of the peninsula at Charles- town, called Bunker's Hill. It was deemed important that our troops should possess themselves of this eminence before the enemy could occupy it. 5. Accordingly, orders were given to Colonel Prescott, a veteran of the last war, with 1,000 men, to march silently on the evening of the 16th of June, and throw up entrench- ments on the heights. By some mistake, the fortification was erected on Breed's Hill, high and large like the other, but, being nearer Boston, was less capable of being defended. With so much diligence and silence was the work carried on, that between midnight and the dawn of day, a great work was accomplished. This was intended to shield them from the fire of the enemy. Although the British vessels were lying very near, the troops on board of them had no intima- tion of the work until the rising sun beamed upon the newly erected fort. 6. They immediately commenced a tremendous cannonade. Bombs and shot were incessantly rolling among the hard- Who were excepted ? 4. Why did our troops take possession of Bunker Hill ? 5. What orders were given Colonel Prescott 1 What mistake was made ? What was done before the next morning 1 6. What did the English do ? 5 98 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. working provincials. On tliey toiled, not heeding the firing, ■ — unassisted by others, and not refreshed with provisions previous to the battle. About noon the red coats were seen in great commotion, crossing the river from Boston to Charles- town. About three thousand, under the command of Gen. Howe and Pigot, landed at Morton's Point, determined to drive the Americans from the hill. The officers harangued their men in the following language : " Those cowardly rebels must and shall be put to flight. See the dastardly Yankees, with rusty guns, and scarcely a bayonet among them. March on, my lads ; march on, and show them you are Britons ! — show them these dazzling arms, and bayonets bright and sharp, and you shall soon see them take to their heels and run !" 7. Hear the words of the brave Putnam, Prescott, and Warren : " See, my brave soldiers, the cruel enemies to your freedom apjDroaching ! They have come to enslave you. Remember the barbarous m^urders of our dearest friends at Lexington! Fight manfully, and our foes shall be van- quished. Keserve your fire till their near approach — then take aim !" On came the red coats. Firmly and silently the Americans stood, until the enemy were within eight or ten rods. Then, by a general discharge of musketry and field artillery, several officers and men are seen to fall. Oh, Who commanded the English ? What did they say to their men ? 7. What did the American officers say to their men ? How near did the Americans let the English approach before they fired "^ THE REVOLUTION. my young readers, it pains us to tell you of these bloody scenes. It pains us to make the young heart familiar with these awful scenes of butchery ; but if you learn history, you must necessarily be told of war. The history of the world shows us that our wicked earth has always been trodden by the feet of armies. 8. A second time the red coats came forward to the attack, and again a deadly lire from the Americans put them to flight, leaving such numbers of dead and wounded that several of their officers exclaimed, " It is downright butchery to lead the men on afresh against the lines." At this critical moment, a re-inforcement of British, under General Clinton, arrived, and one redoubt was attacked on three sides at one time. Want of ammunition finally com- pelled the Americans to retreat, although they had suffered little loss in comparison with the British. But one beloved officer fell, whose death caused many a cheek to turn pale, and added a pang to many a sad heart. During the retreat, the brave General Warren was killed. He was endeavoring to encourage his tired troops, who were hotly pursued, when an English officer, who knew him, borrowed a musket from one of his soldiers and shot him dead. He fell on or near the spot where now stands Bunker Hill Monument.* What was the result ? 8. At the second attack what took place ? Who arrived at this moment with re-inforcements 1 Why were the Americans at length compelled to fly 1 * A granite monunaent, 220 feet high, has been erected to commemorate this battle. 100 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 9. The loss of the British, according to General Gage, was one thousand and fifty-four. The Provincials had one hun- dred and thirty-nine killed, and two hundred and seventy- eight wounded. But we have not 3^et told you half of the horrors of this bloody battle. In the beginning of the con- test, General Howe ordered the handsome town of Charles- town to be set on fire, that the smoke might conceal their manoeuvres. The flames spread with fearful rapidity. Soon they were seen issuing from the lofty spire of their sacred temple. What a scene ! The roaring of cannon, sheets of tire from the musketry, the smoke from the conflagration, the embattled field, and the awful slaughter, all combined to make this spectacle awfully sublime. Think, too, of the feelings of the agonized spectators, posted on tops of houses and steeples in Boston, and on all the surrounding hills, hun- dreds of whom were wrestling in prayer for the safety of a beloved husband or brother. Who would not pray to God to deliver our nation from the horrors of war ? 9 What handsome town was destroyed by the British 1 THE EEVOLUTION. 101 CHAPTEK XX. i UNE 17th the battle of Bunlcer Hill was fought. Two days before, the American 1^ Congress appointed George Washington Commander-in-Chief of all the American forces. In July, he arrived at Cambridge near Boston, where the troops were stationed, and took command of the army, which consisted of fourteen thousand men. These poor men were, most of them, ignorant of the science of war, and were destitute of everything necessary for the trying time they were approaching. All the powder in the camp amounted only to nine rounds a man. But Pro- vidence so ordered events that often store-ships were captured, by which the Americans obtained a supply of powder, and many necessary articles. 2. In the autumn of 1YY5, Congress sent an army to invade Canada, which was a province of Great Britain. The com- 1. When was the battle of Bunker Hill fought ? What good man was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the American forces ? In what situation did he find the American army ? How did they sometimes get a supply of powder ? 2. Where did Congress send an army in the autumn of 1775 ? 102 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. mand of this expedition was given to Generals Schuyler and Montgomery. General Schnyler was taken very sick, and the whole command rested on young General Montgomery. Although he was young, he was skilful and very courageous. He was greatly assisted by brave men, among whom was the intrepid Colonel Arnold. We have not space to tell you much of this dangerous expedition. Our army suffered dread- fully. The climate of Canada in December is very severe. While they were besieging Quebec, they were exposed to a violent snow storm. In the midst of the battle, General Montgomery was slain, and Arnold was wounded in the leg. Bravely the men stood their ground, until they were com- pelled to surrender prisoners of war. The body of General Montgomery was found in the snow the day after the battle, and buried by order of General Carleton, the British commander.* The Americans were finally compelled to leave Canada. It seemed a very sad time to them, but afterwards they had cause to rejoice that they had not been victorious, because they had not a sufficient force to protect so large a country. 3. While hostilities were going on in Canada, the colonies were in great commotion. I^orfolk, in Yirginia, was burnt What is said of General Montgomery 1 What happened to the American troops in Canada 1 Were the Americans compelled to leave Canada 1 * The American Congress, in 1818, ordered hia remains to be removed to the city of New York. You may see his monument under the portico of St. Paul's church. THE REVOLUTION. 103 by order of the royal governor, Lord Dunmore. This act was so atrocious that at last he had to flee. The British governors of North and South Carolina, and governor Tryon of New York, were also obliged to take refuge on board English ships of war. By degrees, British authority ceased throughout the union. 4. The colonies joined themselves in a confederation under the name of the Thirteen United Colonies of North America. They issued paper money, called Bills of Credit^ to the amount of six millions of Spanish dollars — published a de- claration of the causes which led to the war — sent another petition to the king — established a post-office — and assumed all the duties of an independent government. 5. We have all heard of the Hessian soldiers who came over here during the Revolution. Perhaps you do not know how or why they came. They came from the states of Ger- many, and were hired by the British of the German princes. The English were obliged to pay a very great price for these hired troops. It was bad enough for the English to come over here and slaughter their own brethren, but to hire 16.000 3. What happened to the American colonies while these things were going on in Canada ? What is said of British authority throughout the union ? 4. By what name did the colonies call themselves "? When they had no gold and silver money ; what kind of money did they issue ? What did they publish ? 5. What foreign soldiers did the English hire to come over to America and fiffht the Americans 1 104 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. foreign troops — to purchase assassins to aid them in their cruel acts — will ever remain a foul stain on the honor of Great Britain. 6. Measures were now taken to annoy the British in Boston. Batteries were erected on several hills, from which shot and bombs were thrown into the tow^n. The battery w^hich was opened at Dorchester Point, soon obliged General Howe to evacuate the town. On seeing the fortifications which the Americans had secretly erected, General Howe was heard to say, " I know not what I shall do ; the rebels have done more in one night than my whole army have done in weeks." Y. It was a joyful day for Boston when the British left. Six- teen months had the people endured insults from the soldiers, hunger, cold, and almost every privation. In some instances, the pews and benches of churches were taken for fire-wood. The North church was entirely demolished, and whole houses were consumed. Thus even the houses dedicated to the worship of God were profaned by the subjects of the king. 8. It was the ITth of March, 17Y6, when Lord Howe em- barked with his troops, and a great many tory families, for Halifax, and General Washington entered the town in triumph. Already the oppressed people gathered around Washington and hailed him as their deliverer. 6. Were the Bostonians glad the British were gone 1 7. Why Avas General Howe and the British troops obliged to leave Boston 1 What did General Howe say when he saw how industriously the rebels had worked 1 8. Who went home with General Howe to England 1 HE Americans, until this time, had not been disputing for independ- ence. They did not wish to be free from the just government of Great Britain, but they wished constitutional liberty. They w^ish- ed to be represented in the Eng- lish Parliament, and other just rights of w^hich you have been told. At last they found that nothing but independence would do. All over the land was heard the shout, " Independence forever fi'om the yohe of a tyrant .^" 1. For what were the Americans disputing ? What did they at last find out ? What shout was heard all over the land ? 5* 106 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 2. The wise men of the nation assembled in the American Congress. It was on the Yth of the pleasant month of June, when Kichard Henry Lee made a motion for declaring the colonies ^^free and indei^endentr A committee of five was appointed to prepare a Declaration of Independence. It was a solemn time for the colonies. They were about to cast off their allegiance to the mother-land. They felt sad, for they could still say " England, with all thy faults, I love thee still." This declaration of independence would be treason against the home government, and those who signed it would be liable to death by hanging. If they failed in gaining a vic- tory over England, a dreadful fate would befal their posterity. In this trying time, they appealed to God, and on His arm they rested for support. 3. On the fourth of July, 17T6, Congress published their Declo/ratia/n of Independence. A mighty empire was sepa- rated — a new nation was born — and from that time assumed a rank among the families of the earth. The words colony and province were changed to " Btater Instead of the united colonies, they were called the United States. The next year, 2. What motion was made in the American Congress on the 7th of June ? For what was a committee of five appointed ? Why did they feel very sad 1 To what were the signers of the declaration of Independence liable ? 3. When was the Declaration of Independence published ? What were the united colonies now called 1 THE EEVOLUTION. 107 the red ground of the American flag was altered to thirteen blue and white stripes, as an emblem of the thirteen states united in a war for liberty. 4. There were fifty-six signers to the celebrated Declaration of Independence. All of the names are signed with a firm hand, except one. This is good old Stephen Hopkins, who was afflicted with palsy. You know now why the Americans are so jolly on Inde- pendence Day. 'No wonder it is celebrated all over the states. It is much better for any people to be free than to be governed by a tyrant and his wicked ministers. The Declaration was printed, and thousands of copies scat- tered abroad. It was greeted everywhere with joy. Bells were rung, cannons were fired, and even the little girls and boj^s jumped for joy. 5. In New York there was a leaden statue of King George III., standing in the Bowling Green. It was a fierce-looking figure. On its head was a crown ; in one hand he held a sceptre. As soon as the news of the declaration reached that city, a great mob proceeded to the statue, crying, " Down with it, down with it !" In a few minutes poor leaden King George was seen on his face on the ground ; and in a few minutes more he was chopped up to be made into musket balls. How was the flag altered ? 4. What is said of the signers of the Declaration of Independence? What is the fourth of July still called 1 5. What happened to the leaden statue of King George ? „ — „ — . ^ , , , . -.„„^^ — -..-^ — ^ n 108 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 6. Although the Americans had declared themselves free, the people of Great Britain would not give them up, and they sent over thousands of trooj^s to conquer the rebels. A long and bloody war ensued, of which we will only tell you a little, until you grow older. As we have said before, it is very painful for us to talk to young children of such horrid scenes. It is because the people of this world are wicked that war exists. In heaven there is no fighting, because there is no sin there. 6. What did Great Britain do when they heard the.. Americans had declared themselves free and independent ? THE REVOLUTION. 109 CHAPTEE II. ]Sr the 28th of July, Sir Peter Parker, with a naval force, attacked a fort on Sullivan's Island, which is on the coast of Carolina, designing to reduce Charleston. They were repulsed with great loss, and the expedition failed. General Howe, with his Boston army, left Halifax in June and anchored off Sandy Hook, to wait for the troops of Clinton and Parker from the south, and for the re-inforcements from Europe. Their united number would amount to about thirty-five thousand men. The British designed to seize New York, keep possession of the Hudson river, and separate the Eastern from the Middle States. 2. The American army consisted of about 27,000 men, but a great many hundred of these were invalids or unprovided with arms. They had erected fortifications at Brooklyn, and on the heights which command the harbor of 'New York. 1. What is said of Sir Peter Parker's expedition? How large was the British army in America 1 2. Plow large was the American army 1 110 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. G-eneral Howe sent letters to Wasliington, "offering par- dons to such as deserved mercy." These letters were super- scribed " To George Washington, Esgy Any school-boy, now-a-days, would know this was improjDer. Washington refused to receive them, because they were not directed to him as Commander. As a private individual, he would hold no intercourse with the enemies of his country. A second letter was sent by General Howe, directed to " George Wash- ington, (&G., (&G., c§6\" This was also refused. Finding that the Americans wished no royal pardons. General Howe resolved to commence operations. 3. On the 26th of August, General Heister took his post at Flatbush with a body of Hessians, and the Americans were alarmed to find an immense body of troops advancing. They had landed near the village of Gravesend. They divided in three columns, and commenced their march towards the American camp at Brooklyn, then under the command of Generals Putnam., Sullivan, and Sterling. The battle began at daybreak on the 2Tth. It was long and bloody. It was a sad. ^day for the Americans. They lost nearly twelve hun- dred men. The British lost four hundred. 4. During the action. General Washington passed over from New York. He was moved to tears when he saw the What is said of Gen. Howe's letters to General Washington 1 3. Where did General Heister take his post on the 26th of August ? Where were the American troops stationed ? Under what Generals were they? What is said of tlie battle ? 