Welcome to American History Central
A digital encyclopedia of American History covering people, places, events, and topics from prehistory to the 20th Century. It is a resource for students, teachers, and anyone interested in learning more about the extraordinary history of the United States.
Browse content A to Z or by Time Period, Entries, Images, and Primary Documents. Content has also been aligned with the US History Standards to help students gain a deeper understanding of essential topics.
Welcome back for the 2026–2027 School Year!
New Encyclopedia entries
September 1776
British forces entered New York City, leading to the Battle of Harlem Heights. Despite the American victory in the battle, Thomas Knowlton was killed. Days later, the Great New York Fire of 1776 swept through the city, burning portions of it to the ground. Meanwhile, Nathan Hale was apprehended, accused of spying, and hanged.
American Party
The American Party was a political movement that grew out of the old Whig Party in the 1850s. It was known for its connection to the “Know Nothings,” its anti-immigration and anti-Catholic stance, and its involvement in the Presidential Election of 1856. The party declined as slavery in Western Territories became the dominant national issue.
Election of 1816
The Presidential Election of 1816 was the eighth election for the Office of President held in the United States. Democratic-Republicans James Monroe (President) and Daniel D. Tompkins (Vice President) won the election. Monroe’s win continued the Age of Jefferson, Jeffersonian Democracy, and the Virginia Dynasty.
XYZ Dispatches
The XYZ Dispatches were a record of diplomatic exchanges between American commissioners and intermediaries on behalf of French Foreign Minister Talleyrand. They revealed French demands for an apology, a loan, and bribes from the United States. Americans responded with outrage, pushing the nation into the Quasi-War with France.
Election of 1812
The Presidential Election of 1812 was the seventh election for the Office of President held in the United States. Democratic-Republican James Madison (President) and Elbridge Gerry (Vice President) won the election. Madison’s win continued the “Age of Jefferson,” “Jeffersonian Democracy,” and the Virginia Dynasty.
Short Hints and Stubborn Things
Pilgrims and Plymouth Colony
Pilgrim Fathers
They made the journey to the New World on the Mayflower in search of religious freedom and a new start. Upon arrival, they overcame incredible odds to survive, which altered the course of history. Over time, they have become known as the Pilgrim Fathers, and they are the Founding Fathers of New England.
The Mayflower
In 1620, the Mayflower made its historic voyage from England to America. Although we will never know the names of all passengers and crew, more than 100 of them have been documented, including Separatists, Planters, Servants, Workers, and Crewmembers.
Colonial America and the French and Indian War
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American Revolution and Revolutionary War
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The Shot Heard ‘Round the World — April 18–19, 1775
2025 marks the 250th Anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord and the outbreak of the American Revolutionary War. In preparation, we have compiled a significant number of resources that commemorate the Lexington Alarm, the Midnight Riders, and the battles — the Shot Heard ‘Round the World.
The New Jersey Campaign
Retreat Through New Jersey
After British forces captured Fort Lee on November 20, 1776, General George Washington and his army were forced to retreat through New Jersey and take refuge in Pennsylvania. It was a low point for Washington and the Continental Army, but it set the stage for the incredible Crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas Night.
Crossing the Delaware
On Christmas Night of 1776, George Washington and the Continental Army crossed the Delaware River during a brutal snowstorm. A few hours later, Washington attacked Trenton, defeated the Hessian garrison, and turned the tide of the war.
Battle of Trenton
The Continental Army, led by George Washington, launched a sneak attack on Hessian troops stationed in Trenton, New Jersey. The night before, on Christmas, Washington and his troops crossed the Delaware River undetected. A bold move that led to a resounding victory. It was Washington’s first major victory in the American Revolutionary War.
