This course explores the history of the United States from 1491 to 1877 by analyzing key people, events, and ideas that shaped the nation's early development. They will examine topics such as European exploration and migration, the American Revolution and Constitution, the Jeffersonian and Jacksonian eras, antebellum reform movements, the Civil War and Reconstruction, and westward expansion. Throughout the course, students will develop historical thinking skills, construct evidence-based arguments, apply historical reasoning processes, and evaluate how the United States has upheld its founding ideals. Additionally, students will practice essay writing and source analysis. This is the first course in a two-part series that prepares students to take the AP United States History exam.