United States History Ii- End Of Course Assessment Study Guide

United States History II: End-of-Course Assessment Study Guide

This comprehensive study guide covers key concepts and events in United States History II, preparing you for your end-of-course assessment. We'll explore significant themes, movements, and individuals, providing a structured approach to mastering this period of American history. This guide aims to not just help you pass the exam but also foster a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped modern America. Remember to consult your textbook and class notes for additional information and specific details relevant to your curriculum.

I. The Progressive Era (1890s-1920s): Reforming America

This period witnessed significant social, economic, and political reforms aimed at addressing the problems created by industrialization and urbanization.

• Key Figures: Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Jane Addams, Upton Sinclair, Ida B. Wells-Barnett. Understand their contributions and the movements they championed.
• Major Issues: Trust-busting (breaking up monopolies), conservation efforts, food and drug safety regulations (Pure Food and Drug Act), women's suffrage (19th Amendment), the rise of progressive journalism (muckrakers), and the ongoing struggle for racial equality.
• Amendments: 16th (income tax), 17th (direct election of senators), 18th (Prohibition), and 19th (women's suffrage) Amendments – know their impact and the social contexts surrounding their passage.
• Progressive Movements: Understand the differences between various progressive movements, such as the social gospel movement, settlement houses, and the women's suffrage movement. Analyze their strategies and effectiveness.

II. World War I and its Aftermath (1914-1920s): Global Conflict and Domestic Change

America's entry into World War I dramatically altered the nation's role on the world stage and had profound domestic consequences.

• Causes of WWI: Understand the underlying causes of the war (militarism, alliances, imperialism, nationalism) and America's initial neutrality. Analyze the events that led to U.S. involvement (unrestricted submarine warfare, the Zimmerman Telegram).
• Wartime Mobilization: Examine how the U.S. mobilized its resources and manpower for war. This includes conscription, the war industries board, and the impact on the home front.
• Wilson's Fourteen Points: Know the key provisions of President Wilson's plan for post-war peace and the reasons for its ultimate failure.
• Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations: Analyze the terms of the treaty, the debate over its ratification in the U.S., and the implications of America's refusal to join the League of Nations.
• Post-War Social and Political Climate: Understand the Red Scare, the Palmer Raids, and the rise of nativism and isolationism in the aftermath of the war.

III. The Roaring Twenties (1920s): Prosperity and Social Change

The 1920s were a period of economic prosperity, cultural change, and social tensions.

• Economic Boom: Understand the factors contributing to the economic prosperity of the decade, including technological advancements (automobile, radio), mass production, and consumerism.
• Social and Cultural Changes: Analyze the changes in social norms and values, including the rise of flappers, jazz music, the Harlem Renaissance, and the changing roles of women.
• Prohibition and Organized Crime: Examine the impact of Prohibition on American society, including the rise of organized crime and speakeasies.
• The Scopes Trial: Understand the context and significance of the Scopes Trial, reflecting the clash between modern science and traditional religious beliefs.
• Rise of Nativism and Immigration Restrictions: Analyze the resurgence of nativism and the passage of restrictive immigration quotas.

IV. The Great Depression (1929-1939): Economic Hardship and Government Response

The Great Depression was a period of severe economic hardship that profoundly impacted American society and led to significant government intervention.

• Causes of the Great Depression: Understand the factors contributing to the stock market crash of 1929 and the subsequent economic collapse (overproduction, underconsumption, stock market speculation, bank failures).
• The Dust Bowl: Analyze the environmental and social consequences of the Dust Bowl and its impact on the Great Plains region.
• Hoover's Response: Evaluate President Hoover's response to the Depression and its limitations.
• The New Deal: Understand the goals and programs of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal, including relief, recovery, and reform programs (e.g., Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), Works Progress Administration (WPA), Social Security Act). Analyze their effectiveness and long-term impact.
• Impact on Different Groups: Consider the effects of the Great Depression on various segments of the population, including farmers, African Americans, and women.

