In APUSH (Advanced Placement U.S. History), “commercial development” generally refers to the growth of trade, business, and economic networks in the United States, especially during the early 19th century. Here’s a clear breakdown of what it usually entails:
Definition
Commercial development is the expansion of markets, trade, and commerce in the U.S., involving the production, buying, and selling of goods for profit. It reflects a shift from subsistence farming and local economies to a market-oriented economy.
Key Features in APUSH Context
- Transportation Improvements
- Canals (e.g., Erie Canal, 1825)
- Roads and turnpikes
- Steamboats and early railroads
- These innovations lowered costs and connected regional markets.
- Market Revolution
- Farmers and artisans increasingly produced goods for sale rather than just for local use.
- Rise of wage labor and factory systems, especially in the North.
- Banking & Finance
- Growth of banks and credit systems facilitated investment in business and infrastructure.
- Regional Specialization
- North: industrial manufacturing
- South: cash crops like cotton (linked to global markets)
- West: grain and livestock
- Rise of Entrepreneurs
- Individuals invested in business ventures, including manufacturing and trade.
- Impact on Society
- Urbanization as people moved to work in factories and trade hubs
- Expansion of consumer goods availability
- Increase in social and economic inequality
Examples in APUSH
- Growth of textile mills in New England
- Development of cotton plantations in the South
- Erie Canal linking Great Lakes to NYC
- Steamboat commerce on the Mississippi River
In APUSH, “commercial development” refers to the growth of trade, business, and markets in the U.S., especially during the early 19th century. Key points include:
Definition: Expansion of markets, trade, and commerce, shifting from subsistence farming to a market-oriented economy.
Key Features:
- Transportation improvements: Erie Canal, roads, steamboats, early railroads.
- Market Revolution: Goods produced for sale, rise of wage labor and factories.
- Banking & Finance: More banks and credit to fund businesses.
- Regional Specialization: North—industry; South—cotton; West—grain/livestock.
- Entrepreneurs: Investment in business ventures.
- Societal Impact: Urbanization, more consumer goods, growing economic inequality.
Examples:
- Textile mills in New England
- Cotton plantations in the South
- Erie Canal commerce
- Steamboats on the Mississippi River
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What is commercial development apush