4. How did Washington feel when he saw his best troops slaughtered '^ THE KE VOLUTION. Ill slaughter of his best troops. He could not send others to their relief without exposing the camj) to great danger. A heavy rain the next day kept the enemy in their tents. Washington felt that something must be done or they would all be destroyed. They must retreat to 'New York. How to do this he did not know, as the British were so near. How- ever, he had asked direction of God, and he went onward in his perilous undertaking, l^ever was any enterprise more skilfully conducted, or more highly favored by Providence. All the field-baggage and artillery of nine thousand men, were conveyed to New York, and the enemy knew nothing of it. They were only a few yards off, so that the sound of the pick-axes might be heard. As the day began to dawn, a thick fog enveloped the whole of Long Island in obscurity, while on the side of the enemy at New York, the atmosphere was perfectly clear. The wind, too, w^hich had been against them, suddenly changed to their favor, and the whole army and baggage were taken over in safety. The mist cleared away, and displayed to the astonished eyes of the enemy that not an American was to be found in Brooklyn. 5. So intense had been the anxiety of Washington, that for Describe the retreat of the Americans to New York. Did the British know they were crossing the river so near to their army 1 How were the Americans hidden from them 1 What else was in their favor 1 Do you not suppose God heard the prayers of Washington and his dis- tressed vsoldiers 1 112 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. forty-eight iiours he did not close his eyes, and rarely dis- mounted from his horse. To hazard another engagement would be unsafe, so the Americans took a position on the north end of the island. The army was reduced to three thousand men. The British pursued the Americans. A severe action took place at White Plains on the 28th of October, in which several hundred fell, and General Washington retired farther up the country. The British now held possession of the city of New York, Long Island, and Staten Island. 6. Washington was obliged to retreat into New Jerse}^, first to Newark, then Brunswick, Trenton, and Princeton. All this while the British, under Cornwallis, were close behind. This was a dark time for the Americans. Our army suf- fered the greatest hardships. The soldiers had very little food, and that little was very poor. Many of them were without blankets and shoes, and the ground was often stained with their blood. So dark was the prospect, that many were induced to accept of pardon on the terms of Lord Howe. The last day of the year was near at hand when the term of service of 5. Was Washington very anxious all this time 1 Was it safe to remain near the British and engage in another battle ? Did the British pursue them 1 Where did they have another battle 1 What is said of the battle of White Plains 1 What places did the British now possess 1 6. To v^'hat places did Washington retreat 1 Describe the situation of the poor Americans ? THE REVOLUTION. 113 many of the old troops would expire, and the hearts of the stern old patriots ached as they looked on the half-starved, naked, and dispirited soldiers. About this time, Rhode Island fell into the hands of the British. 7. We have said it was now a dark time for the American patriots. But they did not give up in despair. They ap- pointed a day of fasting and prayer, and good people all over the land cried to God to deliver them from the power of the oppressors. They also endeavored to obtain assistance from France. The French and English people were not on very good terms at that time. JSTeither did Spain and Hol- land think much of England. They preferred to see the Americans victorious over their proud and haughty rival. Doctor Franklin, Silas Deane, and Arthur Lee, were sent across the ocean to see what assistance they could obtain from foreign powers. 8. It was now mid-winter ; but Washington did not stop for that. He saw that no time was to be lost. On Christmas night a very bold enterprise was undertaken. It was very cold, and the snow was falling fast. The Delaware river was filled with floating masses of ice. Washington, with a few chosen men, crossed this stormy water, and surprised the enemy at Trenton. They attempted to escajDC, but could not. 7. What did the Americans do to get assistance in their destitute state ? Did the people of France and Holland like the English 1 Why was Dr. Franklin sent to England ? 8. What bold enterprise did Gen. Washington undertake on Christmas night ? What success had he 1 114 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. One thousand men were taken prisoners, and the spoils con- sisted of six brass field-pieces, a thousand stand of arms, and some ammunition. Historians all say this was a great achieve- ment. Kothing seemed more improbable to the enemy, as their general had boasted he could keep the peace of 'New Jersey with a corporal's guard. » 9. As the British were very near, and with superior num- bers, to the American army. General Washington deemed it prudent to re-cross into Pennsylvania with his prisoners. These being secured, he returned to Trenton. He had only five thousand soldiers able to act. Cornwallis was close at hand at Princeton, with a large army. Washington's situa- tion was very perilous. He looked at the Delaware river, full of floating ice on one side, and the mustering forces of red coats, and felt that it would be destruction to his noble soldiers to risk an engagement. What could he do ? It was a dark night. The enemy were then asleep, but by the next sunrise, they would be in preparation for a general attack. 10. Behold what strange orders Washington gives ! He tells the baggage-men to get it all together and move ofif very silently. He tells a few guard-men to remain and kindle large fires through the night, to make the British believe they were all still on the grounds. He told some others to work with pick-axes for the same purpose. He then marched by a circuitous route to Princeto7i. 9. Did he dare to remain so near the British ? 10. What strange orders did Washington give 1 THE REVOLUTION. 115 11. It was a very foggy morning. Wlien they were near Princeton, tliey met a party of British soldiers. A battle ensued. At one time it seemed as if the Americans must give up. Washington shouted to his men to stand fast ; then, snatching a flag from a standard-bearer, he took a bold station between the two armies — only thirty yards from each ; and wherever the shot fell most thickly, there Washington was seen. He remained unhurt. The field was won ; but it was dearly bought. Beside Washington lay his bosom-friend, the gallant General Mercer, who fell in the action. The frost- covered ground was sprinkled with the dead bodies of many brave soldiers that day. The British at Trenton were greatly surprised when they found the Americans had left during the night. When they heard the firing at Trenton, although it was in the depth ol winter, they took it to be thunder. 12. The Americans were so much exhausted by the labors of the last few days, that some of them actually fell down through the influence of sleep. Many of them were almost naked, and endured constantly the torments of hunger, while the enemy had everything in abundance. The proud enemy, who but a few weeks before chased the ragged, starving rebels before them, from post to post, now held but a small part of New Jersey. 11. What happened at Princeton 1 What is said of Washington ? What brave general was killed 1 What is said of the surprise of the British ] 12. Were the Americans greatly exhausted ? 116 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. 13. The Hessians and British had committed such outrages on the people of New Jersey, as even a savage would be ashamed to confess. Poor and infirm old men were perse- cuted, defenceless women, and dear innocent little children, Tvere treated w^ith horrid barbarity. This has been called '' The time that tried men^s souls.'''' As long as American history is studied, it will be a memorial of the bravery and patriotism of the American people, and also of the protecting hand of Providence. If God had not been with them, the Americans could never have gained the victory. We trust this now prosperous people will not be so un- grateful as to ^vander away from God who has so richly blessed them. 13. How had the Hessians and British behaved in New Jersey % What has this time been called 1 Of what is it a memorial ? '""^m^^^^^^^m THE EEVOLUTION. 117 CHAPTEK III. FTEK the battles of Trenton and Princeton, General Washington chose Morristown in New Jersey for his winter-quarters. As his men were in danger of small pox, he had most of his troops inoculated. 2. In May, both armies prepared for the continuance of the contest. General Howe was on his way to oc- Tj cupy Philadelphia, and Washington determined to prevent it if possible. On the 11th of September, the battle of Brandywine was fought. Here the Americans were defeated, with the loss of 1,000 men in killed, wounded, and prisoners. Among the wounded was the brave young Marquis de Lafayette, who had just before entered the army as a volunteer. The Americans were defeated in another engagement, in which they lost 1,200 men. This was fought at Germanton^n. 3. While these reverses were taking place at the South, great victories were achieved at the North. Several battles and important events occurred, but we will only mention the 1. Where did Washington go during the winter % 2. What did General Howe wish to do in May ? What happened at Brandywine ? What happened at Germantown % 3. What happened during this time at the North % 118 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. one of most interest. Early in the spring, some British troops, commanded by a very proud general called Burgoyne, endeavored to invade the states through Canada. At first, it seemed as if they were going to be victorious, but at last General Burgoyne was in a sad predicament. He was con- fined in a narrow pass near Saratoga in ISTew York State. On one side was the Hudson, on the other a very dark, im- passable woods, a body of Americans in the rear, and 13,000 in front. General Gates commanded the American troops. General Burgoyne watched day after day for help. Every plan he could devise to retreat was tried. In vain were all his efiforts. His provisions were exhausted, his troops worn down with toil, and, for fear of a worse fate, the haughty general resolved to capitulate. By this we mean — he had to give up his whole army of 5,752 men, and everything belonging to them. It was very mortifying to the British. Among the captive officers were six members of the British parliament. Although the Americans were full of joy at this wonder- ful victory, they did not forget in their rejoicings to treat their captive foe with kindness. This was showing a Chris- tian feeling. Christ, our great pattern, was merciful to his bitterest foes. 4. During the year 1777, several noble-hearted foreigners joined the American cause. We would have the posterity Describe General Burgoyne's situation. What was the proud General at last obliged to do 1 How did the victorious Americans treat their captives? THE REVOLUTION. 119 of the patriots of the revolution ever remembered among the noblest of our friends, the names of Lafayette^ Pulaski^ and Kosciusko. These brave men espoused our cause from a love for liberty. We cannot refrain from a particular notice of Lafayette. After hearing of the defeats of our army on Long Island, and the loss of one post after another, he deter- mined to espouse our despised and rejected cause. The king ordered him to stay at home. But he could not — he would not obey. After being thwarted in his plans many times, he at last fitted out a vessel at his own expense. He procured a quantity of military stores, and, parting with a young and much-loved wife, and all the fascinating scenes of a brilliant court, he hastened to America ! He hastened to espouse our almost hopeless cause. He came not for gold, for he asked no pay. He came unsolicited, and in defiance of the wishes of all his friends. " Tlie moment," said the noble stranger, "I heard the name of America, I began to love her ; from the moment I understood that she was struffo^linoj for her liberties, I burned to shed my best blood in her glorious cause ; and the days I shall devote to the service of America, wherever and whenever it may be, will constitute the hap- piest of my life." 5. Lafayette showed he was sincere in this expression of his feelings. With a magnanimity seldom found, he, the idol of his circle, came to us in our darkest hour. He lavished 4. What noble foreigners joined the American army ? What is said of Lafayette ? Can you repeat what Lafayette said about America ? 5. Did he share the privations of our people ? 120 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATE Lafayette offerinj; his sword to the Continental Congress. his princely fortune on our naked, half-starved soldiers ; through the snow and sleet and rigors of mid-winter, he shared the log-hut or the blanket with our troops ; or, after a weary day on a battle-field, beneath a scorching sun, we find him locked to sleep close beside the beating heart of Wash- ington, and sharing with him his mantle, and, at the age of twenty, shedding his blood on the altar of Liberty. But we stop. Why rehearse what Lafayette did for this country, w^hen his memory is fresh in every heart ? To this day tears of gratitude moisten the face of every true-hearted American, at the remembrance of Lafayette's generous deeds, and very little children soon learn to lisp sweetly the name of La- fayette^ the '^jpeople^s friendP Long live the memory of Lafayette, the people's friend — the friend of Liberty — let the shout never cease while the American Republic exists. THE REVOLUTION, 121 CHAPTEE lY, HE commencement of the year 1Y78, was distinguished by a treaty of alliance be- tween France and America. This was a joyful event, because the Americans ob- tained a powerful ally or friend to help them in their time of need. Early in the spring, the Court of France sent out Count de Estaing with a fleet of fifteen sail of the line, to assist the Americans. Washington ordered that a day of thanksgiving and prayer should be observed, because God had moved the hearts of the French people to acknowledge the Americans as friends, and had made them willing to favor their struggle for liberty. Shouts of joy arose from the log-huts of Yalley Forge, where our army had been encamped during the winter. For a while the poor soldiers forgot their sufferings in the universal joy. " Long live the King of France r they cried. The artillery fired thirteen rounds, followed by a general running fire of the musketry. Then arose another glad shout: ''Huzza! Long live the friendly European Powers /" And yet another 1. Why were the Americans joyful because of the treaty of alliance made between France and America 1 What did Washington order ? 6 122 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. sliout, ^^ Huzza for the American States T followed by the artillery and running fire. 2. At last a fourth shout of joy rung, echoed and re-echoed from every side, '•''Long live General Washington P'' Even the sick soldiers joined in this cry. During the cold winter. General Washington had proved himself the firm friend of the suffering soldiers. One-half of the men were destitute of clothes, shoes, and stockings : some thousands were without blankets, and were obliged to warm themselves over fires all night. What a hard lot ! After a toilsome day's work, to have not even a blanket to shield them from the cold ground at night ! Several times during the winter, they had been threatened with famine ; often for four or five days they were without bread, and a whole week without beef or por^. Washington did all in his power to alleviate their sufferings. In the midst of all this gloom, there were some persons mean- souled enough to be jealous of the praise which Washington received. They were jealous of the power which Washing- ton had. What a mean spirit it shows to be unhappy at the success or goodness of another ! Washington taught men and women and even little children a lesson by his conduct. He was persecuted, and he only returned good again. He was reviled, and he was calm and patient under the most cutting calumnies. Who would not imitate the great and 2. From what did our troops suffer ? Was Washington mindful of their sufferings'? Had even the great and good Washington enemies'? How did he treat his enemies 1 THE REVOLUTION. 123 good Washington? What a noble example the American people have before them ! 3. The British had gained possession of Philadelphia, and had chosen that city and vicinity for their winter quarters. Here they abandoned themselves to pleasures of the lowest kind, and many of them committed acts of which I would tremble to tell you. At last the time for commencing opera- tions arrived, and the British left Philadelphia in June, in- tending to go to IlSTcw York. General Washington found out their plan, and attempted to interrupt their progress. The two armies met at Mon- mouth^ which lies sixty-four miles from Philadelphia. It is in the State of New Jersey. This was a severe battle. The Americans gained some advantage. It was fought on the 28th of June. Old soldiers said it was one of the hottest days they had ever felt. A great many of the men died from the excessive heat, and many others from drinking cold water. Others dropped down fainting with fatigue. It was during the night after this battle that Washington wrapped his own cloak around Lafayette, and the two tired heroes laid themselves on the ground to sleep. The British troops retreat- ed to New York, and remained inactive during the summer. 4. In the autumn. General CKnton sent troops to Georgia, and in December, the British defeated the American force, and took possession of Savannah. 3. Where did the British spend the winter ? What can you tell of the battle of Monmouth 1 4. What southern city did the British get possession of in the autumn ? 