Discuss how or if post-Civil War America was truly a period of reform and justice for marginalized populations or if the population and economic landscapes provided for new forms of social and professional segregation. Use examples to support your answer. (200 words).
Unit II. Question 6.
Twain’s Gilded Age has been characterized as a period of excess: excessive political corruption, wealth accumulation, expansion of railroad and mining interests, racial segregation, and haphazard urbanization. Contrast this to the Progressive Era and the desire to create a more orderly and fairer society. Did the Progressives achieve their goals of reigning in the robber barons, bringing order to the chaos of urbanization, curbing the power of corporations, and eliminating the excesses of the westward expansion in the area of resource exploitation? (300 words).
Unit II. Question 7.
America felt growing pains in the late 1800s, many of which were negative experiences. What influenced urban blight (e.g., standardized housing, abandoned buildings, parts of cities falling into decrepitude due to crime) in the decades around the turn of the century, and was industrial expansion a positive or negative impact? In your response, make sure to address the experience of rising immigrant communities and living in tenement structures.
Your response should be a minimum of 300 words.
Unit IV. Question 2.
Discuss the changing economic landscape of the United States between the world wars. In your response, trace the highs and lows from the fallout of World War I, the onset of the Great Depression, and the impact of the New Deal. How did these trends have an impact on marginalized communities?
Your response should be a minimum of 300 words.
Unit V. Question 1.
Discuss the varied perspectives regarding the United States’ participation in World War II (WWII). Compare the views from political, social, and economic realms, including those of the American people not active in the military and from the international community.
Your response should be a minimum of 300 words.
Unit V. Question 2.
Discuss the United States’ entry into and role during WWII. Be sure to include key events, outcomes, and narratives. How did the United States’ power and influence throughout the world factor into their choice to enter the conflict and determine their actions during the conflict?
Your response should be a minimum of 300 words.
Unit VI. Question 2.
Describe the ways the United States adapted to change and the expectations that came with being a superpower during the Cold War. What was the biggest challenge that the United States had to overcome with the rising pressure of Communism? How did the changing national interests impact American perspectives on society?