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From the first European explorers to the aftermath of the Civil War; American History I is the origin story of our nation. Understand the ideas, conflicts, and people that shaped the United States.
Learn where America came from to understand where it's going
Written by the Flying Prep Team
Reviewed by Alex Stone, who earned 99 credits via CLEP & DSST
Anyone interested in American history can succeed! If you've taken a high school US History course, you have a foundation. History lovers, political junkies, and curious citizens all do well with proper preparation.
A score of 50 earns credit at most institutions
Scores of 60+ show excellent historical knowledge
CLEP scores are valid for 20 years
This section covers Native American civilizations, European exploration, and the establishment of colonial societies from 1492-1763. You'll examine the complex interactions between indigenous peoples, Europeans, and Africans that shaped early American development.
This section examines the causes of the American Revolution, the war itself, and the immediate aftermath from 1763-1789. You'll analyze how colonists transformed from loyal British subjects to independent Americans through political resistance and military conflict.
This section covers the creation of the Constitution, ratification debates, and the establishment of the federal government under Washington and Adams. You'll understand how the Founders addressed the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation while creating lasting governmental institutions.
This section examines the presidencies of Jefferson, Madison, and Monroe, including westward expansion, the War of 1812, and evolving democratic ideals. You'll explore how territorial growth and foreign conflicts shaped American national identity.
This section covers the transformation of American economy and society from 1815-1840, including industrialization, transportation improvements, and social reform movements. You'll analyze how rapid economic change created new social classes and reform impulses.
This section examines the expansion of slavery, resistance movements, and growing sectional conflicts from 1820-1860. You'll understand how debates over slavery's expansion ultimately threatened the survival of the Union.
This section covers the causes of Civil War, major military campaigns, and early Reconstruction policies through 1877. You'll analyze how the conflict transformed American society, politics, and constitutional interpretation while examining the incomplete revolution in civil rights.
Preparing your assessment...
1 month
For history enthusiasts or those with strong background.
~12 hours/week
2 months
Recommended for most students.
~7 hours/week
3 months
Steady progress for busy schedules.
~4 hours/week
Two valid IDs, one government-issued with photo and signature. No study materials or electronics.
Retakes available after 3 months. Review your score report for weak areas.
Fewer than you think! Focus on understanding significance and sequence rather than exact dates.
No! The exam covers social, economic, and cultural history too. Reform movements, daily life, and intellectual developments matter.
Know major battles and their significance, but detailed military history isn't heavily emphasized.
If you understand the periods well, you can usually figure out context. The sources aren't obscure.
This exam covers through 1877 (end of Reconstruction). US History II picks up from there.
Yes. Don't neglect the period before independence; colonial development is important.
Relations with Native Americans appear throughout. Know major policies and their impacts.
Typically 50, but verify with your institution.
Moderate difficulty. The content is familiar to most Americans but breadth requires systematic study.
Most schools award 3 semester hours for passing.
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