124: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. During tlie summer of this year, the celebrated Massacre of Wyoming took place. The tories of that charming valley had joined their forces with the blood-thirsty savage, in order to kill their whig neighbors. The tory party, you know, favored the king. What renders this massacre so very awful is the fact that most of the tories were related to the whigs — some of them by the nearest ties of blood. One monster, a tory, sent word to his poor old father, that " he hooped to wash his hands m his hearths hlood V Was not this truly shocking ? This wicked man murdered his father, mother, brothers and sisters, stripped off their scalps, and cut off the bruised head of his father ! Our blood runs cold at the thought of such atrocity. What wicked hearts such men must have ! What fearful crimes our wicked passions lead us to commit ! How highly we should value the blessings of peace ! How constantly we should govern our wicked passions of revenge and pride, and try to be meek and mild and lowly in spirit. What is said of the Massacre of Wyoming 1 Do you know why the whigs an ' tories were enemies % THE EEVOLUTION. 125 CHAPTEE V. OOD people began to tremble for the fate of the American army at this time. We have alluded to their extreme sufferings. Be- sides being distressed for the necessaries of life in the camp, the soldiers were greatly grieved at the desolations of their own happy homes. Many of their relatives were pining away in filthy prison-ships, where they were treated worse than brutes. Many others were dragging out a miserable existence from wounds received. Wives and mothers all over the land were exposed to very cruel treatment from the Hessians and British. ITever since the commencement of the war, were the finances of the country in a worse state than at the beginning of this year. The Americans were not able to loan or furnish money enough to carry on the war. They had received some benefit from the paper bills, and during the year, the amount issued, rose to over two hundred millions of dollars. These at first were good, but at last they depreciated to a fortieth of their nominal value. What was once good for forty dollars, now was only worth one. A great many people became very poor by this cm-rency. 126 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. 2. During this year, the British forces were successful in South Carolina and Georgia. The British and French fleets were in combat among the West India Islands, and the ISTorthern and Middle States were ravaged by parties of British sent out for plunder. Although the Americans were unsuccessful at Savannah, they were not disheartened. The conduct of the enemy at the South was so ferocious that the royal cause lost many friends during this campaign. Pro- perty of all kinds was destroyed without any cause. ISTeither women, children, nor sick, were spared. Splendid mansions were burned to the ground, and even cattle grazing were wantonly slaughtered. During the whole war, the English exhibited a ferocious spirit towards their enemies, while the Americans manifested humanity and generous forbearance. 3. It is the duty of the historian of the Eevolution to record unpleasant facts. Children must learn at what a fearful price our fathers gained their freedom ; but let them be taught that the actors in that bloody drama have passed away. The tyrannical king is gone to be judged before the King of kings ; the wicked ministers will be there too. Their places at court are now filled by men who greatly condemn those acts of Eang George and his war-loving ministers. Every year produces a closer union of feeling and action between America and England. We trust they may long stand as co-workers in every great and glorious cause, but never again as the oppressor and the oppressed. 2. How did the British behave at the South'? 3. How do the British now treat the Americans ? THE REVOLUTION. 127 4. During the year 1779, Fairfield and Norwalk were burn- ed, and much property was destroyed at New Haven. About this time General Putnam took that famous break-neck ride down the stone steps at Horse-neck. After the British had burned J^orwalk, 1,500 of them marched to Horse-neck, which is on Long Island Sound, about thirty miles from ^ew York. General Putnam was there with only 150 men. He was a fearless man. The British surprised him near the old meeting-house. He saw his men all safely escape in a neighboring swamp before he thought what to do himself. He was on horseback, and in great danger. The British came on exultingly. His quick eye surveyed the ground, and he saw but one road to escape ; this was down one hun- dred steep stone steps. The British were too great cowards to follow Putnam. They contented themselves with firing bullets after him, one of which pierced his hat. He did not care for his hat ; it was not a very fine one, for old Israel Putnam did not spend much of his money for dress. 5. The Americans were fortunate enough to have another very brave officer called General Wayne. For his country he would undergo any privation, and submit to any death. The most brilliant action of his life was the storming of Stony Point, which occurred during this year, and of which you can read an account in our larger history. 4. What towns were burned during the year 1779 ? What famous ride did the brave General Putnam take about this time ? What did the British do % 128 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 6. I must not forget to tell you something about our bold little navy. In 1776, the navy numbered twenty-six vessels, great and small, and even this number afterwards became reduced ; but, small as it was, it was energetic and active enough to capture eight hundred English, merchantmen during the first two years of the war. Among the boldest of our bold commanders during the war, was the celebrated John Paul Jones. He was exceed- ingly brave. He would cruise, without fear, in a single sloop, right before the harbors of England, and sail amid ships double the size of his own ; and while they were firing broadsides on him, he w^ould sometimes make a perfect farce of the thing by returning the broadsides with a single mus- ket-shot. His name is deserving of memory by American children as long as the American navy rides the sea, because he w^as the man who first unfurled the American flag at sea, and received the first salute offered it by a foreign nation, and the first who carried it victoriously through the fight on the waves. I would like to tell you how the flag looked which the Americans used before they adopted the stars and stripes, but no record remains which tells certainly what the flag was. It is generally believed to have been a pine tree, with a rattle-snake coiled at the roots, as if in the act of springing, and underneath the motto, " Don't tread on me." You can read of the wonderful exploits of John Paul 6. What is said of General Wayne ? 6. How large was our navy in 1776 ? What is said of John Paul Jones ? THE REVOLUTION. 129 Paul Jones' victory. Jones in larger histories. During a short cruise of three months, it is said his prizes amounted to more than a quarter of a million of dollars. The clothing which he captured was very much needed by the half-naked soldiers of the army. In 1779, the French government aided the Americans in fitting out a squadron of three frigates and two smaller ves- sels, and the intrepid Paul Jones was chosen commander. He named his vessel " The Poor Richard^'' out of respect to Franklin, who aided him in getting the vessel by his solici- tations to the French court. 7. One of his most desperate battles was fought when the Poor Pichard was old and rotten, and every timber of the What name Did Paul Jones give to his vessel ? 6* 130 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. enemy's ship, the Serwpis^ was new and stanch. When the battle had fairly commenced, and friend and foe were trem- bling, the captain of the British ship hailed to know if Jones had struck. He quickly replied, '^ I have not legun tojighty Jones ordered his vessel to be lashed fast to the enemy's ship, and a most terrific battle took place ; the guns touched muzzles, and at each discharge, huge gaps opened in the sides of each vessel. The heaviest of Jones' guns bursted, and part of the deck of the Poor Eichard was blown up, and still the fight went on. Ten times the Serapis was on fire, and ten times were the flames put out. The smoke of the battle hid the sight of the full round moon, and the awful carnage was carried on with the blaze of the guns. For three hours and a half this incessant cannonade con- tinued, within yard-arm and yard-arm of each other, and when at last the Serapis struck her colors, three hundred dead and wounded men were piled on those shattered decks, and the morning's dawn showed the Poor Kichard to be a deplorable wreck, riddled through, and stove to j)ieces. It is said Paul Jones watched the waves rolling through her, and her swayings from side to side, as he " would a dying friend ; and finally, with a swelling heart, saw her last mast disappear, and the eddying waves close with a rushing sound over her, as she sunk with the dead who had so bravely fallen on her decks." 7. Describe the battle between the Serapis and " The Poor Richard." THE REVOLUTION. 131 CHAPTEE YI. OUTH CAROLINA was the principal seat of the war during 1Y80. Sir Henry Clinton left New York and arrived before Charles- ton in February. Great preparations were made on both sides. General Lincoln, ano- ther very brave general, commanded the Ameri- cans. He had only 2,500 effective men. Sir Henry Clinton had 9,000 veteran troops. A distressing siege ensued. Charleston was the principal city of the state, and held a large quantity of provisions and am- munition. All was done by Lincoln and his brave men that soldiers could do. For a fortnight General Lincoln never took off his clothes to rest. All their provisions were ex- hausted save a little rice ; they were shut up by sea and land, fighting against despair itself. The enemy triumphed. General Lincoln surrendered his "spotless sword" and his entire army. South Carolina was thus left exposed to the rapacious troops of the enemy. 1. Who were the commanders of the two armies at the South in 1780? Which army numbered the most men 1 What happened to the Americans at Charleston 1 132 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 2. Several expeditions were sent out by Clinton, which, proving also successful, spread terror among the patriots. Among the leaders of these expeditions was the sanguinary Colonel Tarleton, whose name is associated with the bloodiest scenes of southern warfare. He boasted that he would give the " rebels no quarter." To this day, when any very dread- ful act takes place, of a brutal character, the people com- pare the action with those of Tarleton. 3. General Gates was appointed to the command of the southern army, in the place of the good and brave Lincoln, who was taken prisoner at Charleston. A bloody battle was fought at Camden on the 19th of August, in which our army experienced a shameful defeat. General Gates fought this battle contrary to the wishes and judgment of the expe- rienced Baron de Kalb and other wise men. General Gates rejected the advice, and insinuated that it was given through fear. "A few hours will show," replied the veteran De Kalb, "who are the brave." The battle commenced. In the hottest of it, the confident Gates is seen spurring his war-horse to the greatest speed after some cowardly militia. While the battle was raging, the Baron de Kalb was left alone at the head of a few brave troops, to cope with the whole British army. While, laughable enough to relate, General Gates w^as galloping as fast as his horse would carry 2. What character had Colonel Tarleton ? 3. Why was General Gates appointed commander of the Americans at the South ? What happened at Camden ? What is said of General Gates and the brave Baron de Kalb ? THE REVOLUTION. 133 him, and never stopped until he was eighty miles from the field of battle. This very brave General Gates was one of the men who envied Washington his bravery and good name. The Baron de Kalb fell pierced with eleven wounds,* and the British were victorious. Lord Rawdon and Lord Corn- wallis were the British officers in command at Camden. 4. Among the brave American officers at the South, we cannot forbear mentioning Generals Marion and Sumpter. Even Tarleton could not frighten these brave soldiers. All over the South the people honor the names of Francis Marion and Sumpter. E"ot so with General Gates. He was evidently an ambitious, selfish, weak-minded man. He was not noble-souled enough to give honor where honor was due. Many public and private acts of General Gates, show him to have been possessed of an ignoble and ill-governed mind. General Greene, a very talented and noble-minded, officer, was appointed to supersede General Gates. 5. Let us now turn our attention northward. Early in How did General Gates show his bravery during the battle at Camden 1 What was the sad fate of the brave Baron De Kalb 1 4. What kind of men w^ere Generals Marion and Sumpter 1 What was the character of General Gates ? * General Washington, many years after, on a visit to Camden, inquired for the grave of De Kalb. After looking at it a while, with a countenance marked with thought, he breathed a deep sigh, and exclaimed, " So there lies the brave De Kalb ! the generous stranger, who came from a distant land to fight our battles, and water with his blood the tree of liberty ! Would to God he had lived to share with us its fruits." — Life of Marion. 134 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. May, Lafayette, who had been on a visit to France, returned, bringing with him the good tidings that France was about sending out money and troops for the Americans. King Louis XYL also sent by Lafayette, a commission appointing Washington Lieutenant-General of the armies of France, and Vice- Admiral of its fleets. Early in July, the welcome in- telligence was received that the expected French fleet had entered the harbor of Newport, Rhode Island. On board were six thousand men, under the command of Count de Rochambeau, who was an officer of much experience. Wash- ington immediately repaired to Hartford, in order to meet Count Rochambeau in conference as to the best plan of action. 6. During the absence of Washington from head-quarters, an event occurred, which, but for the interposition of Provi- dence, would have proved the ruin of America, and made our fathers bond slaves again to the king and parliament of Great Britain. This event was the treason of Arnold. From the commencement of the war, Benedict Arnold had been among the bravest of the brave. No one ever dreamed of his becoming a traitor. His name was always associated with deeds of daring in his country's cause. Those glorious victories at Saratoga were mainly won by the intrepidity of 5. What tidings did Lafayette bring on his return from France ? What welcome intelligence was received in July ? 6. What famous event happened while General Washington went from head-quarters to meet the French commander and his troops ? What cha- racter had Benedict Arnold until this time ? THE KEVOLUTION. - 135 Benedict Arnold. But General Gates, although sitting in his camp holding arguments on various subjects during the very time of the battle, was selfish and ignoble enough to be jealous of Arnold's bravery, and refused to report his deeds of daring to Congress, even though his name rung from one end of the camp to the other. 7. Arnold resented this and other injuries. With all his courage and daring, he did not possess a noble soul. He panted for revenge. He forgot the welfare of his country, and from this time saw nothing in a good light. Washington was always the friend of Arnold, and while he condemned his angry spirit, believed he had been greatly injured. Washington had given Arnold the command of the important fortress at West Point. Immense stores and munitions of war were collected there, besides a stock of powder for the whole army. The love of Arnold for his country changed to hatred. He loved gold, and for it he determined to betray West Point into the hands of the Eng- lish. For this they promised to pay him 30,000 pounds sterling, and make him a Brigadier-General in the very army he had once fought against. 8. Major Andre, a brave and highly educated British officer, was appointed by Clinton to confer with Arnold. By several How did General Gates treat General Arnold at Saratoga ? 7. What important fortress had Washington given Arnold to command 1 What wicked thing did Arnold determine to do 1 What were the British to give him as a reward for his treachery 1 8. What is said of Major Andre ? 136 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. providential events, their plans were thwarted. Andre was on his return to Sir Henry Clinton, after having agreed that Arnold should surrender the fortress on the 25th of Sep- tember. Andre was on horseback, spurring on towards 'New York with great speed, happy in the thought that their plans promised success. At Tarrytown, near the lines of the royal army, he was intercepted by an American soldier, who held his horse by the bridle until two companions came to his aid. In his alarm Andre did not show his passport. The soldiers soon found they had taken a valuable prize. Andre offered them a beautiful gold watch, his purse, his horse, or anything they would ask to release him. They were poor men, but they would not be bribed. They searched his boots, and found a plan of the fort, and other papers concealed in the linings. 9. Arnold the traitor heard of Andre's arrest in time to escape on board the Vulture, a British ship, which lay in the river. Andre, according to the laws of war, was hanged as a spy. He was universally beloved. Many tears were shed by friends and foes at his untimely end ; but neither prayers nor tears nor love could save him from an ignominious death. Could the traitor Arnold have been suspended on the gibbet erected for Andre, scarce a tear or a sigh would have been produced. The British army detested him, and wherever he How was Major Andre discovered ? 9. What became of Arnold? What was the sad fate of the gifted Andre 1 Did any one love or respect Arnold 1 THE REVOLUTION. 