The SAT Subject Test in United States History assesses students' knowledge of American history, including key events, themes, and figures.
The story of the United States begins long before it was even called the United States! In the 1600s, European powers, especially England, established colonies along the Atlantic coast. Each region—New England, Middle, and Southern Colonies—developed its own culture, economy, and way of life. For example, New England focused on small towns and religious communities, while the South relied heavily on large plantations and enslaved labor.
The colonies were shaped by events like the arrival of the Pilgrims, the growth of representative government (think the Virginia House of Burgesses), and conflicts with Native American nations. Religious tolerance, economic opportunity, and the search for freedom were big motivators for early settlers.
Understanding colonial foundations helps us see how American culture, government, and conflicts began. The roots of democracy, debates over liberty vs. authority, and regional differences all started here.
The diversity and complexity of early America still influence issues today, like debates over religious freedom and regional identities.
A student compares the self-governance of the New England town meetings to modern local governments.
A teacher asks students to debate how colonial experiences with religious freedom influence U.S. laws today.
The early colonies laid the groundwork for American society, politics, and culture.