An Age of Reform (Module 5.4)

What characterized American society in the 1840s?

An era of transition, instability, and social change

What were the two major trends?

Reform movements and a desire for order/control

Which Northern writer promoted individualism?

Walt Whitman

Which Southern writer explored spirit and emotion?

Edgar Allan Poe ("The Raven," "Annabel Lee")

What art movement emerged?

Hudson River School, emphasizing the greatness of nature

Which new religious community formed?

Mormons (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)

What inspired many Americans culturally?

European Romanticism and Protestant revival

What reforms in education occurred?

Expansion of schools, public vs private debates, training for men and women, rise of social agency approach

What social institutions were developed?

Mental hospitals (e.g., Salem), prisons, higher education

Which social movements emerged?

Feminism and abolitionism

What urban conflicts occurred?

New York and Philadelphia race riots, mob violence including clashes with Catholics

Why was this era important?

It gave people the ability to speak for themselves and minorities