137 went the finger of scorn pointed him out as "the traitor Arnold." His future life was a wretched one — stung with remorse, censured by every honest heart, he could only drag out a miserable existence. Truly the way of the transgressor is hard. ^*^^»,^^ 138 History of the united states. CHAPTEK YII. MMEDIATELY Arnold joined the British army, and began by every means in his power to destroy the lives and property of his coun- trymen. He was sent on an expedition for plunder, and set on fire several places, among which w^as his native village. Yery important battles were fought at the South during this campaign. The soldiers there loved General Greene very much. They often said if they were so unfortunate as to lose Washington, General Greene would be the man of their choice to command them. 2. At Cowpens the Americans, under the brave Colonel Morgan, were victorious. They were glad of this victory, because they gained it over the infamous Colonel Tarleton. The British lost 10 officers and 129 privates killed, and 29 officers and 200 wounded. The Americans lost 12 men killed, and 60 wounded. Congress gave Colonel Morgan a gold medal as a reward for his bravery at Cowpens. 1. What did Arnold afterwards do as a British soldier ? love General Greene ? 2. What happened at Cowpens % Did the soldiers THE REVOLUTION. 139 3. Cornwallis did not like to hear of the defeat of his favorite general, and he determined to take the field in person. You can read in our larger history how Cornwallis followed up General Greene, and how God evidently protected the Americans. At Guilford Court-house, in ISTorth Carolina, a very severe battle was fought. The British gained some advantage, but Fox, a British member of Parliament, said, " Another such metory will ruin the British armyr At Eutaw Springs General Greene obtained a great victory over the British. This action nearly finished the war in South Carolina. 4. It is almost impossible to describe the utter destitution of General Greene's army. Whole ranks were barefooted, nearly all in rags, and hundreds entirely naked. General Greene's heart ached as he saw his wretched band pressing on to battle under the flag of liberty. Many a time the hero, so noted for his bravery, wept, and his voice choked with emotion as he beheld their sufi"erings. The manly heart, which neither toil nor danger could subdue, sunk under the tide of love and pity for his men. Those tears and those gushings of sympathy honor the chieftain more than the laurels of victory. General Greene's name will go down to posterity beside that of Washington. His soldiers loved him with devotion, and they would go with him willingly where- ever he commanded. 3. What other battles were fought in the South 1 4. What was the situation of General Greene's army % What is said here of General Greene % 140 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. Unlike Gates, he shared the toils and dangers with his troops. Unlike Gates also, he was too noble-sonled to be jealous of Washington, for, next to America, he loved Washington the best. 5. Lord Cornwallis, finding General Greene so successful, marched to Virginia, collected his forces, and fortified him- self at Yorktown. On his route, his army spread desolation and suffering in every direction. Washington immediately resolved to gather all the forces he could muster and attack Cornwallis. He made the enemy believe he was going to attack Sir Henry Clinton at 'New York, instead of Lord Cornwallis in Virginia. This kept General Clinton from sending troops to Yorktown. General Lafayette was sent on with some men to watch the British, and soon after Wash- ington very quietly left his camp at White Plains, crossed over the Hudson with his army, and marched as rapidly as possible through New Jersey and Pennsylvania. We have told you that the British army spread ruin wherever they went. Not so the Americans. Washington would not allow them unnecessarily to commit any depredation. 6. Clinton did not find out that Washington had gone South until it was too late to pursue him. When Washington reached Chester, he heard the cheering news of the welcome arrival in the Chesapeake of twenty-four French ships, under Count de Grasse. The French troops landed and j oined their 5. At what place did Lord Cornwallis fortify himself? How did the conduct of the American army differ from the British ? 6. What cheering news did Washington soon hear 1 THE REVOLUTION. 141 forces with the Americans. The British army was blockaded by land and sea. A close siege commenced, and finally Lord Cornwallis was obliged to surrender. On the 19th of October, 1781, this glorious event took place. The British army, mili- tary stores and shipping, and 7,073 prisoners, fell into the hands of General Washington. 7. This battle decided the great contest in favor of America. Then there was joy all over the union. Merrily the bells rung, cannons were fired in quick succession, and bonfires and illuminations shone all over the land. What joy ! What joy! For seven dark, long years, the land had shaken to the tread of arm^ies. Wives and husbands -had been sepa- rated, and thousands of happy famihes broken up. A horrid thought that perhaps England would be victorious, had borne down their spirits by day and night. But now their toils were ended. Their haughty foe was conquered ! They would be bondmen no longer ! Before the first burst of joy was over, Washington ordered divine service to be performed in the different brigades of the army. Congress resolved to go in procession to church, to return public thanks to the God of armies for this signal victory. Washington liberated all persons under arrest, that all might partake of the general 8. On the 30th of November, 1782, peace was declared, au'^^ What great event took place on the 19th of October, 1781 ? 7. What was decided by this battle ? How did the Americans show their joy ? What did Washington immediately order ? 142 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. Great Britain acknowledged tlie Independence and Sovereignty of the United States of America. Thus the patriots obtained compensation for the streams of blood which their compa- nions-in-arms had so freely shed. 9. In 1Y83, the army was disbanded. They were very poor, but they were freemen. Henceforth their hardly-earned money would be all their own, and not paid out in taxes to profligate governors. On the 25th of November, the British evacuated New York. It was a very affecting sight to see Washington take leave of his soldiers and officers. With much emotion, their beloved chieftain took leave of them. " Companions-in-arms 1" said he, "I now take my leave of you. May your latter days be as prosperous and happy as your former ones have been glorious and honorable." With tears rolling down his cheeks, he bade his officers adieu. They, too, in tears, could only grasp the hand of the much- loved Washington, and bid him a silent adieu. He then proceeded to Annapolis, the seat of Congress, where he re- signed his commission, and hastened to enjoy once more the comforts of domestic life at Mount Yernon. 10. Thus ended the Revolutionary War. By it Great Britain lost her devoted and loyal colonies, £100,000,000 sterling, and 50,000 subjects. The Americans, too, had. lost 8. When did Great Britain acknowledge the United States free and independent 1 9. When was the patriot army disbanded ? Describe the parting o* Washington and his officers. 10. What did Great Britain lose by the Revolutionary War ? THE EEVOLUTION, 143 a great deal, and many a brave soldier had been slain in battle, but in return they gained their liberty. They could now make just laws for themselves, and had a right to govern themselves according to their own wishes. The wise men of the nation said they must have some rules for the people to obey. So they talked the matter over, and finally adopted the ''Federal Constitution.'^^ This was in September, 1T87. EACE has at length dawned on the land. After seven long years of strife, the dark clouds of war have armies, whose pathway had been marked with fire and blood, no longer tread our shores. Seven years of war, of darkness and gloom, of privation and of suf- fering. But all is past, and as the glad shout of peace, " we are free, we are free !" echoes from hill-top to hill-top, how the heart of the infant nation leaps for joy. The land is free, indeed. But where are those who strug- HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 145 gled so nobly for their country. Mothers, wives, sisters, — where are those sons, husbands, and brothers, choking down your tears, you sent forth to the battle-field? Some have returned to enjoy with you the fruits of peace. More, alas, have moistened with their blood the soil they loved, and left their bones on the hills they struggled so bravely to defend ! The seven years of war are in truth over ; but how many pleasant places have been wasted by fire and sword ! how many homes made desolate, how many hearts saddened with the loss of a husband, brother, father, or lover ! We may, in truth, say that this young republic was born in the midst of sufi'ering, and baj^tized in blood and tears. At the close of the war in 1Y83, the United States owed a debt of more than forty millions of dollars. Even the in- terest of this they were unable to pay ; and, as a matter of course, thousands of poor soldiers and others, to whom the government were indebted, lost that to which they were rightly entitled. At length it became clear that the young nation must adopt some distinct form of government, or the very liberties they had fought so hard to obtain, would slip from their grasp. Accordingly, in May, 1787, deputies from each of the states, except Ehode Island, met at Philadelphia to form a new constitution. This it was not easy to do. After nearly four months had passed in discussion, sometimes fierce and bitter, without any prospect of completing their labors, the great and good Dr. Franklin rose and reminded the conven- 7 146 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. tion that they seemed to have forgotten their indebtedness to God, that He governs the affairs of men, and expressed his belief that, without His aid, they could not succeed in their political bviilding ; their projects would be confounded, and themselves become a reproach and a by-word to future ages. He therefore moved that henceforth, morning and evening, prayers should be offered, imploring the aid and blessing of Heaven. The suggestion was ado^Dted. Greater harmony now prevailed, and in a short time their labors were com- pleted. The result was the present Constitution of the United States, which, shortly after its adoption in conven- tion, was adopted by the several states of the union. Who among the great men of the nation will the people select as their first President? The choice is not difficult. The eyes of a nation are turned to Mount Yernon, and Washington is called from the quiet of domestic life to pre- side over the infant nation. What did Dr. Franklin advise Congress to do ? What was the result? Washington's administration. 147 CHAPTEE I. OST proper was it, that he who had stood at the post of danger in the hour of trial, whose calm, clear voice had so often been heard above the roar of battle, whose wis- dom and courage had so often buoyed up sinking hopes, should be selected as the first chief ruler of his country. Washington received the news of his election while on his farm in Yirginia. New York was then the seat of government, and to that place it was neces- sary he should go to assume the duties of his office. In his journey from Virginia to New York, he was everywhere re- ceived with the utmost affection. Old soldiers gathered around him, and all hastened to catch a look of him they had learned to love so well. 2. At Trenton, the ladies erected a triumphal arch, orna- mented with flowers, inscribed on the front with " The de- fenders of the, mothers will he the protectors of the daughter s.'''^ As he approached the arch, a procession of ladies met him, with their little daughters dressed in white, and as they 1. Who was chosen President? 2. How was he honored on his route to New York ? 148 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. strewed his pathway with flowers, sung a glad song of wel- come. 3. On the 30th of April, 1Y89, at the old Federal Hall, which then stood near where the custom-house now stands, Washington was inaugurated first President of the United States. In the open gallery of the City Hall, the solemn oath of ofl&ce was administered to him before a countless multitude. Reverently he bowed to idss the sacred volume, and promised, to the best of his ability, to defend, preserve, and protect the Constitution of the "United States. This was the crowning act of the War of Independence. The corner- stone of the great Temple of Liberty was laid, and the dawn of a new era broke upon the world. Notwithstanding at that time there were but thirteen states, and the population of the nation numbered only about three millions, yet great judgment and sMlful statesmanship were required in the commencement of a new government. 4. Fortunately for the world, and the future success of the nation, men were placed at the head of the various depart- ments of state possessed of powerful minds and far-reaching views of statesmanship. They were actuated not by selfish interests, but by a strong love of country, and the hope that it might one day become a great and powerful nation, which should be the home of freedom and a refuge for the perse- cuted and oppressed. 3. Where was Washington inaugurated ? 4. What characters had the officers of the new 2;overnment 1 Washington's administration. 149 5. In the second session of Congress, which commenced Jan- nary 8th, 1790, the government assumed its own foreign and domestic debts, amounting to fifty-four millions of dollars, and also that which several states contracted during the war, estimated at twenty-five millions. To pay these debts, the proceeds from the sale of public lands lying in the western territory were appropriated. 6. In 1791, Vermont became a state. In 1792, Kentucky was admitted into the union, making the number of states fifteen. The first settlement made in this state was in 1775. A bold hunter, named Daniel Boone, was shoveling away some earth and preparing to build a house, when the news of the battle of Lexington reached him. So the first settlement was called Lexington. A portion of the Indian tribes northwest of the Ohio river, were still engaged in war, directing their hostilities princi- pally against the frontiers of Kentucky. In 1791, General St. Clair experienced a disastrous defeat near the Miami village. In 1794, General Wayne totally defeated the In- dians,' and in 1795, a treaty was concluded with all the hostile tribes, on terms mutually satisfactory. 7. Serious apprehensions were entertained of another war between the United States and England. The Americans were accused of preventing loyalists from regaining posses- 5. What debts had the United States 1 6. Why was the first settlement in Kentucky called Lexington ? 7. Why did people fear a war would break out between England and America 1 150 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. sion of their estates, and the English of making illegal seizures of American property at sea, and of holding pos- session of military posts on the western frontier. Mr. Jay was sent to England, where he concluded a satisfactory treaty with the British government. In 1Y96, Tennessee was admitted into the union. 8. Washington declined being President longer, having already served two terms, amounting to eight years. John Adams was chosen as his successor, and Thomas Jefferson elected as Yice-President. Adams was inaugurated on the 4:th of March, 1797. It had been strongly advised by Washington that the seat of government should be removed to a more central situation than ISTew York or Philadelphia. Accordingly a tract of country, ten miles square, was ceded to the United States by Maryland and Virginia. This tract lies on both sides of the Potomac. A city was laid out on the Maryland side, bearing the name of the " Father of his country," Washington. Thither the public offices were removed in 1800, and Congress met here for the first time. The city is four miles square, and elegantly laid out. 9. On the 14th of December, 1799, General Washington died at Mount Yernon, in the 68th year of his age. He died as he had lived, calm and resigned to the will of God. 8. Who was the next President ? Where was the new seat of govern- ment located 1 9. When did Washington die 1 What is said of his death ? ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION. 151 His death struggle was painful in the extreme. He said, " I die hard, but I am not afraid to die." Noble Washing- ton ! The nation bowed themselves in grief at his loss. All felt that they had lost a friend. 10. The land was hung in crape, and minute-guns were fired as the more than kinglj sleeper was borne to his last resting-place. His old war-horse, saddled and bridled, walked riderless beside the coffin. 'No people ever mourned for so great a leader. Even France, then deluged in blood, put on crape, by order of jN^apoleon. The memory of Washington will ever be revered by the good, for the purity of his character and high-souled pa- triotism. 152 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES CHAPTEE II iN" 1801, Thomas Jefferson ^as elected Presi- dent, and Aaron Burr Yice-President. In 1802, Ohio was admitted into the union. In the same year, Spain ceded Louisiana to France. In the year following, the United States pur- chased the whole territory of Louisiana from France for $15,000,000. ISTotwithstanding harmony now existed between the United States and the great European powers, the Americans had been engaged since 1801 in a vexatious war with Tripoli, one of the Barbary States, situated on the north coast of Africa. These states were pirates, capturing the vessels of all nations who did not pay them annual tribute. This tribute the United States at length determined not to pay. 2. In 1803, they sent several ships to the Mediterranean sea, under Commodore Preble. Captain Bainbridge com- manded the Philadelphia, and, in chasing a vessel into the harbor of Tripoli, ran his ship on a rock. Himself and 1. Who was President in 1801 1 What new states were admitted into the union at this time ? With whom were the United States at war 1 2. What took place in 1803 1 Jefferson's administration. 