-
The Bicycle
Today the bicycle seems very normal or even underused. However when it first grew popularity it became a turning point for woman’s suffrage. New clothes were made for women which resembled more masculine attire. Which soon kickstarted the general idea of equality between sexes and changed the way women dressed and lived. -
Trade with Japan
Commodore Mathew Perry sailed to Tokyo Bay which was exclusive to the Emperor and his fleets. He persisted and used his large ships and weapons to threaten the Japanese. Through passive threats and persuasion Japan finally agreed to open trade with America. After opening trade with Japan America grew to become a World Power and dominated trade with numerous countries after. -
Golden Spike Ceremony
As the last railroad track was laid in Prommetory Summit, Utah; a ceremony was held so that the great officials of the railroad construction could be present in the last spike sealing the end of the great railroad. The four spikes were large 17.6 gold spike that was hammered in by Union Pacific President Leland Stanford pounded the spikes in; that were later replaced with real iron spikes for practicality. -
Carrie Nation and the Temperance Act
She is famously known as the lady with the hatchet who violently protested against drugs and alcohol. She often would enter saloons and start smashing and wrecking everything is hopes that it would shut down the bars. Despite backlash and jail time the famous activist became a strong pillar of the Temperance act. The Temperance Act banned all smoking and alcohol and was passed June 2, 1851. -
Homestead Act
Granted any person to own public land in the west that was unsettled. The requirements of officially owning it was the settler had to live and toil for five years prior. Any person who was at least 21 years or the head of a family could become owner of a homestead of 160 acres. This act helped many poor people become land owners and sustain themselves as well as build their success. -
Emancipation Proclamation
Issued on January 1, 1863, Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. In attempt to change the goals of the Civil War and the unity between both North and South; declaring that the freedom of slaves in rebellious states would be set free. -
Sand Creek Massacre
Some of the Cheyenne raided passing wagons and settlements. Many settlers go very angry and complained to the governor of Colorado. The governor granted the natives peace and safety from the American settlers while he solved the conflict resided. One day they were all of a sudden attacked by Gen. Custer and his men who slaughtered 150-500 Native Americans. -
13th Amendment
The 13 amendment officially freed all slaves in all states. Ratified in December 6 of 1865 by Abraham Lincoln. It stated “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” This amendment changed the course of history completely and changed thousands of lives, granting freedom and dignity to slaves all throughout America. -
Reconstruction Acts
There where three major acts passed in 1867. Military Reconstruction Act restarted the reconstruction in the 10 southern states that rebuked and refused to ratify the 14th amendment. It also divided the 10 ‘unreconstructed states’ into 5 military districts. The Command of Army Act ensured that the President must issue reconstruction orders through the commander of military. The Tenure of Office Act forbade the President to remove any official without the Senate’s Consent. -
Civil Rights Act of 1875
These acts where created to stop discrimination against freed African Americans. It affirmed the “equality of all men before law.” It guaranteed equal treatment in places such as public transport, public accommodations and the right to serve in the jury. -
Statue of Liberty
This iconic monument was designed by Frederick Auguste Bartholdi. It was gifted by the French to the Americans as celebrating the United States one hundred years of independence. Which officially started after the declaration of independence was signed. Located in New York City near Ellis island lady liberty has been a beacon of hope and relief not only for American citizens but millions of immigrants coming to the US to achieve the “American Dream” . -
The Dawes Act
It was a bill encouraging the Native Americans to assimilate with American culture, in addition to moving them onto reservations. They were expected to wear civilized clothes, cultivate the ground, ride wagons, on property, living houses, and send their children to school. This law however was not effective and eventually failed due to the amount of backlash amongst the tribes and reservations -
Invention of Basketball
As industries boomed and machinery took over America many people found themselves gifted with a lot more leisure time than before. The entertainment industry was beginning to become a popular pastime, sports being one of the largest. Invented by James Naismith - Basketball soon became a classic American sport that currently continues to entertain millions worldwide. -
Ellis Island
Ellis island was an immigration center located on Ellis Island in New York. Through these “golden gates” millions of immigrants entered and applied to become citizens. Many immigrated to America to escape persecution, mistreatment, poverty, and two overall start a new life in the land of opportunities and freedom, -
Klondike Gold Rush
After the purchase of Alaska rumors quickly spread of gold found in the great mountains in the Yukon. Just like the California gold rush many quickly came in hope to find their fortune. 100,000 people set off for a 6 month period to search for gold and only 30,000 returned. -
Plessy v. Ferguson
This famous case debated the morality of Americas segregation and racial injustice. White and black students, adults, and anyone who had the slightest connection to black or African roots where to live their lives segregated from the rest of society. The court eventually ruled that segregation was legal as long as facilities were "separate but equal." -
The Grandfather Clause
