United States - Federal republic

The history of the United States began in 1776, when the thirteen British colonies declared their independence. This was not only a political secession, but also laid the foundations for a new form of government, a federal republic. On July 4, the Declaration of Independence was adopted, written mainly by Thomas Jefferson. The document stated that all men are born equal and have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The philosophical foundations of the declaration came from the ideas of the Enlightenment, especially the thoughts of John Locke. 1775–1783 – Revolutionary War: The war grew out of protests against English oppression, especially taxes and tariffs. George Washington led the American troops, who won a decisive victory at Yorktown in 1781. The Peace of Paris in 1783 officially recognized the independence of the United States. 1787 The US Constitution became the world's first written, modern republican constitution. It introduced the separation of powers: legislative (Congress), executive (President), and judicial (Supreme Court). The essence of the federal system: the states are independent in certain matters, but they jointly govern the country. The initial right to vote was limited to landowning men. It gradually expanded in the 19th century: property taxes were abolished, and women and African Americans were given the right to vote. The Bill of Rights (Declaration of Rights) ensured basic freedoms in 1791. In the 19th century, the USA expanded westward, forming its present territory. The Civil War (1861–1865) erupted from disputes over slavery and states' rights. In the 20th century, the USA became a world power, while strengthening its democratic institutions through internal reforms.

The US monetary system was born during the Revolutionary War and has been continuously evolving ever since. 1776: The US declared its independence. Continental dollar: Paper money issued by Congress to finance the war. It was not backed by gold or silver. It quickly depreciated - hence the saying: "Not worth a Continental." 1792: The "Coinage Act" was passed, which created the US coinage system. The Philadelphia Mint was founded - the first official minting institution. The US dollar was introduced as the official currency. The first coins were made of silver and gold, for example: Half dime (half a dime), Silver dollar (silver dollar), Eagle (gold coin, 10 dollars). 1861: The first "greenback" banknotes appeared - green paper money. 1913: The Federal Reserve System, the central bank of the US, was established. Its task is to issue money and ensure the stability of the economy. Banknotes are known as “Federal Reserve Notes”. Banknotes: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 dollar denominations. Portraits of famous presidents (e.g. George Washington, Abraham Lincoln). Iconic buildings on the back (e.g. White House, Lincoln Memorial). Coins: 1 cent (penny), 5 cents (nickel), 10 cents (dime), 25 cents (quarter), 50 cents (half dollar), 1 dollar. The place of minting is indicated by a letter: P (Philadelphia), D (Denver), S (San Francisco), W (West Point). Rare and collectibles: 1933 $20 gold coin: One of the most valuable American coins. 1804 silver dollar: Sold for millions of dollars at auction. 1913 Liberty Head nickel: Only 5 were made – all of them are rarities.