5.2 - Supporting Question 2

Compelling Questions: Did governments (USA and NC) work for the people or do we work for the governments?

Supporting Question 2: How did reformers try to stop the economic/political decline of NC?

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Introduction

There were several economic and political factors that may have contributed to the decline of North Carolina during this period. For example, the population declined from 1790-1830 as young people moved to other states. This is turn meant that real estate values fell and the tax base dwindled. Low population growth also meant NC would have less seats in the House of Representatives and in the Electoral College, negatively impacting the state’s political might. Advocates for reform in NC at the time came mostly from members of the wealthy, educated classes - those groups whose livelihoods were hurt by the shrinking economy in NC. They advocated for an overhaul of transportation, industry, and education in the state. Not everyone agreed about the need for reform and the direction it was to take. Here students will explore various ideas about the problems facing NC at the time and strategies for improvement.

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