U.S. History Semester 1 Finals Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts from U.S. history, including the Articles of Confederation, Civil War events, Reconstruction, westward expansion, industrialization, and immigration.

What were the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

The central government lacked enough power, couldn't collect taxes or control trade, and required all states to agree on important decisions.

What compromises went into making the Constitution?

The Constitution included compromises between large and small states and counted enslaved people as three-fifths of a person for representation.

According to the Supreme Court, why was Dred Scott not a citizen?

Dred Scott was not considered a citizen because African Americans were not recognized as citizens under the Constitution at the time.

Why was the Civil War fought and which side won?

The Civil War was fought mainly over slavery and states' rights, and the Union won the war.

Who was freed by the Emancipation Proclamation?

The Emancipation Proclamation freed enslaved people in the Confederate states.

How did all enslaved people eventually gain their freedom?

All enslaved people eventually gained freedom with the passage of the 13th Amendment.

What was the purpose of Reconstruction?

The purpose of Reconstruction was to rebuild the South after the Civil War and help formerly enslaved people gain rights and citizenship.

What was the Populist party and why did it appeal to working class Americans?

The Populist party emerged in the late 19th century advocating for free coinage of silver, government regulation of railroads, and direct election of Senators to appeal to working-class Americans.

What motivated westward expansion?

Westward expansion was motivated by Manifest Destiny, economic opportunities, and the discovery of gold.

What is the difference between vertical and horizontal integration?

Vertical integration is when a company controls different stages of production, while horizontal integration is when it merges with or acquires competitors at the same level.

Why do workers join unions and what tactics can a union use?

Workers join unions for better wages, benefits, and job security; unions can use collective bargaining, strikes, picketing, and lobbying.

What were some problems with living in a city during rapid urbanization?

Overcrowding, poor sanitation, pollution, unsafe housing, crime, and disease were common problems.

What are the motivations of American Imperialism?

Motivations included economic opportunities, military power, nationalism, and the belief in spreading American culture and Christianity.

How and why was Hawaii annexed by the USA?

Hawaii was annexed after American businessmen overthrew Queen Liliuokalani to gain sugar profits and naval power in the Pacific.

Why did the United States go to war with Spain?

The U.S. went to war with Spain to protect its interests in Cuba, influenced by yellow journalism and the explosion of the USS Maine.

What territories did the United States gain as a result of the Spanish-American War?

The U.S. gained Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines after the Spanish-American War.

What is Social Darwinism?

Social Darwinism is the belief that the strongest individuals or groups succeed naturally in society.

What is the difference between a push and a pull factor in immigration?

Push factors are reasons that drive people away from their home country, while pull factors are reasons that attract them to a new country.