Apush Unit 6 Progress Check

Conquering the APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check: A Comprehensive Guide

The AP US History Unit 6 Progress Check covers the period from 1890 to 1945, a pivotal era marked by significant transformations in American society and its global role. This period encompasses the rise of industrialism, progressive reforms, involvement in World War I, the roaring twenties, the Great Depression, and the eventual entry into World War II. Mastering this unit requires a deep understanding of complex social, economic, and political changes. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the key concepts, themes, and potential questions you might encounter in the APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check.

I. Introduction: Setting the Stage for a Turbulent Era

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed America's dramatic transition from an agrarian society to a global industrial power. This transformation brought unprecedented economic growth, but also significant social and political challenges. Understanding the interplay between these factors is crucial for successfully tackling the APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check. Key themes include:

• The Rise of Industrial America: This involved massive industrial growth, fueled by technological innovations, abundant natural resources, and a large workforce. This led to the emergence of powerful industrialists like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller, and the rise of monopolies and trusts.
• Progressive Era Reforms: Concerned about the negative consequences of industrialization, progressive reformers advocated for social and political changes. This included efforts to curb the power of corporations, improve working conditions, and expand voting rights. Key figures like Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, and Jane Addams played significant roles.
• Imperialism and Foreign Policy: The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the United States expand its influence overseas, driven by economic interests, strategic considerations, and a sense of national destiny. This led to the Spanish-American War and the acquisition of territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
• World War I and its Aftermath: America's entry into World War I in 1917 dramatically altered the course of the war and the nation's role on the world stage. The war's impact extended beyond the battlefield, influencing domestic politics and social attitudes.
• The Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression: The 1920s witnessed a period of economic prosperity and cultural change, followed by the devastating Great Depression of the 1930s. This economic crisis profoundly impacted American society and led to the New Deal programs under Franklin D. Roosevelt.
• The Road to World War II: The rise of fascism in Europe and Asia, coupled with the failure of appeasement, ultimately led to the United States' involvement in World War II. The attack on Pearl Harbor propelled the nation into the global conflict.

II. Key Concepts and Themes You Must Master

The APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check will assess your understanding of several interconnected concepts. It is crucial to go beyond simple memorization and focus on analyzing cause-and-effect relationships, comparing and contrasting different perspectives, and contextualizing events within their broader historical framework.

• Economic Transformation: Analyze the impact of industrialization, including the rise of big business, labor movements, and the changing role of government in regulating the economy. Compare and contrast different economic philosophies of the era, such as laissez-faire capitalism versus progressive reform.
• Social and Cultural Change: Explore the changing demographics of American society, including immigration patterns, urbanization, and the rise of mass culture. Understand the impact of these changes on social relations, including race relations, gender roles, and the emergence of new social movements.
• Political Developments: Examine the evolution of American political institutions and ideologies. Analyze the roles of different presidents, political parties, and interest groups in shaping domestic and foreign policy. Pay attention to the rise and fall of progressive reform movements and the impact of various political scandals.
• Foreign Policy and Global Conflicts: Understand the motivations behind American imperialism, its involvement in World War I, and the rise of isolationism in the interwar period. Analyze the factors that led to American entry into World War II and the nation's role in the Allied victory.
• The Impact of Technology: Consider the role of technological advancements in shaping the economic, social, and political landscape of the era. Examples include the railroad, automobile, and advancements in communication technology. Analyze how these technologies impacted various aspects of American life, including work, leisure, and social interactions.

III. Analyzing Primary and Secondary Sources

The APUSH exam heavily emphasizes source analysis. The Unit 6 Progress Check will likely include questions requiring you to interpret primary sources such as political cartoons, photographs, letters, speeches, and excerpts from historical documents. Familiarize yourself with strategies for analyzing these sources, focusing on:

• Identifying the author's purpose and perspective: Who created the source? What was their intention in creating it? What biases might they have held?
• Understanding the historical context: When and where was the source created? What events were happening at the time? How might these events have influenced the source's content?
• Drawing inferences and conclusions: What can you infer from the source about the events, people, or ideas it depicts? What conclusions can you draw about the historical period?
• Comparing and contrasting different sources: How do different sources offer different perspectives on the same event or issue? What insights can you gain by comparing and contrasting them?

IV. Preparing for the Progress Check: Strategies and Practice

Effective preparation is key to success. Here's a structured approach to help you conquer the APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check:

1. Review Your Textbook and Class Notes: Thoroughly review the relevant chapters in your textbook and your class notes. Pay close attention to key terms, dates, and historical figures.
2. Create a Timeline: Develop a comprehensive timeline of major events during this period. This will help you understand the chronological sequence of events and their interrelationships.
3. Utilize Practice Questions: Work through numerous practice questions, focusing on different question types, including multiple-choice, short-answer, and essay questions. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses and familiarize yourself with the format of the Progress Check.
4. Focus on Key Concepts and Themes: Don't just memorize facts; understand the underlying concepts and themes that connect the events of this period. This will allow you to answer more complex questions and demonstrate a deeper understanding of the material.
5. Analyze Primary Sources: Practice analyzing various primary sources, such as photographs, political cartoons, and excerpts from speeches and letters. This will improve your ability to interpret historical evidence and draw meaningful conclusions.
6. Review Past APUSH Exams: Review past APUSH exams, paying close attention to questions related to Unit 6. This will give you a sense of the types of questions that are likely to be asked on the Progress Check.
7. Seek Help When Needed: Don't hesitate to ask your teacher or classmates for help if you are struggling with any aspect of the material. Working in study groups can also be a very effective way to improve your understanding and prepare for the Progress Check.

V. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What type of questions are on the APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check? The Progress Check will include a mix of multiple-choice, short-answer, and possibly some document-based questions. The emphasis is on analyzing historical sources and applying your knowledge to complex historical situations.
• How long is the Progress Check? The length varies, but expect it to take a significant amount of time. Allocate enough time for thorough preparation and completion.
• What resources can I use besides my textbook? Consider utilizing reputable online resources, supplemental reading materials, and primary source documents from archives. Always verify the credibility of your sources.
• How important is memorization for this unit? While some memorization is necessary (key figures, dates of important events), a deeper understanding of the why behind these events is much more crucial for success.
• What if I struggle with a particular concept? Don't get discouraged. Identify the area where you are struggling, seek help from your teacher or peers, and dedicate extra time to review the challenging material.

VI. Conclusion: Achieving Mastery of APUSH Unit 6

Successfully navigating the APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check requires a systematic and comprehensive approach. By focusing on key concepts, analyzing primary sources effectively, and utilizing various study strategies, you can build a strong foundation of knowledge and confidence. Remember that understanding the why behind historical events is as important as knowing the what. Consistent effort and a strategic approach will lead to success on the Progress Check and beyond, setting you up for achievement in the larger AP US History exam. Remember to utilize all available resources, including your teacher, classmates, and reliable online materials, to maximize your understanding and preparation. Good luck!