The document provides background information on several historical events and periods: 1) It discusses the 19th century Americas, including the Gold Rush that brought many migrants to the US for economic opportunities. 2) It covers the independence movements and establishment of governments in the US, Canada, and Latin America between the 18th-19th centuries. 3) It describes the Little Ice Age period in the 17th century and some potential causes like volcanic eruptions and changes in solar activity.