Webpage Group 1
Presenting: The History of New Jersey
From 1776-1844
New Jersey is known as an industrial center because of all the factories, and production that contributes to the economy. Our group is going to be introducing New Jersey from 1776 up until 1844. Every event has a significant value to the state of New Jersey. In 1776, NJ declared itself as an independent state and joined the revolutionary war. The events aforementioned are going to talk about the Battles of Trenton & Princeton, the Bill of Rights, Dueling, Slavery, and the Constitution.
Enjoy exploring the history of New Jersey on our webpage
Content
1776 until 1844
The Battles of Trenton & Princeton
December, 1776
On Christmas night, General George Washington crossed the Delaware River in freezing cold, not knowing what was waiting for them in Trenton. The commander-in-chief was shouting "Press on boys!" as they were crossing the river. Washington prepared a surprise attack on the Hessian troops, he was known to notice even the slightest details. The American army was split into two groups, they were able to kill the British's commander and they captured hundreds of their men. After the American army returned from Pennsylvania, they marched again towards Princeton to defeat the British army overwhelmingly. The British forces lost most of New Jersey to the Americans.
The Bill of Rights
November 20, 1789
" How appropriate that New Jersey was the first state in the new nation to ratify the Bill of Rights. That distinction is a fitting keystone in our state’s 350-year history of serving as the crucible for American innovation, enterprise, and culture and our prized role on the forefront of American history: from the crossroads of the American Revolution to the cutting-edge of the 21st century. " Leonard Lance.
The Bill of Rights guarantees freedoms and liberty that are ingrained in the American psyche, and it is a source of pride that this opportunity has been preserved in both war and peace, as it outlines the rights of Americans with their democracy.
The Duel of Hamilton & Burr
July 11, 1804
Alexander Hamilton was on the ground and the only words he was able to say, "This is a mortal wound, doctor," looking as if he had already departed. David Hosack, who came with Hamilton to the duel, noticed that the bullet damaged a crucial part. Hamilton's lungs stopped functioning properly and he barely had a heartbeat. David noticed that the only way to revive is to put him on a boat back to New York.
The Second State Constitution
June 29, 1844
The Second State Constitution was adopted on June 29, 1844. It was adopted as the first constitution was written in a rush and lacked many features that were required to run the state after the Revolutionary War. The significant features of the 1844 constitution included shifting the power from the legislative branch to the executive branch, direct election of the governor by the people, and providing a few special powers to the governor. While the constitution was praised for aspects, it was critiqued by a few for eliminating the right to vote for women and African Americans, which was provided in the 1776 Constitution.