In addition to other laws and voting regulations, used to disable the freed black community from voting. The Grandfather Clause simply allowed men to vote if their grandfather had or was eligible to vote.Certain voting laws where made specifically to exclude the black community from voting. However even those laws still disabled the poor and illiterate white population. Therefore this law was put into place in order to include as many white votes as possible. -
Spanish American War
After months of propaganda spreading and conflict rising between the Cubans and Spaniards. A ship was sent to Havana harbor to provide an intimidating presence towards the Spaniards. Who were ruling Cuba at the time. However one day the Maine blew up killing 260 soldiers. The immediate speculation was that the Spanish army had bombed the ship. On April 25, 1898 congress declared war of Spain which then jump started the entire Spanish American war. -
Battle at Manila Bay
As the war progressed, Spain’s other conquered country - Philippines started fighting with the Americans too. The battle at Manila Bay was lead by Commodore George Dewey. Him and his army defeated the Spanish navy in Philippines after only 6 hours of battle. -
Foraker Act
Post Spanish - American War Americans where now in charge of many smaller countries including Puerto Rico. Despite the fact that Puerto Rico is still under American ‘ownership’; Puerto Rican’s have a very separate culture than the typical American settlement . They were given their own government under the Foraker Act in 1900. Later in 1917 they were given U.S. citizenship, despite them not being an official state. -
1902 Coal Strike
During President Roosevelt’s presidency, amidst the progressive era, coal miners unsatisfied with their conditions lead a huge strike. Like many other workers they wanted 9 hr work days, increase in wages, and the right to unionize. Head boss’ were unwilling to settle but Roosevelt mediated the debate and soon settled for a compromise that both sides would like. This created an expectation that the government should step in and help or deal with issues like this and many others. -
Assasination
It was this breaking of peace ties and severed alliances that kickstarted the Great War. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand was a crime that the whole world would never forget . “This outrageous act of brutality was aimed at undermining the Austro-Hungarian Empire which had annexed Bosnia into its multi-ethnic Empire in 1908.“ Known as the shot that changed the world. Gavrilo Princip, the killer, truly had no idea of the havoc that was soon to occur, all from one shot. -
Sinking of Lusitania
One of the main causes of America joining the war front. A German Sub or otherwise known as a U-boat torpedoed enemy ships often. This however was one of the first ships torpedoed. It primarily served as a cargo ship however in this case there where passengers riding on the ship, unbeknownst to the Germans. They torpedoed the ship killing all on board many in which where American. -
Picketing of the White House
Along the numerous ways women protested picketing was the most influential and caused protesters to later be arrested. Using Woodrow Wilson’s own words and peacefully standing outside on the White House gates suffragettes had no reason to be arrested. Once WWI began they didn’t cease to stand outside the White House every day. They were later arrested for obstruction of traffic and suffered greatly in jail, nevertheless they still prevailed and went of hunger strike. -
19th Amendment
After years of struggle and protest the amendment granting votes for women was finally passed. The amendment was passed by one vote from Tennessee. This gave hope and freedom to millions of American women who fought for equality and were slowly knocking down the barrier between men and women. -
Prohibition
The 18th amendment was established to eliminate the violence and havoc that was induced by drugs and alcohol. This however backfired immensely as a chain of mod gangsters, smugglers, and bootleggers took over the liquor industry worsening the public safety and crime rates before prohibition. Due to lack of support and skyrocketing crime it failed quickly and was repealed soon after. -
Lucky Lindy
Charles Lindbergh was the first pilot to fly straight from New York to Paris France on the famous Spirit of St.Louis. This accomplishment was unthought of and contributed the competitive and limit pushing spirits of the twenties. -
Rise of Entertainment
As the Great War ended, industrialization was on the rise, and the entertainment business just gaining popularity. In 1929 Americans spent $ 4.5 billion of entertainment. With a lot more free time Americans invested time in enjoying the arts and sports. This opened up a whole new career field for talented artists, creators, athletes, and business people. -
Stock Market Crash
One of the biggest crashes in American history. On October 24, 1929 America went into a frenzy. Banks overflowed with angry and panicked citizens. Though this was not the primary cause of the depression it was a large contributor and would effect Americans lively hoods for ever. -
Dust Bowl
As if the Great Depression couldn’t get any worse the dust bowl dilemma arises. Due to poor agricultural practices, drought, and wind erosion the Midwest and plains soon turned into America’s sandbox. Forcing thousands to emigrate from all they knew to a new life in poverty. Many families suffered starvation, poverty, and desperation that led many to desert their families or homely life to the Hoovervilles in the big cities. -
Smoot Hawley Tariff
A plan meant to revive the crippling American economy soon drove it deeper into its grave. Herberts Hoover’s “greatest mistake” made during his presidency that was the highlighted fall of Hoover’s many ridicules. The tariff implemented a 50% import tariff on all goods hoping to motivate consumers to buy all American . Not only did it wreck international trade relations but worsened allies economy as well. -
Election of 1932
Desperate for a new president and support that Americans lacked in Hoover, this election was one that would determine the destiny of the Great Depression. Franklin Roosevelt a optimistic, confident, and cheerful attitude drew voters in immediately. His New Plan to get the US out of economic turmoil was America’s ticket to success. FDR won by a landslide, the election that would go down in history as the start of America’s recovery from the crippling depression that impacted the nation. -
