APUSH 2nd Semester Final

Plessy v. Ferguson

The Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of state-mandated racial segregation, establishing the "separate but equal" doctrine. This doctrine allowed for separate facilities for different races as long as those facilities were of equal quality, which was often not the case in practice.

Wabash Court Case

A Supreme Court decision in 1886 that severely limited state power to regulate interstate commerce. The court ruled that states could not regulate railroad rates when those rates applied to interstate transportation, establishing that only the federal government could regulate such matters. This decision essentially overturned previous rulings that had allowed states to regulate railroads within their borders. The decision paved the way for the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887, which established the Interstate Commerce Commission to regulate interstate commerce, including railroads.

Schenck V. United States

The Supreme Court established the "clear and present danger" test, which limits the scope of free speech under the First Amendment. The case, decided in 1919, involved Charles Schenck, a Socialist Party leader, who was convicted under the Espionage Act of 1917 for distributing leaflets urging resistance to the military draft during World War I. 

Brown v. Board of Education

Declared state-sponsored segregation in public education unconstitutional. It overturned the "separate but equal" doctrine established in Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) and affirmed that separate educational facilities were inherently unequal. This decision was a pivotal moment in the fight for civil rights, leading to the desegregation of schools across the country.

Roe v. Wade (original decision and when overturned)

(In 1973) established a woman's right to an abortion under the right to privacy, effectively legalizing abortion across the United States. The Court's decision was based on the Fourteenth Amendment's Due Process Clause, which protects personal liberty, including the right to make decisions about one's own body.

(In June 2022) the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in the case Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, eliminating the federal right to abortion, and allowing individual states to regulate or prohibit abortion.

Miranda v. Arizona

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that law enforcement must inform suspects of their Fifth and Sixth Amendment rights before questioning them in custody. Specifically, the Court stated that suspects must be told they have the right to remain silent, that anything they say can be used against them, and they have the right to an attorney, either retained or appointed if they cannot afford one.

Railroads Importance (related to the west)

The completion of this in 1869 marked a monumental achievement in the history of U.S. westward expansion by physically and symbolically uniting the country from coast to coast. They opened the way for the settlement of the West, provided new economic opportunities, stimulated the development of town and communities, and generally tied the country together.

Issues in the west with Natives

Westward expansion led to forced removal, violence, and broken treaties of natives. Settlers sought to claim Native lands and resources, resulting in conflicts and the Indian Wars. These events led to the displacement of Native populations and the establishment of reservations, which were often designed to isolate Native groups and limit their access to resources.

Issues with Settlers in the West

They faced numerous challenges, including harsh environmental conditions, difficulties in building homes, and health issues. They also struggled with conflicts with Native Americans and the economic hardships of establishing farms. Few building materials were available, leading to the construction of makeshift homes like sod houses, which often leaked and were difficult to keep clean causing disease among settlers

Role of Women in the West

Women's roles evolved beyond traditional domesticity, encompassing various occupations and social contributions, particularly in the face of frontier life and evolving societal norms. While women often played a crucial role in maintaining households and caring for families, they also participated in economic activities, activism, and even challenged social expectations.

Populists

Also known as the People's Party, they were a significant political party that emerged in the late 1880s/early 1890s. It primarily represented the interests of farmers, laborers, and other agrarian workers who felt ignored by the two major parties. The Populist Party advocated for policies like government regulation of industries, free silver coinage, and direct democracy.

Farmers in the West

The West's arid climate and frequent droughts posed significant challenges to crop production. However, the Homestead Act of 1862 provided settlers with land in exchange for cultivating it, attracting many farmers to the West. Increased land under cultivation and new farming techniques led to overproduction, causing prices to fall and making it difficult for farmers to make a profit. The region's diverse geography and climate, from the fertile plains to the arid deserts, influenced farming practices and the crops grown.

