U.S. History from Reconstruction through Modern Times

  • Reconstruction Era

    Reconstruction Era
    Reconstruction refers to the period following the American Civil War when the United States sought to rebuild and reunite the nation. It involved efforts to integrate former Confederate states back into the Union, address the legal status of newly freed slaves, and establish new social and economic systems in the South.
  • Progressive Era

    Progressive Era
    The Progressive Era was characterized by social and political reform movements aimed at addressing issues such as corruption, inequality, and urbanization. It led to legislative changes, including labor laws, women’s suffrage, and consumer protection measures.
  • Industrialization

    Industrialization
    The industrialization of the United States marked a significant shift from an agrarian economy to one based on manufacturing and urbanization. This period saw rapid technological advancements, the rise of large corporations, and the transformation of labor practices.
  • World War I

    World War I
    World War I was a global conflict involving major world powers, including the United States. The war had far-reaching consequences for international relations and led to significant changes in U.S. foreign policy.
  • Great Depression

    Great Depression
    The Great Depression was a severe economic downturn that affected the United States and other countries worldwide. It resulted in widespread unemployment, poverty, and social upheaval, leading to significant government intervention in the economy.
  • New Deal

    New Deal
    President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal initiatives aimed to address the economic challenges of the Great Depression through government intervention, public works projects, and social welfare programs.
  • World War II

    World War II
    World War II was a global conflict that involved many nations, including the United States. The war had profound effects on U.S. society, industry, and international influence.
  • Cold War

    Cold War
    The Cold War was a period of geopolitical tension between the United States and its allies and the Soviet Union and its allies. It shaped U.S. foreign policy and had significant implications for global politics.
  • Civil Rights Movement

    Civil Rights Movement
    The Civil Rights Movement sought to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans in the United States. It led to landmark legislation and court decisions that advanced civil rights and equality.
  • Korean War

    Korean War
    The Korean War was a conflict between North Korea (supported by China and the Soviet Union) and South Korea (backed by a United Nations coalition led by the United States). It had lasting implications for U.S. involvement in East Asia.
  • Vietnam War

    Vietnam War
    The Vietnam War was a prolonged conflict between communist forces in North Vietnam and the U.S.-supported government of South Vietnam. It had a profound impact on U.S. domestic politics and foreign policy.
  • Women’s Liberation Movement

    Women’s Liberation Movement
    The Women’s Liberation Movement sought to address gender inequality and advocate for women’s rights in areas such as employment, education, reproductive rights, and social roles.
  • Civil Rights Act

    Civil Rights Act
    The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was landmark legislation that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It represented a major victory for the Civil Rights Movement.
  • Watergate Scandal

    Watergate Scandal
    The Watergate scandal involved a political scandal that ultimately led to President Richard Nixon’s resignation. It raised questions about executive power, government transparency, and accountability.
  • End of the Cold War

    End of the Cold War
    The end of the Cold War marked a significant shift in global politics as tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union subsided, leading to geopolitical realignments and changes in international relations.
  • September 11 Attacks

    September 11 Attacks
    The September 11 attacks were a series of coordinated terrorist attacks carried out by al-Qaeda on U.S. soil, leading to significant changes in U.S. national security policies and foreign interventions.
  • Iraq War

    Iraq War
    The Iraq War was a protracted conflict initiated by the United States-led coalition against Iraq over concerns about weapons of mass destruction and regime change
  • Election of Barack Obama

    Election of Barack Obama
    Barack Obama’s election as the first African-American president of the United States represented a historic milestone in U.S. politics and signaled broader societal changes regarding race and identity.
  • Affordable Care Act

    Affordable Care Act
    The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, represented a major overhaul of U.S. healthcare policy aimed at expanding access to healthcare services and addressing issues related to insurance coverage.
  • Black Lives Matter Movement

    Black Lives Matter Movement
    The Black Lives Matter movement emerged in response to police brutality and systemic racism against Black communities in the United States, sparking nationwide protests and advocacy for racial justice reforms.