Overview of Period 7
Period 7 in APUSH encapsulates a transformative time in American history. It includes the rise of the United States as a global power, the impact of industrialization, the struggles for civil rights, the Great Depression, and two World Wars. This period is characterized by several key themes:
- Expansion and Imperialism
- Progressive Reform Movements
- The Great Depression
- World Wars and American Foreign Policy
- Social Change and Civil Rights Movements
Key Themes and Events
1. Expansion and Imperialism
The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, characterized by an eagerness to expand beyond its borders. The motivations behind American imperialism included:
- Desire for new markets for American goods
- Nationalism and competition with European powers
- Belief in the superiority of American culture and democracy
Key events include:
- The Spanish-American War (1898): This conflict resulted in the U.S. acquiring territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
- The Open Door Policy (1899): This policy aimed to ensure equal trading rights for all nations in China, reflecting America's interests in global trade.
- The Panama Canal (1914): The construction of the canal facilitated military and commercial shipping, solidifying U.S. influence in Central America.
2. Progressive Reform Movements
The Progressive Era (1890-1920) was a response to the challenges posed by industrialization and urbanization. Reformers sought to address issues such as corruption, labor conditions, and social justice. Key aspects include:
- Women's Suffrage Movement: Led to the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote.
- Labor Reforms: The establishment of labor laws to improve working conditions and reduce child labor.
- Social Gospel Movement: Aimed at applying Christian ethics to social problems, promoting social justice and humanitarianism.
Important figures:
- Theodore Roosevelt: His presidency was marked by progressive reforms, including trust-busting and the establishment of national parks.
- Jane Addams: A leader in social reform, she founded Hull House in Chicago, providing services for immigrants and the poor.
3. The Great Depression
The Great Depression (1929-1939) was a severe global economic downturn that had profound effects on American society and governance. Causes included:
- Stock Market Crash of 1929: A catastrophic event that initiated widespread economic decline.
- Bank Failures: A lack of public confidence led to bank runs and closures.
- Drought and Dust Bowl: Environmental factors exacerbated the economic crisis for farmers.
The government's response involved:
- Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal: A series of programs and policies aimed at economic recovery, including Social Security, public works projects, and financial reforms.
Key New Deal agencies include:
- Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)
- Public Works Administration (PWA)
- Social Security Administration (SSA)
4. World Wars and American Foreign Policy
The U.S. played a critical role in both World War I and World War II, marking its emergence as a global superpower.
- World War I (1914-1918): The U.S. entered the war in 1917, contributing to the Allied victory. The Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations sparked debates about isolationism versus internationalism.
- World War II (1939-1945): The attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 prompted the U.S. to join the Allies. Key events include:
- D-Day (1944): The Allied invasion of Normandy, a turning point in the war.
- Use of Atomic Bombs (1945): The bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki led to Japan's surrender and raised ethical questions about nuclear warfare.
5. Social Change and Civil Rights Movements
The period also witnessed significant social changes and the beginnings of the civil rights movement. The effects of the Great Migration, where African Americans moved north for better opportunities, led to increased racial tensions and the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural explosion celebrating African American culture.
Key developments include:
- The NAACP and its role: The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People worked to combat racial discrimination and secure civil rights.
- The New Deal and its impact on minorities: Although many programs were discriminatory, the period set the stage for future civil rights advancements.
Essential Vocabulary for Period 7
Familiarizing yourself with key terms will help in understanding the content and context of this period. Important vocabulary includes:
- Imperialism
- Progressivism
- New Deal
- Isolationism
- Civil Rights
Tips for Studying Period 7
To effectively study for Period 7 in APUSH, consider the following strategies:
- Utilize primary source documents: Analyze speeches, letters, and government documents to gain a deeper understanding of historical perspectives.
- Create timelines: Visualize the sequence of events to see how they interrelate and impact one another.
- Engage in group discussions: Collaborate with peers to discuss key themes and events, enhancing retention and understanding.
- Practice past exam questions: Familiarize yourself with the exam format and types of questions that may appear on the APUSH exam.
- Make flashcards: Use them for important terms, events, and figures to reinforce memory through active recall.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Period 7 APUSH study guide serves as a vital tool for students navigating this complex yet fascinating era of American history. By understanding the key themes, events, and figures, students can build a solid foundation for success on the APUSH exam. With diligent study and engagement with the material, students will be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of Period 7 and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key events during Period 7 of APUSH that shaped modern America?
Key events include the Spanish-American War, World War I and II, the Great Depression, the New Deal, and the Cold War, all of which significantly influenced U.S. foreign and domestic policy.
How did the New Deal programs impact American society during Period 7?
The New Deal programs aimed to provide relief, recovery, and reform during the Great Depression, leading to increased government intervention in the economy, the establishment of Social Security, and the creation of jobs through public works.
What were the main causes of the United States' involvement in World War II?
Main causes included the attack on Pearl Harbor, the rise of totalitarian regimes in Europe and Asia, and economic interests tied to supporting allies through programs like Lend-Lease.
How did the Cold War affect American foreign policy during Period 7?
The Cold War led to a policy of containment to prevent the spread of communism, resulting in military interventions in Korea and Vietnam, the establishment of NATO, and an arms race with the Soviet Union.
What role did civil rights movements play during Period 7?
Civil rights movements, particularly the African American civil rights movement, sought to end segregation and discrimination, leading to landmark legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, fundamentally changing societal norms.