153 crew were then taken 'prisoners. The officers were treated as prisoners of war, but the crew were chained and compelled to labor as slaves. Soon after, Commodore Decatm^, with twenty men and a pilot, one dark evening, cautiously ap- proached the Philadelphia, which was then at anchor in the harbor guarded by the enemy, and set it on fire. 3. The American prisoners were treated with great cruelty. Captain Eaton united his forces with Hamet, an expelled Bashaw, crossed a desert of five hundred miles, and, after a battle of two hours and a half, took possession of Derne, the capital of a large province of Tripoli. The Bashaw was alarmed, and readily consented to terms of peace. 4. England was accustomed to search American vessels for British seamen, and in this way frequently carried ofi" Ame- rican citizens, and compelled them to perform the duties of the British navy. The frigate Chesapeake, while near the coast of the United States, was fired on by an English ship. Three of her men were killed, and eighteen wounded. Four of her men were carried off, under pretence that they were English sailors. It was afterwards proved that three of them were American citizens. 5. This state of affairs could not last long. The United States could not, with any regard for her national honor, 3. How were the American prisoners treated ? 4. What were the English often accused of, regarding seamen? De- scribe the attack of the Chesapeake. 5. Why were there signs of war between England and America 1 154: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES, permit her citizens to be carried away, or submit to the often repeated insults to her national flag. The sky was again becoming dark and threatening. At the close of Mr. Jefferson's second term of office, war between the two nations, unless England desisted from her unjust course, was inevitable. In 1809, James Madison was elected President, and George Clinton Yice-President. Madison's administration. 155 CHAPTEE III. WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN. AE, is a fearful scourge. It breaks up the family circle. It carries woe and misery through the land. But when the strong insult and trample on the rights of another nation, war is inevitable. No nation would be justifiable in submitting to such insults, or in bear- ing patiently such wrongs. When a nation ceases to be able to protect her own citizens, she may as well cease to exist as a nation. In 1810, Great Britain, still persisting in her hostile plans, had stationed vessels of war before the principal harbors in the United States to impress seamen from our merchant vessels and insult our national flag. In one instance, however, their insolence was punished as it deserved. Commodore Rogers, sailing in the frigate President, met in the evening, near the coast of Virginia, the British sloop-of-war Little Belt, and hailed her. A shot 1. What did Great Britain continue to do in 1810 ? What reception did the sloop-of-war Little Belt receive from Rogers 1 156 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. was the only reply. The fire was instantly returned, and continued until the enemy's guns were silenced. 2. While war was thus kindling between England and America, other events of no less interest were transpiring on our western frontiers. Tecumseh^ a celebrated chieftain of great eloquence, and his twin-brother, called the Prophet, gained a strong ascen- dancy over the minds of the Indians, and united them in a firm compact against the United States. Governor Harrison marched against them, and on the 6th of November encamped at Tippecanoe. ISTotwithstanding, Tecumseh sent messengers, agreeing that hostilities should be deferred till morning, Harrison did not believe him, and therefore drew up his men in battle array, and ordered them to repose on their arms. Towards morning the Indians, be- lieving the whites all asleep, rushed on them. But their treachery did not save them, for, after a bloody fight, the Indians were totally routed. 3. On the 19th of July, 1812, war was formally declared against Great Britain. The first military enterprise undertaken, was the invasion of Canada by General Hull, the governor of Michigan terri- tory. On the 12th of Ju.ly, with 2,000 troops. General Hull 2. What was Tecumseh doing on the western frontier ? Who com- manded the American forces % Where was a battle fought, and who was victorious *? 3. When was war with England declared? What was the first military- enterprise "^ WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 157 crossed the river at Detroit and encamped at Sandwich, with the object of marching on the British post at Maiden, and from thence proceeding to Montreal. In the meantime, he received news that Maiden had been re-inforced, and that Mackinaw, an American post above Detroit, had surrendered to the British and Indians. Greneral Hull, panic-struck, in spite of the entreaties of the officers, and the indignation of his troops, hastened back to Detroit. The inhabitants of Canada, who had confided in his protec- tion, by this disgraceful and cowardly retreat, were abandoned to the mercies of the British. 4. On the 15th of August, Greneral Brock, the commander of Maiden, stationed himself opposite Detroit, and sent a summons to Hull to surrender. Hull replied that he would defend the fort to the last extremity. The next day, when the English were advancing to the attack, and the American troops drawn up in order of battle, in numbers superior to the English and Indians, were anx- iously waiting to commence the fight, they were suddenly ordered within the fort, and a white flag hung from the walls in token of submission. This shameful surrender, by which an important post and a vast amount of am.munition passed into the hands of the English, excited the anger and mortification, not only of the officers and troops, but the What intelligence did Hull receive ? What did he do ? 4. When did General Brock station himself opposite Detroit? What message did he send to Hull, and what did Hull reply ? What did Hull do the next day, when the English troops were advancing to battle ? 158 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. whole nation. Hull was afterwards tried before a court-mar- tial, convicted of cowardice, and sentenced to death. On ac- count of his age, however, he was pardoned by the President. 5. On the 13th of October, General Yan Eenssalaer, with a force composed mostly of E"ew York militia, made an attack on Queenstown on the Niagara frontier. The Eng- lish, receiving a re-inforcement of one thousand men, and a portion of the American troops refusing to cross the river, the republican army was obliged to surrender. During the battle. General Yan Eenssalaer was wounded, and General Brock, the English commander, killed. While our troops were experiencing defeat on land, on the water the American flag was victorious. 6. On the 19th of August, three days after the shameful defeat of Hull, a series of splendid victories were com- menced by Captain Isaac Hull of the United States frigate Constitution, who, after an obstinate fight, conquered the British frigate Guerriere, commanded by Captain Dacres. Captain Porter, of the Essex, in a daring attempt, captured a brig from a convoy, and found on board $14,000 and 150 soldiers. He shortly after captured the Albert. On the 18th of October, Captain Jones, of the sloop-of-war Wasp, cap- tured the brig Frolic, after a long and bloody engagement. Of what was Hull convicted by a court-martial 1 Why was he pardoned 1 5. What battle was fought on the 13th of October, and who were vic- torious ? 6. When did the contest take place between the Constitution and Guer- riere 1 What did Capt. Porter capture 1 What did Capt. Jones capture 1 WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 159 7. On the 25th of October, the brave and gallant Decatur, commanding the frigate United States, after a bloody action of an hour and a half, captured the Macedonian, which was manned with three hundred men. In December the Constitution, (sometimes called Old Iron- sides) commanded by Captain Bainbridge, captured the Java, a large frigate, manned with four hundred men. Thus, on the ocean, victory hovered over the American flag ; and, in many a well-contested fight and glorious victory, the proud and haughty foes were humbled, and their claim to the title of " Mistress of the Seas " forever silenced. Be- sides this glorious series of victories by our navy, the Ameri- can privateers had taken during the year two hundred and fifty British vessels, and three thousand prisoners. 7. What vessel did Decatur capture ? What did Captain Bainbridge capture % 160 HISTOKY OF THE UNITED STATES. CHAPTEE lY. WAE WITH GEEAT BRITAIN, CONTINUED. OW the whole northern frontier of the United States was included in the arena of war. The army of the west, commanded by General Harrison, was stationed at the head of Lake Erie. Generals Dearborn, Hamp- ton, and Winchester, were the other American generals, stationed also at the north. The British forces were under the general superintendence of Sir George Provost, under whom were Colonels Proctor and Yincent. 2. Early in January, the inhabitants of Frenchtown"^ gave information that they feared an attack from a large body of British and Indians. A body of Americans went to their relief, and drove the enemy from the place. Before they left Frenchtown, they were attacked by a force of British 1. By whom was the army of the west commanded 1 Who were the other American generals ? Who commanded the British forces 1 2. What is said of the contest at Frenchtown 1 * Frenchtown is situated on the river Raisin, twenty-six miles from Detroit W A-R WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 161 and Indians, under the cruel Colonel Proctor. The Ameri- cans were routed : many of them were killed, and nearly five hundred taken prisoners, among whom was General Winchester. Proctor pledged his honor that their lives and property should be secure. But the honor of a wicked man is not to be trusted. Scarcely had the Americans surrendered, when the swords of the officers were taken from them : many of them were stripped nearly naked and robbed. The Indians were allowed to strip and scalp the dead ; and the prisoners, instead of being guarded by British soldiers, were given to the Indians, who either reserved them to be roasted at the stake or to be ransomed at a very high price. The soldiers, thus massacred and tortured, were sons of the most respectable families in Kentucky. Their mangled remains lay exposed to the storm and sun, or the beasts of the forest, for months, before their afflicted friends dared to gather together their bleaching bones for the tomb. This barbarous action has disgraced the name of Proctor among Americans, but the British rewarded him with the rank of Major-general in the army. 3. When General Harrison heard the sad story of the defeat at Frenchtown, he erected fort Meigs. Here he was besieged by General Proctor with one thousand British, and twelve hundred Indians. An express was sent for twelve hundred militia from Kentucky under General Clay to assist Did not Proctor violate his word 1 How were the dead treated 1 3. What did General Harrison do when he heard of the massacre? 162 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. General Harrison. After many attacks, the British finally were compelled to retire. Proctor then proceeded to fort Stephenson on the Sandusky river. This fort was com- manded by young Major Croghan, with 150 men. Proctor was again defeated. 4. In the latter part of April, the heroic General Pike was sent with 1,Y00 men to attack York, the capital of Upper Canada. He had nearly succeeded in the capture when he was mortally wounded by the explosion of a magazine. He shouted, " move on, my brave fellows !" and, like the gallant Wolfe, he died in the arms of victory. He was carried on board a vessel, and soon after died with the flag which had waved over the fort at his head. ]>[othing important was gained by either power during the remainder of the spring along the Canada line. 5. A terrible warfare was at this time being carried on at some parts of the sea-board, and on the ocean. The British blockaded Chesapeake Bay, and made excursions on land, plundering property, burning villages, and treating the inhabitants with great barbarity. On the first of June, the Americans experienced the loss of the frigate Chesapeake, which was captured by the British frigate Shannon off Boston harbor. The loss was more se- verely felt, because on board of her fell some brave ofiicers, When was Proctor again defeated 1 4. What is said of General Pike 1 5. What did the British do round ChesapeaJte Bay 1 What is said of the loss of the frigate Chesapeake 1 WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 163 among whom was the gallant commander. Captain Lawrence. After he was wounded, as he was being carried below, with a musket-ball lodged in his body, he issued his last heroic order, " JDonH give up the shvp P'' On the 14:th of August, we also lost the Argus. It was captured by the Pelican. 6. On the 5th of September, the tide of fortune turned in our favor. The British brig Boxer surrendered to the Enter- prise. But Lieutenant Burrows, the lamented commander of the Enterprise, was mortally wounded. After the sur- render, as the sword of the enemy was presented to him, he exclaimed, ^' I die contented P'' The British commander was also killed, and both commanders were buried side by side at Portland. Commodore Perry obtained a splendid victory on Lake Erie, which he described to General Harrison in the fol- lowing brief letter : '' We have met the enemy, and they a/re ours — two ships, two brigs, one schooner, and one sloop." 7. The Emperor of Russia, wishing to see an end put to the war between the British and Americans, offered to be a mediator. Great Britain declined the offer, but was willing to meet commissioners directly from America. Commissioners were sent out from this country, among whom were John Quincy Adams and Henry Clay. They What other vessel did the Americans lose 1 6. What took place on the 5th of September'? 7. What offer did the Emperor of Russia make "? Why were commis- sioners sent to Ghent ? 164: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. were to meet at Ghent in Flanders, and commence the pleasing task of reconciliation. 8. At this" time a war broke out with the Creek Indians living in the southern United States. Many of the Creeks were dissatisfied with the advance of civilization in their tribe, and others were stirred up to strife by presents and arms from the British government, made with a view of enlisting them against the United States. The Creeks held out for a long time. General Jackson and General Floyd, with about 2,500 men, were sent against them. Their country was laid waste, their villages burned, and many lives lost on both sides. At Tallapoosa, where the final battle was fought, six hundred warriors lay dead on the field, and their chief mournfully exclaimed, "While there was a chance for success, I never asked for peace ; but my people are gone, and I now ask it for my nation and myself." On the 9th of August, 1814, a treaty was made with them by General Jackson, in which they promised to take no more bribes from the British, and to allow the whites free naviga- tion of their rivers, and the opening of roads through their lands. 9. War was still carried on between the British and Ame- ricans. The eastern states now suflfered the fearful calami- ties of war. 8. What war broke out at the South ? Describe the Creek war. What was the result "? 9. What part of the United States suffered now from war 1 WAR WITH GREAT BRITAIN. 165 The American navy in every action sustained the same character for bravery by which its glory was acquired. On land the battles of Chippewa and Niagara did equal honor to the bravery of the troops, and showed that the same de- termined spirit of opposition to the tyrannical foe reigned on land as on the sea. 10. In June, intelligence was received of the complete overthrow of ]^apoleon Bonapaxte, and the Americans feared that the British, having vanquished this great foe, would renew hostilities with increased ardor. These fears were soon realized. The white sails of a fleet of twenty-one sail of the line arrived in Chesapeake Bay, and another fleet from Ber- muda. Accompanying these were several thousand land troops from the victorious army of Lord Wellington, the conqueror of Napoleon Bonaparte. These were commanded by General Eoss. 11. On the 23d of August, six thousand British troops forced their way to Washington, the capital of the United States, burnt the capitol, its valuable libraries. President's house, and other public buildings, and the great bridge across the Potomac. What a disgraceful action ! The wanton destruction of a nation's pride and ornament — the destruc- tion of which could not hasten the termination of the war. The British next attacked Baltimore, which was resolutely What is said of the American navy ? 10. What intelligence was received in June ? 11. What took place in August? Was not this a disgraceful act? 166 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. defended. General Koss, the British commander, was among the killed. 12. Notwithstanding the American and British commis- sioners were still engaged at jGrhent, the British continued active warfare. Early in December, 1814, a British fleet of sixty sail appeared off the coast east of the Mississippi river. Fifteen thousand British troops, under Sir Edward Packenham, soon after landed, and attacked the American entrenchments before New Orleans. He was compelled to retire. On the 1st of January, the British were again re- pulsed ; and on the 8th occurred the famous battle of New Orleans. General Packenham with 12,000 men advanced, determined to defeat the Americans, who, under the brave General Jackson, were arranged in a straight line of a thousand yards. As the enemy approached within reach of the mus- ketry, the long line of the Americans poured on them one sheet of fire, and hundreds of the British fell at every dis- charge. The British soon became disordered and fled. General Packenham, who was a brother-in-law of the celebrated Lord Wellington, in an attempt to rally the troops, was killed. Generals Gibbs and Kean attempted to push forward the retreating troops, and they in turn were severely, the former What place was next attacked ? 