Semester 2 Final Project

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    Labor Movement and Progressive Movement

    The movements had a lasting impacts on the United States. The establishment of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in 1909 advocated for civil rights and social justice for Black Americans, whilst the ratification of the 16th Amendment in 1913 established a federal income tax and expanded the government's role in the economy.
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    U.S Imperialism

    The US also engaged in imperialism, acquiring Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines after the Spanish-American War in 1898. The Roosevelt Corollary in 1904 allowed the US to intervene in Latin American affairs, while the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914 facilitated faster transportation. Finally, the US entry into World War I in 1917 led to increased military spending and government involvement in the economy, shifting the country's focus to international affairs.
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    The Gilded Age and Robber Barrons

    During this time-period the economy was greatly influenced by the rise of monopolies and influential entrepreneurs such as John D. Rockefeller. Additionally the Great Railroad Strike of 1877 and the Haymarket Riot of 1886 contributed to discussions about the rights of workers and opposition to labor unions. The Sherman Antitrust Act was subsequently passed in 1890 to encourage fair competition in the economy.
  • John D. Rockefeller

    John D. Rockefeller
    The rise of Standard Oil and other monopolies had a lasting impact on the American economy and society.Monopolies had the power to control prices and limit competition, leading to concerns about economic inequality and debates about government regulation.The Sherman Antitrust Act was passed in 1890 to address this,but debates about government regulation continue.Ongoing discussions and solutions are needed to address the potential negative impacts of large corporations on society and the economy
  • Who were Robber Barrons?

    Who were Robber Barrons?
    "Robber Barons" were wealthy business magnates who gained huge amounts of wealth and power through monopolistic practices in late 19th century in the USA. They controlled entire industries and used unethical business tactics to stifle competition, leading to economic inequality and social issues. Their impact on American society is still felt today with debates about wealth concentration, big business in politics, and fair treatment of workers.
  • The Great Railroad Strike

    The Great Railroad Strike
    This strike(in Martinsburg, West Virginia) showed the strength of organized labor and sparked discussions on workers' rights. It began over wage cuts and poor working conditions and quickly spread across the country, involving thousands of workers. Though the strike failed, it highlighted the tension between workers and powerful business interests, and sparked debates on labor unions and the role of government in protecting workers.Its impact can still be seen in labor relations and policy today
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    Urbanization and Immigration

    Urbanisation and immigration(in the late 1800s and early 1900s) led to significant changes in the United States' demographic structure. The opening of Ellis Island as a major port of entry for immigrants shaped the country's cultural identity. The passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act and Meat Inspection Act improved food safety standards and consumer protection, while the Immigration Act marked a shift towards restricting immigration.
  • Haymarket Riot in Chicago- persecution of labor activists and growth of anti-union sentiment.

    Haymarket Riot in Chicago- persecution of labor activists and growth of anti-union sentiment.
    The riot was a protest for the eight-hour workday, but it turned violent after a bomb explosion, killing multiple civilians and police officers.The accused activists' trial was plagued with accusations of bias and unfairness, leading to the execution of 4 men.The event further strained relations between labor and business interests, contributing to ongoing debates about workers' rights and government regulation of the economy(which extend into this day and age).
  • Ellis Island

    Ellis Island
    The island was a major entry point for millions of immigrants to the US from 1892 until its closure in 1954. The immigrants who passed through faced extreme discrimination and exploitation, but their contributions to American society in areas such as food, music, art, and literature continue to be felt today. Additionally, the Ellis Island's legacy as a symbol of American immigration still shapes conversations on immigration reform and citizenship today.
  • Spanish- American War

    Spanish- American War
    This war marked the beginning of American imperialism and acquisition of new territories. It led to a shift in American attitudes towards foreign affairs, a growing sense of American exceptionalism,and new challenges for policymakers.Economically,it had mixed impacts(,including new markets for U.S. goods), but its legacy is still felt today in American foreign policy and attitudes towards exceptionalism. Additionally the acquisition of new territories continues to impact American society now.
  • Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine announced

    Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine announced
    In 1904, the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine reinforced American exceptionalism and the US global power role, with the right to intervene in Latin American affairs to protect US economic interests. The policy impacted US foreign policy and trade, and set a precedent for interventionism worldwide. Its impact continues with debates over the government's role in foreign affairs and the balance between isolationism and interventionism today.
  • National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) founded

    National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) founded
    The NAACP founded in 1909 fought for racial equality, challenged discrimination, and achieved justice for all. It played a crucial role in civil rights, culturally supported Harlem Renaissance, politically transformed the US political landscape, and economically created opportunities for Black Americans(in education, employment etc). Today, it advocates for civil rights and social justice for people of color, inspiring generations of activists and leaders to fight for equality.
  • 16th Amendment Ratified

    16th Amendment Ratified
    Culturally,the ratification enabled the government to fund social programs,public services,cultural institutions,and World War I.Economically,it created a new revenue stream,allowing investment in infrastructure and policies supporting growth and stability.Politically,it expanded the government's power and influence over economic policy and established a progressive taxation system.Today,the income tax remains a critical source of revenue,supports public services, and shapes policy and politics.
  • Panama Canal opens

    Panama Canal opens
    The Canal symbolized American progress and modernity, eased cultural exchange and travel, transformed US trade and transportation, as well as contributed to US economic growth(by allowing easier trade worldwide). The Canal also gave the US control over global trade and transportation, and remains a vital asset in US foreign policy and global trade. Despite its continued significance, the Canal faces challenges such as environmental concerns and the need for maintenance and modernization today.
  • Immigration Act of 1917

    Immigration Act of 1917
    The Act marked a trend towards restricting immigration in the US, imposing literacy tests and other restrictions on immigrants. It affected American attitudes towards foreigners, decreased the diversity of the population, and had mixed economic impacts. It reduced labour supply in some industries while decreasing demand for goods and services. The act's impact is still felt today, with debates over immigration policy and the role of immigrants in American society.
  • U.S. enters World War I

    U.S. enters World War I
    The entry had major impacts on the US.The war created a sense of national unity and patriotism,and women played an essential role in the war effort(helped women equality).The economy was stimulated by a surge in production and industrial output.The government became more involved in the economy,and the war led to increased military spending and a greater focus on foreign policy and international relations.Today,the impact of WWI can still be seen in American culture, society, and foreign policy.
  • Pure Food and Drug Act and Meat Inspection Act

    Pure Food and Drug Act and Meat Inspection Act
    The Pure Food and Drug Act and Meat Inspection Act were passed to protect US consumers from unsafe and fraudulent food. They set safety and labelling standards, improving food safety, reducing illnesses and boosting the economical improvement in the food industry. Culturally, they established trust between government and consumers and set a model for future consumer protection laws. Today, FDA and USDA enforce food and drug regulations, emphasizing government's role in public health and safety.
  • The Finale

    The Finale
    The Gilded Age had significant impacts on the U.S., shaping its political, economic, and cultural landscape. Monopolies led to increased regulation, immigration sparked debates on identity and welfare policies, and progressive movements advocated for civil rights and government involvement in the economy. US imperialism during this time also impacted the country's global role and foreign policy, with lasting implications for international relations.