Analyze the political, economic, and ideological factors that led British colonists in America to declare independence.

Investigate citizen rights and responsibilities, participate in evidence-based discussions, and apply democratic procedures to address community and national challenges.

Understand the structure of the federal government, the system of checks and balances, and how constitutional amendments and judicial actions expand and protect individual rights over time.

Investigate the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, the Constitutional Convention, key constitutional compromises, and the structure of representative government.

Analyze how marginalized groups were oppressed in early American history and how diverse individuals and movements fought for equity, justice, and community advancement.

Compare colonial regional economies, examine trade networks and conflicts, analyze the central role of slavery in the economy, and evaluate standard of living and quality of life in the early U.S.