Impact of Big Business on western economy

Big businesses, particularly in industries like railroads, steel, and oil, fueled rapid economic growth. Technological advancements and efficient production methods led to increased productivity and a boom in manufacturing. However, big businesses often formed monopolies, controlling entire industries and accumulating vast wealth in the hands of a few individuals. This led to significant wealth inequality and workers faced low wages, dangerous working conditions, and limited opportunities for advancement. 

Impacts of Urbanization in the West

Led to rapid growth of cities due to mining, railroads, and agriculture. It brought infrastructure improvements but also caused environmental degradation and displacement of Native American communities. The influx of settlers increased demand for land and resources, fueling conflict and change.

The Labor Movement

Emerged in response to poor working conditions, low wages, and long hours during industrialization. Unions like the American Federation of Labor (AFL) organized strikes and advocated for workers' rights. Over time, the movement secured key labor reforms like the eight-hour workday and safer workplace laws.

Industrialization in the late 1800s

The late 1800s marked the Second Industrial Revolution, with rapid growth in steel, oil, and railroads. Innovations like the assembly line boosted productivity, and tycoons like Rockefeller and Carnegie dominated industries. However, industrialization also widened income inequality and created harsh labor conditions.

Urbanization in the late 1800s

As industries expanded, millions moved to cities for factory jobs, leading to overcrowding and poor sanitation. Cities became centers of economic activity but also faced housing shortages, poverty, and political corruption. This urban growth spurred calls for reform and improved public services.

Immigration in the late 1800s

Millions of immigrants, especially from Southern and Eastern Europe, arrived in the U.S. seeking opportunity. They settled in urban areas and faced discrimination, poor working conditions, and nativist backlash. Immigration fueled industrial labor needs and led to cultural diversity and social tension.

The Progressive Era

Focused on reforming political corruption, improving labor conditions, and addressing social injustices. Leaders like Theodore Roosevelt and reformers pushed for regulation of big business, women’s suffrage, and government accountability. It laid the groundwork for future reforms like the New Deal.

Imperialism

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the U.S. pursued imperialist policies by acquiring overseas territories like the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Motivated by economic interests, military strategy, and a belief in cultural superiority, American imperialism marked a shift toward global involvement. The Spanish-American War was a key turning point.

Causes of World War I

Caused by militarism, alliances, imperialism, and nationalism. The U.S. initially remained neutral but entered in 1917 due to German U-boat attacks and the Zimmerman Telegram.

Effects of World War I

Resulted in massive casualties, the collapse of empires, and a redrawing of national borders. In the U.S., it led to economic growth, increased government involvement, and social tensions. The Treaty of Versailles ended the war but sowed seeds for future conflict.

Social and Economic Impacts of World War I

Spurred industrial growth and job opportunities, especially for women and African Americans. However, it also led to inflation, labor strikes, and racial tensions. Socially, it brought the Red Scare and increased suspicion of immigrants and radicals.

Post WWI Immigration

The U.S. restricted immigration through quotas like the Emergency Quota Act (1921) and the Immigration Act of 1924. These laws favored Northern and Western Europeans and limited others, reflecting nativist fears. Anti-immigrant sentiment rose due to economic uncertainty and political radicalism.

Post WWI Economy

Initially boomed during the "Roaring Twenties" with consumerism, new technologies, and stock market growth. However, unequal wealth distribution and risky financial practices contributed to the 1929 stock market crash. The economic collapse led to the Great Depression.

Post WWI Politics

Favored conservatism, business interests, and limited government intervention. Presidents like Harding, Coolidge, and Hoover promoted laissez-faire policies. Scandals and resistance to progressive reforms also defined the era.

Post WWI Foreign Policy

The U.S. adopted a more isolationist stance, rejecting the League of Nations and avoiding entangling alliances. It focused on protecting American interests through tariffs and diplomatic treaties. This period marked a retreat from global leadership.

New Deal

President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s response to the Great Depression, consisting of programs to provide relief, recovery, and reform. It expanded the federal government’s role in the economy and society. Agencies like the CCC, WPA, and Social Security were key components.