V. World War II (1939-1945): Global Conflict and American Mobilization

World War II involved the United States in a global conflict unlike any before, profoundly impacting the nation's role in the world and reshaping domestic society.

• Neutrality and Isolationism: Analyze the initial American stance of neutrality and the events that led to U.S. involvement (attack on Pearl Harbor).
• Mobilization and the Home Front: Understand the mobilization of the American economy and society for war, including rationing, war production, and the role of women and minorities in the war effort.
• Major Battles and Theaters of War: Have a general understanding of major battles and theaters of war (e.g., Europe, Pacific).
• The Holocaust and the Allied Victory: Understand the atrocities of the Holocaust and the significance of the Allied victory in defeating the Axis powers.
• The Atomic Bomb: Discuss the development and use of the atomic bomb, its ethical implications, and its long-term consequences.

VI. The Post-War Era (1945-1960s): The Cold War, Civil Rights, and Social Change

The post-World War II era saw the rise of the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, and significant social and political changes.

• The Cold War: Understand the origins and key events of the Cold War, including the Truman Doctrine, the Marshall Plan, the Korean War, the arms race, and the space race. Know the impact of McCarthyism and the Second Red Scare.
• The Civil Rights Movement: Analyze the strategies and key figures of the Civil Rights Movement (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Malcolm X). Know the key legislation passed during this era (e.g., Civil Rights Act of 1964, Voting Rights Act of 1965).
• The Vietnam War: Understand the origins, major events, and impact of the Vietnam War on American society. Analyze the anti-war movement and the social and political divisions it created.
• Post-War Economic Prosperity and Suburbia: Understand the post-war economic boom, the rise of suburbia, and their impact on American society.

VII. The 1960s and 1970s: Continued Social and Political Upheaval

This period witnessed continued social and political change, including the counterculture movement, the women's rights movement, and the rise of new social and political ideologies.

• The Counterculture Movement: Analyze the key characteristics and impacts of the counterculture movement.
• The Women's Rights Movement: Understand the second wave of feminism and its goals and achievements.
• The Environmental Movement: Examine the rise of environmental consciousness and the impact of environmental legislation.
• Watergate and the Presidency: Analyze the Watergate scandal and its impact on American politics and public trust.

VIII. The Late 20th and Early 21st Centuries: Globalization and Contemporary Challenges

This period encompasses significant events and trends shaping modern America, including globalization, technological advancements, and ongoing societal shifts.

• The End of the Cold War: Understand the events leading to the collapse of the Soviet Union and the resulting changes in global politics.
• Globalization and its impact on the US Economy: Analyze the impact of globalization on the American economy and workforce.
• Technological Advancements: Consider the impact of technological advancements (computers, internet) on American society and culture.
• Contemporary Social and Political Issues: Be aware of major contemporary social and political issues facing the United States, such as immigration, healthcare, and economic inequality.

IX. Key Themes and Concepts Across the Era:

• American Identity: How has American identity evolved throughout these periods? Consider the roles of race, ethnicity, gender, and class.
• Political and Economic Systems: Analyze how American political and economic systems have developed and changed over time.
• Foreign Policy: Understand how American foreign policy has shaped and been shaped by domestic events and global circumstances.
• Social Movements and Reform: Analyze the nature and impact of various social movements throughout this period.
• Technological Advancements and their Impact: Consider how technological innovations have influenced American society and culture.

X. Practice and Preparation:

• Review your class notes and textbook: Pay close attention to key terms, dates, and individuals.
• Create timelines and outlines: Organize the information chronologically and thematically.
• Practice multiple-choice questions: Use practice tests to assess your understanding and identify areas needing further study.
• Discuss the material with classmates or teachers: Collaborative learning can enhance your understanding.
• Get enough sleep and stay hydrated: Ensure you are well-rested and prepared on the day of the assessment.

This study guide provides a broad overview. Remember to consult your course materials for specific details and focus on the areas emphasized in your class. Good luck with your End-of-Course Assessment! You've got this!