Court Packing Plan
At the end of FDR’s presidency he proposed to appoint 6 new judges expanding the Supreme Court. He received much criticism from the government and citizens as well for it seemed as if he was simply trying to save his career and appoint 6 new ‘Yes Men’ that would unconditionally support FDR and his laws. It never passed and was the start of his decline. -
Hitler invades Poland
As Hitler and the Nazi empire rose to fame he broke the peace treaty's signed after the previous world war by invading Poland. In attempt to conquer more land and later all of Europe. With this violation of the treaty of Versailles as well as retaliation from allies World War Two was quickly declared as Hitler continued to take over France and other allies. -
Bombing of Pearl Harbor
With war on the eastern front escalating Japan knew that America was bound to join the Allies sooner or later. As retaliation from trading tensions and attempt to sabotage their main Naval supply and postpone America’s involvement the Japanese military bombed Pearl Harbor. This destructive event catapulted the U.S. into both fronts of the world war. -
Japanese Interment Camps
After Pearl Harbor Americans on the west coast grew frantic and suspicious of all Japanese Americans in fear that they where affiliated with the Japanese government. As a result Japanese Americans where taken away from their homes and forced onto interment camps in isolation from their old lives and communications with possible Japanese military officials. -
Battle of Midway
A turning point for the Americans fighting on the Pacific theatre was the famous battle of midway. As the name suggests it was in the middle of the ocean and naval and air battle. The US won a decisive victory as planes destroyed 4 Japanese aircrafts and 259 planes. -
Battle of the Bulge
In October 1944 the first German town was captured by the Allies. As Hitlers movement was slowly coming to a halt he made one last ditch effort to save his borders. He hoped that breaking through the Allie’s front lines he would break up the supply chain therefore buying more time and saving his cause. This however failed and lasted for a month leaving Germany with a loss of 120,000 soldiers. -
D-day
As the Allies progressed one of their hardest battles was yet to occur. In efforts to liberate France and the rest of Europe each country of the Allies tackled a part of the French beaches where German troops and guards where stationed. It was the largest land - sea - air operation In military history and despite the unlikely circumstances and mass loss it was a huge victory. -
Truman Doctrine
This Doctrine was created to support and disband communist influences from spreading to Turkey and Greece. In order to stop the potential political and economical havoc that could of occurred President Truman sent $400 mill worth of war supplies to help Greece push out communism. -
Marshall Plan
War damage and dislocation in Europe invited Communist influence. Economic aid of $17 billion to West Europe to all countries in the Euro Recovery Program. The soviets refused and they were blamed for dividing Europe. -
Berlin Candy Bomber
Gail Halverson would fly overhead eastern European countries isolated due to the Berlin Wall and drop off small parachutes of sweets and small gifts for children. Named the candy Bomber he dropped a total of 23 tons of treats overall. He was adored by all and shed light and joy to those who were suffering under Communist rule. He also received the congressional medal of honor. -
NSC-68
This was a containment Doctrine that served as the framework for US policy. It was an increase in defense spending to improve weaponry and ensure victory. From $13 billion to $50 billion on a yr. to be paid for with tax increase. -
NATO vs. Warsaw Pact
The Warsaw Pact was formally known as the treaty of friendship however the Warsaw Pact was referred to as the eastern block while NATO and its member countries represented the western block. Overtime each side built their own armies and were at race against each other before and throughout the Cold War. -
Alaska and Hawaii
Alaska and Hawaii are currently the only two states that are not apart of the mainland. Alaska bought by Seward from the Russians provided America with numerous resources. Hawaii was also gained by Americans post Spanish American War. Both states have provided many reasons -
Operation Ranch Hand
When US Bombs failed to break down the jungle cover USAF started a defoiliation program called "Agent Orange". This deadly chemical contained dioxin, killed off millions of acres of Vietnamese jungle and severely harmed Vietnamese civilians causing major illness and deformities to children birthed during the spread of ORH. -
Struggles of the Ground War (Vietnam)
As the Vietnam war progressed the Americans despite their pride and confidence from their world power status did not have a bright future. Unlike the structured fighting techniques in the Korean war, Vietcong fought on land in the guerilla warfare style with booby traps set all over the jungle waiting to capture and delay US soldiers. -
Natures Role In the Vietnam War
The Vietcong not only had great home advantage but they utilized natures tools all around them. They created numerous booby traps all around the jungle and in various US huts made of wood and jungle vegetation along with sharpened rock or wooden spikes used to pierce soldiers. The Vietcong also dug large intrecate tunnels were they hid and used as lookout spots to attack the opposing side. These tunnels were well hidden and the US were not able to find and successfully block them. -
Paris Peace Agreement
Early in January 1973 the US and Vietnamese agreed on a ceasefire and after five months of arguing over a silly conference table they met and agreed to stop fighting in North Vietnam. This did not officially end the war, only US involvement against Vietcong however Civil conflict in Saigon with Communist leaders continued.
