May 9, 2024
American Imperialism and Expansion: With the closing of the American frontier, the US turned its sights outward for raw materials and new markets. Early acts of imperialism include the Hawaiian coup for sugar trade advantages and strategic military positioning. Prominent imperialists like Alfred Mahan and Josiah Strong advocated for a strong navy and spread of American ideals, respectively.
Spanish-American War: Marked a shift in American foreign policy. Influenced by yellow journalism and the sinking of the USS Maine, the US declared war on Spain, leading to victories in Cuba, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the annexation of the Philippines. The subsequent Philippine-American War highlighted the complexities of American imperialism.
Progressive Era Reforms: A period of social, economic, and political reforms targeting corruption and monopolies. Key figures and legislations include muckrakers like Upton Sinclair, the Clayton Antitrust Act, and the establishment of the Federal Reserve. Women's suffrage and temperance movements also gained momentum, leading to the 18th and 19th Amendments.
US Foreign Policies: The Open Door Policy, Roosevelt Corollary, Dollar Diplomacy, and Moral Diplomacy shaped America's interactions with the world, focusing on access to markets, right to intervene in Latin American affairs, and support for democracy and economic stability.
World War I Involvement: Initially neutral, the US joined after German unrestricted submarine warfare intensified. The war effort on the home front saw significant contributions from women and minorities, while the Espionage and Sedition Acts curtailed American liberties. Wilson's 14 Points and the League of Nations proposal marked efforts to shape post-war peace, albeit with limited success.
Civil Rights Movements: Renewed focus on African-American rights, with the formation of the NAACP and figures like Marcus Garvey advocating for black nationalism. The Great Migration and Harlem Renaissance highlighted the shifting dynamics of African-American culture and society.
The Great Depression and New Deal: Triggered by economic mismanagement and the 1929 stock market crash. Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal sought to provide relief, reform, and recovery through various programs and acts. Criticisms arose over its effectiveness and concerns over potential socialism.
World War II and its Impacts: America's involvement followed the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, leading to significant contributions from minority groups and further consolidation of women's roles in the workforce. Post-war, there was a focus on victory against fascism abroad and equality at home, symbolized by the double V campaign.
For more study materials and practice, check out the APUSH review packet and resources available online.