U.S. History Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts in U.S. history from the 19th century through the Cold War, providing definitions for important terms and events.

Homestead Act

A law passed in 1862 that allowed any American, including freed slaves, to put in a claim for up to 160 free acres of federal land.

Sand Creek Massacre

A massacre in 1864 where a peaceful village of Cheyenne and Arapaho were attacked by the U.S. Army.

Black Kettle

A leader of the Cheyenne who sought to establish peace during the mid-19th century.

American Industrial Capitalism

A period of rapid industrial growth in America, characterized by the rise of corporations and technological innovation.

Gilded Age

A term used to describe the late 19th century, indicating the superficial glitter of wealth that concealed social problems.

Progressive Era

A time period in the early 20th century characterized by social activism and political reform.

New Freedom

Woodrow Wilson's campaign platform in 1912, emphasizing progressive reforms.

Truman Doctrine

The U.S. policy established in 1947 to counter Soviet geopolitical expansion during the Cold War.

Containment

A U.S. foreign policy adopted to prevent the spread of communism.

Civil Rights Movement

A social movement in the 1950s and 1960s aimed at ending racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans.

Vietnam War

A conflict involving the communist regime of North Vietnam against South Vietnam and its principal ally, the United States.

Cold War

The period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States after World War II.