Explore the Constitution, Bill of Rights, Amendments, and the complete timeline of American history
Understanding our history—both triumphs and tragedies—is essential to building a more just future. This timeline includes difficult moments because even sad history is important history.
View Full Interactive Timeline →Christopher Columbus arrives in the Americas, beginning European colonization and the devastating impact on Indigenous peoples.
First enslaved Africans brought to Jamestown, Virginia, beginning centuries of slavery in America.
The Continental Congress adopts the Declaration of Independence, declaring freedom from British rule.
The Constitution is signed in Philadelphia, establishing the framework of American government.
The first ten amendments to the Constitution are ratified, guaranteeing fundamental rights.
President Andrew Jackson signs the Indian Removal Act, leading to the Trail of Tears and forced displacement of Native Americans.
Supreme Court rules that Black people are not citizens and have no rights, intensifying tensions leading to Civil War.
The deadliest war in American history, fought over slavery and states' rights, resulting in over 600,000 deaths.
President Lincoln declares all enslaved people in Confederate states to be free.
Slavery is officially abolished throughout the United States.
Read the original texts that established American democracy and guaranteed fundamental rights