What influenced FDR to implement New Deal Programs

Widespread unemployment, poverty, and the failures of Hoover’s limited response. Public pressure, economic theories like Keynesianism, and the need to restore confidence in capitalism also played a role. He aimed to save democratic institutions from collapse.

Objectives of FDR Programs

Aimed to provide immediate relief to the unemployed, promote economic recovery, and prevent future depressions. It sought to stabilize banking, support agriculture, and regulate industry. Long-term reforms focused on social welfare and labor rights.

Impacts of FDR Programs

Helped reduce unemployment and restored faith in the federal government. They created lasting institutions like Social Security and redefined the government’s responsibility for citizens’ welfare. Critics argued they expanded government too much or didn’t go far enough.

How was the New Deal tied to other programs/periods

It built on Progressive Era reforms and inspired future programs like the Great Society. It marked a shift toward modern liberalism and influenced debates over the role of government in economic crises. Many programs laid foundations for future welfare policies.

Impacts of Pearl Harbor Attack

Japan’s surprise attack on December 7, 1941, led the U.S. to enter WWII. It unified public opinion, ended isolationism, and mobilized the American economy for war. The attack also triggered fear of sabotage and led to Japanese American internment.

Impacts of WWII on the economy

Ended the Great Depression by creating millions of jobs and boosting industrial production. War industries grew rapidly, and women entered the workforce in large numbers. Government spending and defense contracts fueled economic growth.

Impacts of WWII politically/socially

It strengthened federal power and fostered civil rights activism, as minorities fought abroad and demanded equality at home. It also reinforced traditional gender roles post-war, though women had proven their capabilities. The G.I. Bill expanded access to education and homeownership.

Cold War political impacts

Reshaped U.S. foreign and domestic policies, leading to anti-communist actions like McCarthyism and the Truman Doctrine. It justified American involvement in global conflicts like Korea and Vietnam. Bipartisanship on containment became a political norm.

Cold War economic impacts

Prompted massive defense spending and technological development, including the space race. Military-industrial growth contributed to economic prosperity. At home, it influenced suburbanization and federal investment in science and education.

Cold War social impacts

Fear of nuclear war and communism affected American culture and behavior, including duck-and-cover drills and loyalty oaths. It heightened suspicion of dissent and marginalized leftist voices. At the same time, Cold War competition spurred civil rights reforms to improve America’s image abroad.

Women’s Rights/Liberation Causes

Was driven by long-standing legal, political, and economic inequalities. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, women lacked the right to vote, faced barriers to education and employment, and were subject to restrictive gender roles. The post-WWII era saw growing frustration among women who had worked during the war but were expected to return to domestic life. The Civil Rights Movement also inspired women to organize against discrimination, and publications like Betty Friedan’s The Feminine Mystique highlighted widespread dissatisfaction with traditional roles, sparking a new wave of feminist activism in the 1960s and 1970s.

Women’s Rights/Liberation Effects

The movement led to legal advances like Title IX and Roe v. Wade, expanded opportunities for women, and raised awareness of gender discrimination. It shifted cultural expectations and inspired future activism. However, it also faced backlash and internal divisions.

Women’s Rights/Liberation Major Figures

Betty Friedan, Gloria Steinem, and Shirley Chisholm. Friedan co-founded NOW and advocated for workplace equality. Steinem used journalism to promote feminism, while Chisholm broke barriers in politics.

Equal Rights Amendment

Aimed to guarantee equal rights regardless of sex, passing Congress in 1972. However, it failed to gain ratification by enough states. Phyllis Schlafly and others opposed it, arguing it threatened traditional family roles.

Women’s Rights/Liberation Opponents

Opponents like Phyllis Schlafly argued that the ERA and feminist goals would undermine family values and women's roles as mothers. Conservative groups mobilized to resist gender equality legislation. They played a major role in the ERA’s failure.

Great Society Causes

Launched by Lyndon B. Johnson to address poverty, racial injustice, and inequality in the prosperous 1960s. Influenced by New Deal ideas and civil rights activism, it sought to complete FDR’s vision. It was also a response to growing public concern over social issues.

