Apush Period 6 Study Guide

APUSH Period 6 Study Guide: 1865-1898 – An Era of Transformation and Turmoil

This comprehensive study guide covers AP US History Period 6, spanning the years 1865 to 1898. This era, following the Civil War and Reconstruction, witnessed immense social, political, and economic transformations that shaped the modern United States. Understanding this period is crucial for success on the APUSH exam. We'll explore key themes, significant events, and important figures, providing you with a solid foundation for your studies.

I. Introduction: Reconstruction and its Aftermath (1865-1877)

The period immediately following the Civil War, known as Reconstruction, aimed to rebuild the nation and integrate formerly enslaved people into American society. However, the process was fraught with challenges and ultimately fell short of its goals.

• Key Events & Legislation: The assassination of Abraham Lincoln, the various Reconstruction Acts, the impeachment of President Andrew Johnson, the rise of the Ku Klux Klan and other white supremacist groups, and the contested Presidential election of 1876. Understanding the motivations and consequences of these events is paramount.

• Significant Figures: Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, Ulysses S. Grant, Frederick Douglass, W.E.B. Du Bois, Booker T. Washington. Learn their roles in shaping Reconstruction and their differing visions for the future.

• Key Themes: The failures of Reconstruction, the rise of racial violence and Jim Crow laws, the debate over federal versus state power, and the economic challenges faced by both the North and the South. Consider the long-term consequences of these themes on American society.

II. The Gilded Age: Industrialization and its Social Consequences (1877-1900)

The late 19th century, often referred to as the Gilded Age, was a period of unprecedented industrial growth, fueled by technological innovation and abundant natural resources. However, this prosperity masked significant social inequalities and widespread corruption.

• Industrialization: Examine the contributions of figures like Andrew Carnegie (steel), John D. Rockefeller (oil), and J.P. Morgan (finance). Analyze the impact of laissez-faire economics, monopolies, and trusts on the American economy and society. Understand the rise of vertical and horizontal integration.

• Technological Advancements: Explore the impact of inventions like the telephone, the light bulb, and the railroad on American life. Analyze the role of technological innovation in driving industrial growth and shaping urban development.

• Social Consequences: Consider the rise of urbanization, immigration, and labor movements. Analyze the living and working conditions of industrial workers, the rise of social reform movements, and the growing gap between the wealthy and the poor. Study the impact of significant labor strikes such as the Great Railroad Strike of 1877 and the Pullman Strike. Understand the roles of organizations like the Knights of Labor and the American Federation of Labor.

• Political Corruption: Examine the role of political machines, bossism, and corruption in shaping urban politics. Analyze the limitations of government regulation during this era.

III. Westward Expansion and the Native American Experience

Westward expansion was a defining feature of the late 19th century, leading to significant changes in the American landscape and the displacement and disenfranchisement of Native American populations.

• Manifest Destiny: Understand the ideology of Manifest Destiny and its impact on westward expansion. Analyze how this belief system justified the displacement of Native Americans and the annexation of new territories.

• Native American Resistance: Study the resistance of Native American tribes to westward expansion, including significant figures like Geronimo, Sitting Bull, and Chief Joseph. Analyze the impact of battles like the Battle of Little Bighorn and Wounded Knee.

• Government Policies: Examine the impact of government policies, such as the Dawes Act, on Native American tribes. Analyze the effects of these policies on Native American land ownership, culture, and identity.

IV. Rise of Populism and Agrarian Unrest

The late 19th century saw the rise of Populism, a political movement that sought to address the grievances of farmers and other working-class Americans.

• The Grange and the Farmers' Alliances: Understand the role of these organizations in advocating for farmers' rights and promoting political reform.

• The Populist Party Platform: Analyze the key tenets of the Populist Party platform, including demands for free silver, government regulation of railroads, and direct election of senators.

• The Election of 1896: Analyze the significance of the election of 1896, which pitted William McKinley against William Jennings Bryan, and its impact on the Populist movement.

V. Imperialism and the Spanish-American War (1898)

The late 19th century also witnessed the rise of American imperialism, culminating in the Spanish-American War.

• Causes of the Spanish-American War: Analyze the factors that led to the war, including American interests in Cuba, the sinking of the Maine, and yellow journalism.

• The War and its Consequences: Examine the course of the war and its consequences, including the acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.

• Debate over Imperialism: Analyze the debate over American imperialism, considering the arguments for and against expansionism. Understand the contrasting views of figures like Theodore Roosevelt and Mark Twain.

VI. Key Themes Across Period 6

Several overarching themes connect the events and developments of this period:

• Economic Transformation: The dramatic shift from an agrarian to an industrial economy, the rise of big business, and the resulting social and political consequences.

• Political Reform: The ongoing struggle for political reform, including efforts to address corruption, expand suffrage, and regulate big business.

• Social Change: The dramatic social changes brought about by industrialization, urbanization, immigration, and westward expansion.

• Race and Ethnicity: The persistent problem of racial inequality and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. Pay close attention to the legacies of slavery and Reconstruction.

• Westward Expansion and its impact on the environment and native populations: The consequences of westward expansion for both the natural environment and the indigenous people of North America.

• The Rise of American Power on the World Stage: The shift from isolationism to imperialism and the emergence of the United States as a global power.

VII. Preparing for the APUSH Exam

To succeed on the APUSH exam, focus on the following:

• Practice Multiple-Choice Questions: Use released APUSH exams and practice questions to familiarize yourself with the question format and test-taking strategies.

• Develop Strong Essay-Writing Skills: Practice writing essays that address complex historical questions using specific evidence and analysis. Focus on developing clear thesis statements, supporting arguments with evidence, and crafting well-organized and well-written essays. Master the use of historical thinking skills, such as contextualization, causation, comparison, and periodization.

• Create a Chronological Timeline: Develop a detailed timeline of key events, figures, and legislation to ensure you understand the chronological flow of events.

• Use Primary and Secondary Sources: Familiarize yourself with primary source documents (letters, diaries, speeches, etc.) and secondary source interpretations (historians' analyses) to develop a comprehensive understanding of the period.

VIII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the most important aspect of Period 6? The interconnectedness of industrialization, westward expansion, and social change is a crucial theme. Understanding how these factors shaped American society is key.

• Which figures are most important to know? While many individuals played important roles, focusing on figures like Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, Frederick Douglass, Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, Theodore Roosevelt, and William Jennings Bryan will provide a strong foundation.

• How much detail is needed for each event? Aim for a balanced understanding. Focus on the key causes, consequences, and significance of major events, rather than memorizing every detail.

• What is the best way to study for the essay portion? Practice writing essays on various prompts, focusing on clear thesis statements, strong evidence, and well-organized arguments. Seek feedback on your essays to identify areas for improvement.

IX. Conclusion

Period 6 in APUSH is a pivotal era in American history. By understanding the key themes, events, and figures discussed in this guide, you will be well-prepared to succeed on the APUSH exam and gain a deeper appreciation for this transformative period in American history. Remember to actively engage with the material, analyze the interconnectedness of events, and practice applying your knowledge to different historical interpretations. Good luck with your studies!