Pennsylvania

Timeline of Events

1681: William Penn founds the colony of Pennsylvania as a haven for Quakers.
1776: Pennsylvania delegates sign the Declaration of Independence.
1787: Pennsylvania participates in the Constitutional Convention and ratifies the Constitution.
1793: Whiskey Rebellion: Farmers in western Pennsylvania resist federal whiskey tax.
1803: Pennsylvania becomes the first state to abolish slavery.
1861: Pennsylvania contributes significantly to the Union effort in the Civil War.
1863: Battle of Gettysburg: Union victory marks a turning point in the Civil War.
1915: Pennsylvania ratifies the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote.

Important Legislation

1780: Gradual Abolition Act: Gradual abolition of slavery in Pennsylvania.
1834: Public School Act: Establishes a free public education system in Pennsylvania.
1901: Child Labor Act: Restricts the employment of children in factories.

Important Court Cases

Marbury v. Madison (1803): Establishes the principle of judicial review.
Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857): Rules that slaves are not citizens and cannot sue in federal court.
Plessy v. Ferguson (1896): Upholds the “separate but equal” doctrine, allowing segregation in public facilities.

Major Industry

Agriculture: Pennsylvania was a major agricultural producer, particularly of wheat, corn, and rye.
Mining: Pennsylvania had abundant coal and iron ore deposits, making it a center of industry during the Industrial Revolution.
Manufacturing: Pennsylvania became a major manufacturing center, producing textiles, iron, steel, and machinery.

Impact on the Rest of the Country

Pennsylvania played a vital role in the founding of the United States as a haven for religious freedom and a leader in the abolition of slavery.
The state’s industrial development fueled economic growth and innovation throughout the country.
Pennsylvania’s political influence, as a swing state in presidential elections, has often shaped the direction of national politics.

Carson West