LBJ’s Great Society Objectives

Aimed to eliminate poverty, expand education, improve healthcare, and promote civil rights. Key programs included Medicare, Medicaid, Head Start, and the Civil Rights Act of 1964. It greatly expanded the federal role in social policy.

Great Society Impacts

The programs reduced poverty and expanded access to healthcare and education. However, they also sparked debates over government spending and effectiveness. Some initiatives had long-term success, while others faced funding cuts or political opposition.

Great Society ties to other programs/periods

It was rooted in the New Deal tradition of using government to promote social welfare. It influenced later social programs and shaped modern liberalism. The backlash also helped fuel conservative movements in the 1970s and 1980s.

Social Issues of the 1960s

The 1960s were marked by racial inequality, gender discrimination, poverty, and opposition to the Vietnam War. These issues sparked widespread activism and cultural change. Youth movements, counterculture, and reform efforts challenged traditional norms.

Civil Rights Movement (1960s)

Led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and organizations like the NAACP, the movement fought segregation and voter suppression. Landmark victories included the Civil Rights Act (1964) and Voting Rights Act (1965). It used nonviolent protest and legal action to demand equality.

Anti-War Movement (1960s)

Opposition to the Vietnam War grew due to the draft, rising casualties, and distrust in government. Protesters organized marches, teach-ins, and acts of civil disobedience. The movement gained momentum after the Tet Offensive and Kent State shootings.

Responses to social movements/issues of the 1960s

The federal government passed major reforms, but also cracked down on dissent. Supporters saw progress in civil rights and anti-poverty efforts. Opponents reacted with a conservative backlash emphasizing law and order.

Why was the US involved in Vietnam?

The U.S. entered Vietnam to contain communism and uphold the Truman Doctrine. Leaders feared the “domino effect” in Southeast Asia. U.S. involvement escalated despite unclear goals and growing domestic opposition.

Truman Doctrine

A US foreign policy established to contain the spread of communism after World War II. It was first applied by providing military and economic aid to Greece and Turkey, which were threatened by communist insurgencies. The doctrine marked the beginning of the Cold War and committed the U.S. to supporting free peoples resisting subjugation by outside forces. It laid the foundation for future American involvement in global conflicts under the policy of containment.

Politics of the Vietnam War

The war divided the nation and undermined trust in government. Presidents Johnson and Nixon faced intense criticism. The War Powers Act (1973) was passed to limit presidential military authority.

Social Implications of the Vietnam War

The war led to generational divides, distrust of government, and skepticism about U.S. foreign policy. Veterans faced challenges reintegrating into society. The draft and media coverage fueled widespread protest.

Impacts of the Vietnam war

The war cost over 58,000 American lives and eroded public confidence in government. It weakened U.S. influence abroad and discouraged future military intervention. The war also reshaped military policy and civil-military relations.

Reagan’s political ideology

He promoted conservative values, smaller government, strong national defense, and traditional morality. He appealed to the “silent majority” and criticized liberal policies of the previous decades. Reaganism reshaped the Republican Party.

Reagan’s economic ideology

Known as “Reaganomics,” his policies emphasized tax cuts, deregulation, and reduced government spending. Supply-side economics aimed to spur growth by helping businesses. Critics argued it widened inequality and increased deficits.

Social Impacts of Reagan’s philosophies

His cuts to social programs hurt low-income communities but appealed to conservatives who favored self-reliance. His policies helped shift public discourse toward individual responsibility. The AIDS crisis and civil rights issues drew criticism of his administration’s inaction.

Newt Gingrich political philosophy

As Speaker of the House in the 1990s, Gingrich led the “Contract with America,” promoting conservative reforms, welfare cuts, and tax reductions. He advocated for limited government and confrontational politics. His leadership marked a shift toward partisanship in Congress.

George W. Bush Foreign policy

After 9/11, he adopted a doctrine of preemptive war, leading to U.S. invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq. His foreign policy emphasized fighting terrorism, spreading democracy, and protecting national security. It sparked global controversy and long-term military engagements.