12. When did a British fleet appear off the Mississippi ? How many British troops landed 1 By whom were they commanded 1 What place did he attack ? When did the famous battle of New Orleans take place ? CONCLUSION OF THE WAR 167 Jackson's victory at New Orleans. ^ mortally wounded. The field of battle was literally covered with dead and wounded men. The British lost on this memorable day nearly 3,000 men. Seven hundred slept in death, and one thousand four hundred were wounded. The Americans lost only seven 'killed and six wounded. 13. This is the last military achievement we have to record. The enemy thought best to retire secretly, and great joy reigned throughout the American camp and throughout the United States. Scarcely had the glad shout of triumph died away, when the still more welcome news arrived of a treaty How many English soldiers were there 1 Who commanded the Ame- ricans % What was the result of the battle ? How many of the enemy were killed and wounded ] How many of the Americans ? 168 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. of peace^ which was signed at Ghent on the 24th of Decem- ber, 1814. On the 17th of February, this treaty was ratified by the President and Senate. All parties welcomed peace once more — the soldier, the sailor, and the people generally — all gladly returned to their accustomed occupations. Great Britain proved the strength and spirit of our rising republic ; and our security against future wars rests on a firmer basis than the most solemn treaty. 14. In 1816, Congress voted an annual appropriation of one million of dollars, during eight years, to increase the naval force of the United States, and re-establish a national bank. In December, 1816, Indiana became an independent state, and was received into the union. In 1816, the American Bible Society was formed at New York. The American Tract Society, its twin-sister in doing good, was instituted in 1814. 13. When was the treaty of peace signed ? When ratified ? 14. What appropriation did Congress vote in 1816? monkoe's administk ation. 169 CHAPTEE y T the next Presidential election, held in 1816, James Monroe of- Yirginia, was chosen Pre- sident, and Daniel D. Tompkins of New York, Yice-President. ' Peace now reigned throughout the land. The energies of the nation, instead of being employed in war, were directed to the development of the immense resources of the country. In a short time, continued prosperity relieved the land from embar- rassments, which are the necessary consequences of war. In 181Y, Mississippi was admitted into the union ; and in the following year, Illinois added one more to the now rapidly increasing sisterhood of states. 2. During the year 1818, a bloody war was carried on be- tween the Seminole Indians and the United States. General Gaines was sent to reduce them to submission. His force, however, was too small, and General Jackson was ordered to 1. Who was the next President? When was Indiana admitted into the union ? When Mississippi and Illinois ? 2. What bloody war was carried on in 1818 1 Why did not General Gaines succeed in reducing them to submission ? 8 lYO HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. take command, and raise from the surrounding states what force was necessary. Jackson soon succeeded in bringing the Indians to terms. During the war, he took possession of St. Marks, a Spanish garrison. Finding there two men who had been busily engaged in exciting the Indians to hostilities, they were tried by a court-martial and executed. 3. In 1819, the United States acquired Florida, another large addition to their territory, which was ceded to them by Spain. Spain had now no possessions left to her on the Atlantic coast of North America. She now had but a slight foothold in that new world which was discovered by navi- gators sailing from her ports. In this year, Alabama was admitted into the union, and the year following, Maine became an independent state. In 1821, Missouri applied for admission ; and then the question arose, " Shall she be admitted as a slave state ?" Fierce and angry w^as the discussion, but at length it w^as decided in the affirmative, and Missouri added one more to the list of states. At the next election, Mr. Monroe was a second time chosen President. 4. During the summer of 1824, the Marquis de Lafayette paid a visit to the land whose cause he had adopted in its Who at length brought them to terms 1 Why were two men executed at St. Marks'? 3. What additional territory did the United States acquire in 1819 ? When were Alabama and Maine admitted into the union 1 When Mis- souri 1 4. When did Lafayette visit this country 1 Monroe's administration. 171 darkest hours, and whose liberties he had assisted so much in establishing. His head was now frosted with the snows of seventy winters ; and nearly fifty years had rolled away since he had battled side by side with "Washington in the sacred cause of liberty. From one end of the union to the other, he was received with the warmest outbursts of popular feeling ; old and young gathered around him, as around a dear but long-absent friend, and the shouts of millions of glad hearts rolled through the land as the illustrious and dearly-loved guest mov^ed through their midst. His was no servile reception. Those shouts were not the parrot-cry of trained slaves, but the outburst of feeling swelling up from the deep fountains of a nation of grateful, happy hearts. How changed the land since he had fought in its battles and suifered in its cause ! Then it was ravaged by war — now all were happy in the enjoyment of peace and liberty! But many of his old friends and companions-in-arms were not there to meet him, for they slept the sleep of death. The form of Washington was mouldering back to dust in the tomb of Mount Yernon, and Lafayette felt, as he gazed w^ith tearful eye on the sacred dust, that he too must soon join his old companions in the world of spirits. 5. During the war, he had expended nearly all his private fortune, but had received no remuneration from this country. Congress now presented him $200,000 and a township of How was Lafayette received 1 5. What appropriation did Congress make to him 1 172 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. land. The frigate Brandjwine was prepared to convey him to his country, and he was attended to the place of embarka- tion by the President and most of the public officers in Washington. John Quincy Adams was chosen the next President, and Mr. Calhoun Yice-President. Who was chosen the next President 1 J. Q. ADAMS' ADMINISTRATION. 1Y3 CHAPTEE YI. UEING the administration of Mr. Adams, extending from 1825 to 1829, the country was eminently prosperous and happy. No wars desolated our borders ; manufactories increased, sciences flourished, and the coun- try was marching on with rapid stride in the path of greatness and power. On the 50th anniversary of American Independ- ence, two venerable ex-Presidents, Adams and Jeffer- son, closed their eyes in death. They had stood side by side in the cause of their country, and on the same day the sum- mons of death called them to their final home. 2. At the next election, Andrew Jackson was chosen Pre- sident, and John C. Calhoun Yice- President. The nation at this time was exceedingly prosperous. It was at peace with all nations. Agriculture, manufactures, and commerce, were in a highly flourishing state, and the treasury had within its vaults more than five millions of dollars. 1. What was the state of the country during Adams' administration? When did John Adams and Jefferson die "? 2. Who was chosen President at the next election 1 What is said of the nation at this time 1 174 HISTORY OF THE UNITED. STATES. A bill for re-chartering the United States Bank, passed both houses of Congress in 1832. The bill was vetoed by the President, so that at the expiration of the charter of the bank in 1836, it ceased to be a national institution. 3. For a time, the most intense excitement prevailed in South Carolina respecting a tariff bill, which had passed Congress in 1832, imposing additional duties on foreign goods. They not only declared, in their own state, but boldly maintained in the halls of Congress, in the person of their illustrious senator, John C. Calhoun, that the act was unconstitutional. The duties, they said, should never be paid by South Carolina ; and if government persisted in its attempt to enforce payment, they would withdraw from the union, and establish an independent government for them- selves. The President, who knew no fear, nothing daunted by the storm, determined to fulfil his duty, declared the law must and should be executed, and opposition repelled even by force if necessary. It is impossible to say what might have been the consequences, had not Mr. Clay introduced a com- promise bill providing for the gradual reduction of duties, until 1833, when they were to sink to the general level of twenty per cent. What bill passed Congress in 1832 ? What did the President do with if? 3. What was the cause of the excitement in South Carolina? What did they say ? What did they threaten to do ? What did the President do ? What compromise was introduced by Mr. Clay 1 ADMINISTRATION. 175 4. In 1833, Jackson was re-elected President, and Martin Yan Buren of New York was chosen Yice-President. The summer of 1832, will long be remembered as the fatal time when the cholera spread desolation over the length and breadth of the land. During the summer of 1833, the President, accompanied by the Yice-President, and several of the secretaries, visited Philadelphia, New York, and some parts of ISTew England. The President was everywhere received with those demon- strations of respect which, notwithstanding differences of party, are ever due to the chief ruler of a free and happy people. General Jackson had many warm friends, and some bitter opponents. He was remarkably firm in his opinions, and was often called " Old Hickory." In December, 1835, a vast conflagration occurred in New York. The weather was intensely cold, so that the fire-en- gines could do but little in arresting the fearful progress of the flames. Breaking out in the business parts of the city, where vast warehouses were filled with rich goods, in a few hours, property to the amount of millions of dollars was swept away by the devouring flames. In April, 1836, Congress passed an act establishing the Territory of Wisconsin. In June, 1836, Arkansas and Michigan were admitted into the union as states. 4. For what was the summer of 1832 noted 1 What is said of the great fire of 1835? When were Arkansas and Michigan admitted into the union % 176 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 5. On the Uh. of March, 1837, Martin Yan Buren of New York was inaugurated President of the United States. On the morning of the inauguration. General Jackson, the ex-President, and Mr. Yan Buren, were driven to the capitol in an elegant carriage, made from the timber of the frigate Constitution. There was a striking difference in the personal appearance of the ex-President and the President elect. General Jackson, tall and unbending, firm and stern in manner. Mr. Yan Buren, the bland and polished gentle- man, and at the same time the talented diplomatist. General Jackson never left any one in doubt of his decided opinion, and few in political life have had stronger friends or more bitter enemies. A new President is always expected to deliver an address before he takes the oath of office. Mr. Yan Buren's inaugural address was very conciliating in its tone. 6. During Mr. Yan Buren's administration, occurred one of the most unfortunate depressions in the money market ever known. In the city of ]N'ew York, within two months, there were more than two hundred and fifty failures of large mercantile houses ; and within a few weeks, more than twenty thousand individuals, depending upon their labor for their daily bread, were thrown out of employ. It was indeed a fearful time. No one durst trust his neighbor. Men, who 5. Who was the next President? What is said of General Jackson and Martin Van Buren? 6. What unfortunate event occurred during Mr. Van Buren's adminis- tration ? What is further said of the scarcity of money ? VAN buren's administration. 177 believed tliey were rich for life at night on retiring, awoke bankrupts and without a home in the morning. The banks of 'Nqw York city ceased to redeem their notes in specie, and this was followed by the suspension of the country banks. A large meeting of the citizens of ISTew York was held, and a committee of fifty was appointed to proceed to Washington to petition the government for relief. Some little relief was obtained, but an immense deal of suf- fering prevailed in New York and the country generally. Various causes were assigned for this public and wide- spread distress, among which were over action in business, speculation in unproductive lands, the great fire of Decem- ber, 1835, &c. 7. An event occurred during this administration which called forth expressions of disapprobation from good people all over the land. This was a duel, fought with rifles, near the city of Washington, between Messrs. Cilley and Graves. On the third fire, Mr. Cilley fell mortally wounded. What poor, weak-minded men ! In the bitterness of party strife, they madly hated each other's life. So indignant were the people, that a law against duelling was passed, making the punishment of any duelist hard labor in a penitentiary for ten years. If a challenge only were sent, the challenger was to be punished by imprisonment for five years. There are some really cowardly people who pride them- 7. What is said of the duel which occurred at this time ? What law was passed soon after ? 8* 178 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. selves on what tliey call their honor^ and who rudely insult a truly brave person who dares refuse a challenge to fight a duel. The law provides for these also. All who use scornful language to others for refusing to fight, were on conviction to be punished as above in a penitentiary for three years. I should be happy to see this last clause of the law en- forced. The truly brave and good are not afraid of the vile slanders of the wicked and scorners. Like a light zephyr on polished steel, slander leaves them untarnished. 8. In 1838, the banks resumed specie payment throughout the United States. This produced general joy among the people. In this year, a tremendous fraud was discovered, which had been carried on for years unsuspected by the govern- ment. The officer who collected customs at ]^ew York, Sam%iel Swa/rtwrnct^ had withheld large sums of money every year, for nine years, from the public revenue, without being discovered, until the amount was about a million and a quarter of dollars. , The examination of this disgraceful afiair, showed great corruption among public officers generally, which greatly alarmed good people who loved the faith and honor of the nation. The sixth census or numbering of the people of the United States, showed the number to be more than 17,000,000. When the Kevolution broke out, there were about 3,000,000. 8. What stupendous fraud was discovered in 1838 1 What is said of it % HARRISONS ADMINISTRATION. 179 CHAPTEE YII. HE whole nation was now interested in the choice of the next President. Greneral Wm. H. Harrison of Ohio was the whig candi- date, and Martin Yan Buren the democratic candidate. Never before did party spirit rise so high. Thousands of mass meetings were held, at which each party, endeavored to get the ascendancy. Tlie whigs spoke of General Harrison as the "hero of Tippecanoe," and many of their mass meetings were held in log cabins erected for the purpose. The whigs were at last successful. General Harrison was elected President by a greater majority than any President had since the days of Washington. On the 4tli of March, 1841, General Harrison entered upon the arduous duties of President of the United States- His inaugural address was well received. It contained a beautiful allusion to the Christian religion, and commended the interests of our beloved country to the good Being who has blessed us with civil and religious liberty. All things now seemed to combine for the nation's highest good, when sudden intelligence of the grievous illness of the 1. Who was chosen next President? 180 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. beloved ruler went like wild-fire over the land. This sad news was followed in a few hours by the astounding news of his death. 2. In one short month from the day when he promised to be faithful to God and to his country, on the portico of the capitol, he was lying in the presidential mansion cold and stiff in death. The mourning for this unexpected death was sincere all over the union. All parties joined in the universal grief, for all knew that a good as well as a great man was lost to the country forever. But we have the good example of the pious dead ever before us. From early life, General Harri- son had been trained by a pious mother to be a man of firm principles and strict integrity. When he last visited Yir- ginia, he occupied his mother's apartment, and pointed out the corner of the room where she sat to read her Bible, and where she taught him on his knees to pray " Our Father which art in Heaven." General Harrison never wandered from the strict path of duty. Until the close of his eventful life, love for the Bible and its teachings were evident to all. When he entered the President's house, he saw himself sur- rounded by all the elegant articles of furniture necessary for a President's mansion, but there was no Bible. He imme- diately bought one, as he said, the lest copy he could find, and paid for it out of the money appropriated by Congress for furniture, &c. 2. How long after his inauguration did he die ? ADMINISTRATION. " 181 3. On the death of Harrison, John Tyler, the Yice-Presi- dent, assumed the duties and office of President of the United States. This was in conformity with a provision in the consti- tution. During the extra session which had been called by Harrison, and which assembled shortly after his death, among the important measures which received the sanction of Con- gress, were two bills chartering a bank of the United States. Both of these bills were vetoed by the President. As the establishment of a bank of tlie United States was known to be one of the prominent and favorite measures of the whig party, the conduct of the President was denounced in the strongest terms. His cabinet, indignant at what they con- sidered his treachery towards his party, with one exception, resigned. 