Apush Unit 6 Progress Check

APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check: A Comprehensive Guide to Mastering the Gilded Age and Progressive Era

The APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check covers a pivotal period in American history: the Gilded Age and the Progressive Era (roughly 1877-1917). This era witnessed rapid industrialization, immense economic growth, and significant social and political changes, all intertwined with considerable inequality and reform movements. Successfully navigating this progress check requires a deep understanding of key concepts, individuals, and events. This comprehensive guide will break down the key themes, providing you with the knowledge and strategies to ace your assessment.

I. Key Themes of APUSH Unit 6:

Unit 6 focuses on several interconnected themes:

• Industrialization and its consequences: This includes the rise of big business, the growth of monopolies and trusts, the impact on labor, and the increasing wealth disparity. Understanding figures like Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, and the impact of industrial leaders on the economy is crucial. Consider the effects of laissez-faire economics and the rise of corporate power.

• Westward Expansion and its impact on Native Americans: The consequences of westward expansion on Native American populations, including the Dawes Act and the loss of tribal lands and cultural heritage, must be thoroughly examined. Key events like the Wounded Knee Massacre highlight the brutal realities of this period.

• Immigration and urbanization: Massive immigration from Europe and Asia transformed American cities. Examine the challenges faced by immigrants, the growth of ethnic enclaves, and the social and political responses to this influx of people. Consider the rise of nativism and its impact.

• Political corruption and reform: The Gilded Age was characterized by significant political corruption, exemplified by the spoils system and powerful political machines. Understand the Progressive Era's response to this corruption, including the efforts to introduce reforms such as the initiative, referendum, and recall.

• The rise of Populism and Progressivism: These reform movements sought to address the social and economic inequalities of the era. Analyze the platforms of these movements, their successes, and their limitations. Key figures like William Jennings Bryan and Theodore Roosevelt are central to this theme.

• Foreign Policy: The expansion of American influence globally, including the Spanish-American War and the acquisition of territories like Puerto Rico and the Philippines, needs thorough understanding. Explore the debates surrounding imperialism and its impact on both the United States and its newly acquired territories.

II. Key People and Events:

A thorough understanding of the following individuals and events is vital for success:

• Andrew Carnegie: His contributions to the steel industry and his philosophy of philanthropy ("Gospel of Wealth").

• John D. Rockefeller: His role in building Standard Oil and the implications of his monopolistic practices.

• J.P. Morgan: His influence on finance and corporate consolidation.

• Cornelius Vanderbilt: His dominance in the railroad industry.

• Populist Party: Their platform and impact on American politics.

• Progressive Era Presidents (Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, Woodrow Wilson): Their policies and their impact on American society.

• Jane Addams: Her work with Hull House and her contributions to social reform.

• W.E.B. Du Bois: His leadership in the NAACP and his advocacy for racial equality.

• Booker T. Washington: His approach to racial equality and his contrasting views with Du Bois.

• Spanish-American War: The causes, consequences, and impact on American foreign policy.

• Progressive Reforms: Understand initiatives like the 16th, 17th, 18th, and 19th Amendments, as well as the Interstate Commerce Commission and the Food and Drug Administration. Analyze their successes and limitations.

III. Strategies for Success:

• Thorough Reading: Carefully review your textbook and assigned readings, paying close attention to the key themes and individuals mentioned above.

• Note-Taking: Create detailed notes summarizing key events, individuals, and concepts. Use different colors to highlight important connections and distinctions.

• Practice Questions: Work through as many practice questions as possible. The APUSH exam often tests your ability to analyze historical evidence and synthesize information from different sources.

• Primary Source Analysis: Familiarize yourself with primary source documents from this era. Analyze them for bias, perspective, and historical context.

• Timeline Creation: Creating a detailed timeline of key events can help you understand the chronological flow of events and their interrelationships.

• Map Work: Understanding the geographical context of westward expansion and the location of key cities and industrial centers is crucial.

• Essay Practice: Practice writing essays on various topics related to the Gilded Age and the Progressive Era. Focus on developing clear arguments, supporting your claims with evidence, and analyzing historical context.

IV. Explaining Key Concepts:

• Laissez-faire economics: A policy of minimal government intervention in the economy. This approach allowed businesses to operate with minimal regulation, contributing to rapid industrial growth but also to significant economic inequality.

• Social Darwinism: A controversial theory that applied Darwin's theory of evolution to human society, suggesting that the "fittest" individuals and businesses would naturally succeed. This ideology often justified social and economic inequality.

• Monopolies and Trusts: Large corporations that controlled entire industries, often through mergers and acquisitions. These entities stifled competition and often engaged in unfair business practices.

• The Gospel of Wealth: Andrew Carnegie's belief that wealthy individuals had a moral obligation to use their fortunes for the benefit of society.

• Muckrakers: Journalists who exposed social and political corruption during the Progressive Era. Their investigative reporting played a crucial role in raising public awareness and pushing for reform.

• Progressive Reforms: A series of social and political reforms designed to address the problems of the Gilded Age, including issues of corruption, inequality, and social injustice.

• Imperialism: The policy of extending a nation's power and influence through diplomacy or military force. The Spanish-American War marked a significant turning point in American foreign policy, signaling a shift towards greater global involvement.

V. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

• What were the main causes of the Spanish-American War? The war was sparked by a combination of factors, including the sinking of the USS Maine, American support for Cuban independence, and a desire to expand American influence in the Caribbean.

• How did the Progressive Era address the problems of the Gilded Age? Progressives used various methods to address issues like monopolies, political corruption, and social inequality. This included enacting reforms like the Sherman Antitrust Act, establishing regulatory agencies, and advocating for social programs.

• What were the main differences between Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois? Washington advocated for gradual progress and vocational training for African Americans, while Du Bois championed immediate equality and higher education.

• What was the impact of westward expansion on Native Americans? Westward expansion had a devastating impact on Native American populations, leading to displacement, loss of land, cultural destruction, and violence.

• How did immigration shape American cities during this period? Mass immigration led to rapid urbanization, the growth of ethnic enclaves, and new social and cultural challenges. It also spurred debates about nativism and assimilation.

VI. Conclusion:

Mastering APUSH Unit 6 requires a comprehensive understanding of the social, economic, and political transformations that shaped the United States during the Gilded Age and the Progressive Era. By thoroughly reviewing the key themes, individuals, and events discussed above, and by employing effective study strategies, you will be well-prepared to succeed on the Unit 6 Progress Check and beyond. Remember to focus on the connections between different aspects of this era – the economic changes fueled social and political unrest, inspiring reform movements that aimed to reshape the nation. Understanding these complex interrelationships is key to a thorough understanding of this crucial period in American history. Good luck!