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Glossary of the 1800s

In some ways the 19th century had its own language, as terms and events which would have been common knowledge 150 years ago have faded into history. On this page are links to definitions which will help to broaden your understanding of the times.
Abolitionist
Definition of abolitionist.
Antebellum Era
Definition of Antebellum Era.
Clipper ship
Definition of clipper ship.
Daguerreotype
Definition of daguerreotype.
Dime Novel
Definition of dime novel.
Fenian Movement
Definition of Fenian Movement.
Franklin Expedition
Definition of the Franklin Expedition.
Fugitive Slave Act
Definition of Fugitive Slave Act.
Knights of Labor
Definition of Knights of Labor
Know-Nothing Party
Definition of the Know-Nothing Party.
Land League
Definition of Land League.
Manifest Destiny
Definition of Manifest Destiny.
Mountain Men
Definition of mountain men.
Opium War
Definition of Opium War.
Oregon Trail
Definition of Oregon Trail.
Penny post
Definition of penny post.
Santa Fe Trail
Definition of Santa Fe Trail.
Scrimshaw
Definition of scrimshaw.
Transportation (as Punishment)
Definition of transportation as punishment
Van Diemen's Land
Definition of Van Diemen's Land.
Whig Party
Definition of the Whig Party.
Young Ireland
Definition of Young Ireland.

Explore 19th Century History

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