4. In 1842, a dispute with England, respecting the north- eastern boundary line, was negotiated between Mr. Webster and Lord Ashburton. This dispute at one time threatened to bring on a war between the two countries. 5. Domestic difficulties, of a somewhat serious character, occurred this year in the state of Khode Island. Some of the people were dissatisfied with the ancient charter, and said they were determined to have a new constitution and a new governor. They chose Thomas W. Dorr governor. They were strongly opposed by the remainder of the people, who 3. Who became President on the death of Harrison ? What bills did he veto? 4. What dispute was settled in 1842 1 5. What is said of the Dorr war 1 182 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. styled themselves the lam cmd order party ^ and called the others insurgents and rebels. Dorr was finally seized, and after being convicted of treason, was sentenced to imprison- ment for life. A great many people thought the sentence was very unjust, and in a short time Dorr was pardoned. 6. Texas was formerly a province of Mexico, although it was settled principally by emigrants from the United States. In 1834, the inhabitants said they had suffered the tyranni- cal government of the Mexicans as long as they would, anil declared themselves independent. After a long and bloody war, the Mexicans were defeated, and the independent Texans adopted a republican form of government. They soon after applied to the United States to be admitted into their glorious and happy union. A long discussion took place in the senate. One party strongly opposed the admission of Texas as a sister state, and the other as strongly advocated the annexation. It was not until 1845 that the question was finally settled, and Texas was admitted as one of the United States. James K. Polk of Tennessee, was next elected President, and George M. Dallas of Pennsylvania, Yice-President. 6. To what country did Texas formerly belong ? What did they apply to the United States for shortly after their independence ? folk's administration. 183 CHAPTEE YIII. WAR WITH MEXICO. — CAUSES, ETC. OE a long time, the Mexicans had committed outrages on the persons and property of American citizens. Notwithstanding de- mands were frequently made for redress, it was either refused or the subject evaded. In April, 1831, a friendly treaty was concluded between the two republics ; yet scarcely had two months passed away, before fresh outrages were perpetrated by the Mexicans. During Jackson's administration, a final demand for redress was made. The Mexicans promised the difficulties should be settled, but their promises were never fulfilled. In 1840, several persons were appointed to ascertain what claims of our citizens against the Mexican government should be paid. The claims declared good by them amounted to a very large sum. Of this sum the Mexicans solemnly declared they would pay a certain portion every three months, until within five years, the whole should be paid. This promise they 1. What had the Mexicans done for a long time 1 Did they refuse to settle these claims ? 184: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. also failed to fulfil, and this violation of their word was one, although not the principal cause of the war. 2. The original boundary line of Texas was the river Nueces, but shortly after she had separated from Mexico, she declared the Rio Grande should be its boundary. The territory between these two rivers was therefore claimed by both governments. 3. Mexico did not have very friendly feelings towards Texas. So when Texas was admitted into the union. General Taylor was sent with a few troops to the frontiers of Texas, to drive back the Mexicans if they should attempt to invade the country. Six months after. General Taylor received orders from his government to cross the disputed territory, and take up his position near the Eio Grande. This the Mexicans considered a declaration of w^ar on our part. On the 3d of May, the enemy, taking advantage of General Taylor's absence at Point Isabel, commenced firing on the fort. The day was the Sabbath, but its holy quiet was disturbed by the roar of cannon. Day after day, until the following Saturday, shots and shells were flying over the little band shut up in that solitary fort. They were sur- rounded by the enemy and far away from their homes, and yet they were determined to defend the fort as long as one of them remained alive. 2. What was the original boundary of Texas ? 3. Why was Taylor sent to the frontier of Texas 1 When he crossed the river what did Mexico so consider it 1 When did they attack fort Brown ? WAR WITH MEXICO. 185 General Taylor at Point Isabel heard the roar of can- non, and knew that his little garrison at fort Brown were in danger. He determined to go to their relief, and on the 7th, commenced his march. On the next day, he saw the enemy drawn up in order of battle at a place called Palo Alto. 4. Their troops stretched a mile and a half across the plain. A little in advance were stationed a thousand lancers. These lancers were on fleet horses, and held in their hands a long lance, with a little flag flying near the end, so that the enemy could not guard against the blow. Nothing daunted, our troops were drawn up in battle array, and the contest commenced. We do not love to talk about battles. There is something awful in the fearful car- nage of the battle-field. The roar of the cannon and the quick, sharp report of the musket, tell of suffering and death, of gaping wounds, shattered limbs, and ghastly corpses. As the sun went down on the field of blood, the battle ceased. Our little army encamped on the field among their dead and dying companions. With 2,300 men, General Taylor had beat 6,000. The weary night wore slowly away. The ground was strewed with the dead and dying, and their blood crimsoned the soil. On every side were heard the cries and groans of the dead and dying. 5. On the coming morning, Taylor determined to press on 4. What did Taylor determine to do ? What battle was fought on the 8th ? 5. What battle was fought on the 9th ? 186 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. to the relief of his brave comrades in Fort Brown. But another bloody battle was before him. The enemy now oc- cupied a strong position, and determined to dispute every step of his progress. As our troops came up, the battle of Kesaca de la Palma commenced. 6. The whole army fought with unparalleled bravery, led on by officers as brave as ever trod a battle-field. One battery, advantageously posted by the enemy, kept up a con- stant and fearful fire on our troops. Taylor saw that it must be taken, and ordered Captain May to charge the battery with his dragoons. May wheeled on his steed, and said to his followers, ''men, we must take that lattery ^ They needed no further command, but on they rushed, those eighty-two stern riders, headed by their fearless commander. One fear- ful discharge tore through their ranks, stretching nearly one- half their number on the ground, but still on they dashed, riding down the artillerymen at their pieces, and bursting through the Mexican lines. The battery was taken ; and as a wild hurrah went up from our army, they rushed furiously on, scattering the enemy like chaff before them. For two days the little garrison at Fort Brown had listened to the fight, and now as they saw the horsemen dashing wildly over the plain, they mounted the rampart, and sent up long and loud the shout of victory. The victory was decided and complete. 6. Who did Taylor tell to take the battery? Did he do it? What city did General Taylor take ? WAR WITH MEXICO. 187 7. A few days after, General Taylor took possession of the city of Matamoras, without resistance. Here he was com- pelled to remain for some months, not being able from the want of troops and supplies, to follow up his success. In the meantime, the enemy, under General Ampudia, had concentrated a large force at the city of Monterey. This city was strongly fortified, both by nature and art. The streets were narrow, and the roofs of the houses flat. At the west stood the Bishop's Palace, a fort sti'ongly fortified ; on the north, a strong and massive citadel, and on the east, three forts, while the river San Juan flowed along the east and south. These defences were manned by more than ten thousand men. 8. General Taylor, nothing daunted, determined to take the city. Dividing his army into three divisions, one under General Worth, one under General Twiggs, and a third under General Butler, he commenced the attack on the evening of the 21st of September. The battle raged for three days. Hand to hand they fought along the narrow streets of the city, every door, window, and house-top, pouring down upon them a leaden storm of death, yet still they pressed on, driving everything before them, until the city was carried, and the stars and si/ripes waved in triumph from its walls. 9. For eight weeks there was now a pause in the tide of war. In the meantime, General Santa Anna had concentrated 7. Describe the city of Monterey. 8. What did General Taylor do ? 9. Where did Santa Anna next concentrate his forces ? 188 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. twenty thousand men at San Luis Pctosi. In February, Taylor received small re-inforcements ; but so many of bis men bad been withdrawn, that his troops now numbered but five thousand men. Hearing that Santa Anna had made an attempt to take possession of a line of posts between himself and Matamoras, he determined to meet him. Taking his position at Buena Yista, on the morning of the 22d of Fe- bruary, he drew up his little army in battle array. 10. Santa Anna sent Taylor a message, telling him he was surrounded by twenty thousand men, and offering to treat him kindly if he would surrender. But the idea of sur- render never entered the head of the brave old General, and on the next day, the battle of Buena Yista commenced. Five thousand troops, most of whom a few months before were pursuing the quiet walks of civil life, now stood face to face with twenty thousand soldiers, the flower of the Mexican army. Notwithstanding the difference in numbers, our troops were still victorioiis. The victory was won, but many a brave man slept in death. 11. The intelligence of these glorious victories flew like wild-fire through the states. Congress passed a vote of thanks to General Taylor and the men under his command. In June, 1846, a dispute, which had long existed between Great Britain and America, was amicably settled. 10. What message did Santa Anna send, and how was it received 1 What was the result of the battle 1 11. What vote was passed by Congress? What dispute was settled in 1846? WAR WITH MEXICO. 189 On the 23d of November, General Scott was ordered to take command of the forces assembled in Mexico. Yera Cruz, being considered the key to the city of Mexico, his operations were to be directed against that place. Early in March, he landed with twelve thousand men near Yera Cruz. 12. On the 22d, he sent a summons to the Mexican com- mander to surrender the city, allowing ample time for all those who wished to leave the city to do so, and take with them whatever property they chose. The summons to sur- render was rejected, and shortly after the batteries opened on the city. From this time, until the morning of the 26th, the cannonading continued with but slight intermission. The spectacle was one of awful, terrific sublimity. The sky was filled with shells, curving in paths of fire through the air, while the roar of artillery, and the crash of falling houses, mingled with the shrieks of the wounded and terror- stricken. The sea was reddened with the glare of burning buildings and the broadsides of the ships. The castle of San Juan de Ulloa was girded with sheets of flame, as her cannon thundered forth their bold defiance. At length the governor of the city surrendered. As our troops paarched into the city, what a sight met their eyes ! buildings torn to atoms or blackened with the fire, while here and there were strewn When was General Scott ordered to take command ? Against what place were his operations directed ? Where did he land with his army ? 12. When did he commence the attack ? What is said of the spectacle ? Who were victorious "^ 190 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. torn and bleeding corpses. War is a fearful game. It marks its path with blood, and carries desolation to a thousand homes. 13. While our little army was winning laurels on land, our brave seamen were not idle. Many important posts both on the Pacific coast and the Gulf of Mexico, were taken by the navy. 14. On the 8th of April, ten days after the surrender of Yera Cruz, General Twiggs left the city, and took the road to Jalapa. On the the 12th, after having on the day before driven before them several thousand Mexican lancers, they discovered the enemy in front on the heights of a mountain, strongly fortified. On the 12th, General Scott arrived. The batteries of the enemy were so constructed along the ravines and on the mountains, that they could sweep with their balls every path by which they could be approached. These for- midable entrenchments were defended by fifteen thousand men, commanded by Santa Anna, while Scott could only bring six thousand men into action, and yet on the 18th, the enemy were driven from their position, and the victory gained. This was the battle of Cerro Gordo. In it more than three thousand prisoners were taken and two hundred and eighty-eight officers, among whom were five generals. On pressed the victorious troops. Jalapa, Ferote, and 13. What is said of the navy 1 14. When did Twiggs commence his march ? What was the result of the battle of Cerro Gordo 1 How many prisoners were taken ? What other places fell into their hands ? WAR WITH MEXICO. 191 Piiebla, falling in succession into their hands. At the latter place, General Scott remained most of the summer. 15. On the 8th of August, he commenced his march to- ward the city of Mexico. On the 10th, they came within sight of the lofty steeples and swelling domes of the city. The next day, they reached Ayotea, fifteen miles from Mexico. From this place to the city, every point was forti- fied. The army of Santa Anna numbered twenty-five thou- sand men, while ours was only nine thousand. The Mexicans fought on their own soil and in defence of their city. Step by step our army fought their way on towards the city. The bloody battles of Contreras and Cherubusco were gained. The army might now have easily marched into the city, but Scott, hoping the Mexicans would treat for peace, paused in his victorious career. On the 5th of September, finding they were fortifying the city contrary to agreement, Scott prepared to attack them. The enemy, with ten thou- sand men, had strongly entrenched themselves at Molino del Rey^ or " the king's mill." On the 8th, three thousand seven hundred men drove them from their position with terrific slaughter. On the 13th, the fortress of Chepultepec, guard- ing the city, was carried, and the batteries on the road lead- ing to the city, silenced. On the 14th of September, our forces, fighting hand to hand, entered the city. 15. When did Scott commence his march towards the city of Mexico ? What battles were fought between this place and the city "? How large was the Mexican army, and how large the American ? When did our troops enter the city ? 192 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 16. Here a terrific fire was poured upon them from batteries stationed in the streets, and from the house-tops, until night. During the night, Santa Anna left the city. The great ^laza^ in front of the cathedral and palace, was filled with our soldiers at daylight the next morning, and as the evening sun gilded the house-tops of the conquered city, the "stars and stripes" floated triumphantly over the capital of the Mexican republic. But where were the ten thousand gallant men who had welcomed Scott at Puebla? The bloody fields they passed over on their route to the city of Mexico, were the final resting-places of three thousand of these brave men. 17. No important battle took place after our troops had taken possession of the city of Mexico. A treaty of peace between Mexico and the United States, was signed February 2d, 1848. By this war the United States gained a vast amount of territory, (590,000 square miles) stretching from the Gulf of Mexico westward to the Pacific ocean, embracing a large portion of California, rich in mines of gold. The United States agreed to pay Mexico fifteen millions of dollars, and released the Mexicans from all previous claims. 18. Good people throughout the union hailed this treaty of peace with joy. They considered any amount of territory or national glory, gained at the fearful price of blood and 16. Who gained the victory ? How many American soldiers were lost on the route at the different battles ? 17. When was a treaty of peace signed 1 How many square miles did the United States gain by the Mexican war ? tayloe's administeation. 193 human life, as dearly purchased. Fleets, armies, and the untold miseries of even a victorious war, add not so much to the strength and prosperity of any people as the unnumbered blessings which cluster about a nation in time of happy peace. The discussion whether California should be admitted as a slave state, soon caused much angry debate, and many feared that great trouble and dissension would arise in our happy union by the addition of this new territory. 19. In March, 1849, General Zachary Taylor of Louisiana, was elected President of the United States, and Millard Fillmore of New York, was elected Yice-President. In June of this year, Mr. Polk, the ex-President, died. His last moments were calm and happy. 20. Shortly after the termination of the war with Mexico, a workman, digging in the soil of California, discovered some shining particles glittering in the sunlight. He was little dreaming of the grand discovery soon to oj^en upon him and the whole world, wdien the first spade full of what then seemed common dust was carelessly turned aside. Another and another shovel full of glittering dust at last attracted the workman's eye. This glittering dust was California gold. Gold in California was now the news of the day. East and west, north and south, the exciting story traveled as if on the electric telegraph. 18. What is said about the admission of California as a slave state into the union 1 19. Who was the next President 1 20. What was discovered in California 1 9 194 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. Gold Diggers in California. 21. The poor, down-trodden thousands in Europe, hurried to the land of gold. The swarthy Asiatics also came by thousands, while from every state in the union, from teeming city and town and hamlet, on poured the tide of emigration to the new land of promise. In a very short time, a mighty state sprung up on the shores of the Pacific. Cities and towns seemed to rise and fall as if by magic, for in a few hours, destructive fires often threatened to burn a whole city. Many were made rich by the discovery of this valuable metal. Thousands, less successful, returned home with emjpty pockets and broken constitutions, while thousands, still more unfortunate, sunk homeless, penniless, and friendless, on the golden soil for their bed, where they breathed their last DEATH OF GENERAL TAYLOR. 195 breath far away from tlie happy and peaceful land of their birth. 22. San Francisco is the principal city in California. Its harbor is one of the best in the world, and is now constantly crowded with shipping. Millions of dollars in gold from California have been coined at the United States mint, and sent abroad, since the poor laborer turned aside the first spade full of shining dust in 1848. 23. In August, 1819, a constitution was formed, in which slavery was prohibited. The people soon after asked that California should be admitted into the union as a state. Then followed a long and angry discussion all over the states. The slave holding states wished to have California admitted as a slave state, and the free states held an opposite view. Some of the states even w^ent so far as to threaten to separate from the glorious sisterhood of states, if California came in as a free state. 21. In the midst of the strife, the alarming intelligence of the dangerous illness of General Taylor startled the nation, and instantly the contest ceased for the time. Tlie illness of the President increased raj)idly, and on the evening of the 9th of July, the good and noble old man breathed his last in the President's House. 22. What is said of San Francisco ? 23. What is said of the constitution the Californians formed 1 24. What happened in the midst of the strife about the admission of California ] 25. What were General Taylor's last words ? 196 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. 25. His last words were, " I am willing to die / / heme done my dutyP General Taylor's services in the armj, his good sense and honesty, his firmness and integrity, had en- deared him to the grateful hearts of the American people. Grief bowed their heads, and with saddened hearts they for the second time, in a brief space, followed the inanimate form of a Chief Magistrate to the quiet grave. 26. Mr. Fillmore, the Yice-President, now occupied the vacant presidential chair. Immediately the strife and fierce debate in the senate re- commenced. At last some of the contested bills were passed, but others, equally important, were still in debate. One bill was passed which abolished the slave trade in the District of Columbia. Another bill, called the Fugitive Slave Bill, was passed, after much discussion of no very pleasant nature. By this law, a runaway slave, who shall take refuge in the free states, is re-captured and returned to his master. 27. On the 31st of March, 1850, Hon. J. C. Calhoim died in Washington. He was one of the great men of the nation, noted for his oratory, and a man of strong and highly culti- vated mind. At the next presidential election, General Franklin Pierce of New Hampshire, was chosen President, and "Wm. P. King of South Carolina, "Vice-President. What is said of General Taylor ? 26. Who now became President 1 What bills were passed in the Senate ? What is said of the Fugitive Slave Bill ? 27. What is said of John C. Calhoun % DEATH OF CLAY AND WEBSTER. 197 28. In 1852, tlae nation was called upon to mourn the loss of one of lier noblest sons. The voice of Henry Clay, whose eloquent tones had so often rung through the land, was silent in death. Scarcely a year rolled away, when the nation was startled with the intelligence that another of her great men had been called to his final home. Daniel Webster, whose great mind had commanded the respect and admiration of the world, was consigned to the tomb almost within sight of the spot where the pilgrim fathers first landed. 198 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. GOJ^CLUSION. UR country's early history is involved in no obscurity. It does not commence so far back as to be enshrouded in the darkness which envelopes the origin of many of the na- tions of the old world. Each step of its wondrous jD^ogress, from the time after the voyage of Columbus, the first rude cabin of the white man was reared on our shores to the present, can be clearly and distinctly traced. In the preceding pages, we have traced that progress through the rapidly changing scenes of its eventful career. We have seen, now and then, a solitary ship of a few hun- dred tons burthen, braving the storms of the ocean, and here and there, scattered along the Atlantic coast, a little settle- ment. Beyond them stretched the dark forests of an almost boundless wilderness, while at their feet dashed the waves of a broad ocean, whose waters were unwhitened by the sails of commerce. Yet a few more years pass away, and we see that vast wilderness brought under the sway of civilization — towns and cities springing up in every direction, and rich fields of waving grain and orchards of luscious fruit, telling of the CONCLUSION. 199 bounteous productions of the soil. On the soil, where but a short time ago no white man was to be seen, now dwell in peace and plenty a population of three millions, men inured to toil, founders of a mighty nation, and mothers of that strict integrity and purity of character, which made their children the heroes of an heroic age. And now events crowd each other in rapid succession. The dark and terrible scenes of the revolution move before us. The land is darkened by the clouds of war, but gradually as the clouds roll away, we behold, not thirteen subject colo- nies, but thirteen emancipated states, free and independent. Scarcely eighty years have passed away before that infant nation stands foremost in the rank of nations, consisting not of thirteen states, but thirty one, washed by two great oceans, and teeming with a population of twenty millions. Its ocean waters are whitened by the sails of commerce, bringing the rich products of every clime into its ample' storehouses. On its rivers and lakes are heard the pantings of steam ; over cultivated fields, through dark forests, along the verge of frowning precipices, the steam-car rushes along its iron track with fearful rapidity. Manufactories are scattered all over the land, and everywhere are seen indications of happiness and prosperity. What is the cause of this unparalleled prosperity ? Why is it that our nation should thus startle the world with its rapid growth, its bold and daring acts, and its strength ? The peculiar position in which the early settlers of this country were placed, developed all their energy of character 200 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. and all their strength of mind. They were comj^elled to toil early and late for their daily bread. In their log-houses their furniture, much of it the work of their own hands, was of the plainest kind, and their food, cooked by the hands of wives and daughters, of the most simple character. Labor was not then considered a disgrace as some foolishly think it at the present day, whose fathers have grown rich by honest toil. Cowardice could form no part of their cha- racter, for they were surrounded by savage foes and often compelled to light for their lives. Thus toiling on from day to day, surrounded by dangers, they felt and acknowledged their dependence on God. Far away from the workshops and the luxuries of the old world, their necessities compelled them to develop the resources of the soil, and to tax their ingenuity to supply many of the comforts of life. A vast continent was before them, to be reclaimed from its wilderness state, and themselves and families to be guarded by their own industry against future want. Their children nursed a spirit of freedom and independence in their mother's milk ; as they played beneath the old trees and gazed upon the towering mountains and the dark forests, and saw around them everywhere the beauty and grandeur of nature, there was impressed on their young minds, aye, blended with their very being, lessons never to be forgotten. Feeling the importance of a general diffusion of intelli- gence and education, they made careful provisions for learn- ing, and laid the foundations of institutions whose blessing's have been enjoyed by succeeding generations. CONCLUSION. 201 In 1637, a college was located at Newtown, Massachnsetts, the name of wliich place lias since been changed to Cam- bridge. It was named after Mr. John Harvard, a minister of Charlestown, who bequeathed nearly four thousand dollars to the institution. In 1692, W^illiam and Mary's college, in Yirginia, was founded by the sovereigns whose name it bears. Yale col- lege, in Connecticut, was commenced in lYOO. The college was begun at Saybrook, but in 1717, it was removed to ]^ew Haven. It was named after Elihu Yale, its principal bene- factor. The college at Princeton, 'New Jersey, called i!Tassau Hall, was founded in 1738. At the south, edacation was more particularly confined to the higher classes, but at the north, especially in New Eng- land, provisions were made for the education of all. Li Connecticut, every town numbering fifty families, was ob- liged to maintain a good school, and every county town, a grammar-school. Large tracts of land were appropriated for the support of schools, and every family was compelled by law to give their children instruction. Here, then, we see the cause of the success and prosperity of our country. Children inherited from their parents a spirit of self-reliance, and a fearless energy which would be daunted by no difiiculty, and would allow no labor, however arduous, to turn them from their purpose ; and when these energies were rightly directed by the proper cultivation of the mind, the results were such as to astonish the world. The youthful Franklin, in his brother's printing-office, 202 HISTOEY OF THE UNITED STATES. toiled early and late, and yet in the midst of his labors he allowed no opportunity to escape for acquiring knowledge. At length he resolved to go to Philadelphia. He arrived there poor, but determined to succeed. Being hungry, he bought some small loaves of bread. Giving one to a poor woman, he stowed away one under each arm, and eating another, he walked along one of the principal streets. You will say such a man ought to have succeeded. He did succeed, and gradually worked his way up until he be- came one of the greatest men of the age, and one of the most profound philosophers the world had ever seen. At this time, but very little was known about electricity, yet Dr. Franklin believed that the electric spark, produced by the Ley den jar, was of the same character as atmospheric lightning. To test this idea, he constructed a kite, by stretch- ing a large silk handkerchief over two sticks in the form of a cross. On the appearance of a storm, he went into a field and raised the kite. Soon a dense cloud passed over the place where he was, apparently charged with lightning. Touching his knuckle to a key he had attached to the cord, sparks were produced in abundance. This experiment took place in 1752. In accordance with this theory of electricity, lightning-rods were constructed, which serve to convey the electric fluid to the ground, without injury to the buildings on which they were placed. Dr. Franklin was at one time minister to France. Here, where his society was courted by kings and the great men of CONCLUSION. 203 the earth, he maintained his republican style of dress and his simplicity of character. This simplicity of character and fearless energy were cha- racteristic of the great men of the revolution. John Adams, when President of the United States, met one day, when riding out with a friend, a poor negro. The negro uncovered his head and bowed. Mr. Adams did the same. Said the friend, " I never expected to see the President of the United States take off his hat to a black man !" The President replied, " he bowed to me first, and you certainly would not wish the President of the United States to be less polite than a black man." It has been said " that necessity is the mother of inven- tion." This certainly was true in our own country. You know that a large proportion of all the cotton used in the world is raised in the southern states. Growing the cotton is a vast source of wealth to a portion of our country, and manufacturing it into a variety of fabrics, gives employment to a great number of persons. At one time the process of preparing cotton for market was so tedious, that but very little was raised. The seeds had to be picked out by hand, and this was a very slow process. Eli Whitney was one day engaged in sawing a board, and on the board was some cotton ; as the teeth of the saw caught it and drew it through the cut, the seeds were entirely cleaned out. Whitney threw down his saw and thought about what he had seen. The result of his thinking was the construction, on the same principle of the 204: HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. saw drawing the cotton tlirougli a board, of the Cotton Gin, which is in use at the present time. This was in 1794. By this gin, cotton could be cleaned with great rapidity. Nearly all great discoveries have been made by persons observing small things. Thus all should cultivate habits of thought and observation. There is no civilized country in the world which can compare with America in its towering mountains and vast lakes and rivers. On the east a vast ocean separates it from the coun- tries of the old world. This ocean and these great rivers, extending hundreds of miles into the interior, were at one time only traversed by sailing vessels. When there were adverse winds or storms, the voyages were long and tedious. Sometimes persons were two or three weeks in going from 'New York to Albany. Some more sure and rapid mode of communication was necessary. The use of steam to propel boats, early engaged the atten- tion of several Americans. Fitch constructed a boat which was propelled through the water at the rate of four miles an hour. Kobert Fulton, another American, in 1803, launched a small boat on the river Seine in Paris. The boat was pro- pelled by steam, and the experiment was entirely successful. Fulton now returned to America, and constructed another boat to run on the Hudson river. The boat was one hundred feet long, twelve feet wide, and seven feet deep. Almost every one laughed at Fulton, and called his boat " Fulton's folly." But Fulton toiled on, determined to succeed. And he did succeed. At length the engine was placed in the CONCLUSION. 205 boat. In the summer of 1807, everything was ready for the trial. A large crowd assembled on the wharf to laugh at Fulton and enjoy his defeat. Slowly the boat ^moved from the dock into the middle of the stream, and then stopped. Fulton found something out of order in the machinery, and immediately remedied it. Again the boat moved, and slowly, yet strongly, plowed its way through the waters. Fulton's triumph was complete. The time to Albany was thirty-six hours. 'Now the same distance is accomplished by magnificent steamboats, four hundred feet long, in nine hours and a half. What a change in about forty years ! Now magnificent steamers ply on all our rivers, and vast steamships cross the ocean in every direction. Cars, drawn by powerful steam- engines, running on iron tracks, traverse the country in almost every direction, at the rate of thirty miles an hour. But even this speed was not fast enough for our go-ahead people ; and the lightning, first drawn from the clouds by Franklin with his little kite, must be made to do the bidding of man. For many years, electricity had been used as a means of communicating signals from one place to another. In 1837, Professor Morse of the United States patented an electro- magnetic telegraph, which he claims to have invented in 1832. This was the first telegraph which recorded its mes- sage, and thus dispensed with the uncertain attention of an assistant. ISTow, by means of the telegraph, w^e can send a message thousands of miles in a second of time. Standing in New York, the lightning, generated by galvanic batteries, 206 HISTORY OF THE UNITED STATES. conveys our thouglits along the iron wires of the telegraph to Boston, Albany, Cincinnati, or wherever those wires m^j run. How wonderful ! We have not space to tell of the innumerable impro^^e- ments which have been made in this country in every depa) t- ment of life. In the arts and sciences, and in mechanical skill, the world is indebted to the United States for some of the greatest triumphs of the age. Here, too, in our young country, have lived and died some of the purest patriots, some of the most profound statesmen and eloquent orators, the world has ever seen. May our country go on in peace and prosperity. As year after year rolls away, and the boundaries of civilization are increased, it should be the prayer of every son and daughter of America that no sectional strife may dismember our union, but that God, who watched over us in infancy as a nation, may still guide and direct us. FlNdS '-' it^^.^^ #§4*) 1^ ^f :^ X-* .'^ ..^^ .Oo A^'' ?'^ * a 1 \ '^ X^^ 0" -■ .■■*^ "OO '*;^2^^ / ^, %. .^^' LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 011 526 995 1 mm lifMm