Guide to America
Times of America from the 1880s to the 1920s
Industrialization
The Industrialization era of America saw many changes to America. The rise of new political movements, such as the Women's Suffrage movement, was a major political event. The expansion of railways across the U.S. had a huge impact on industry and development. Advances in communication allowed Americans to communicate faster than ever before and, in effect, sped up the expansion of the United States.
Immigration
Immigration reached a peak during the late 1800s. Political machines formed due to the influx of immigrants and had a huge impact on politics in America. There was a huge boom in population, but at Angel Island in San Francisco, thousands of Chinese immigrants were waiting in horrid conditions to be let into the U.S. Meanwhile, at Ellis island, after waiting a few hours, migrants were granted access into the country.
Urbanization
Urbanization led to the rapid development of political machines such as the one ran by Boss Tweed. This period also led to a rapid transformation towards mechanization. But this period was also known for the overcrowding in urban areas and poor living conditions.
Urbanization Changing the Landscape
Progressivism
Progressivism was a period where Americans worked for change and improvement in American society such as the fight against political corruption, regulation of food and drug industries, and schooling for the youth of America. It was also a period that saw conservation efforts take effect such as the founding of national parks. People in America during this time believed in the Merit system. This system focused on the individual's ability to find one's own work and be supported by one's own wages.
Imperialism
America eventually transferred into it's own age of Imperialism. One example of this is Teddy Roosevelt's Big Stick Policy. This period was also characterized by yellow journalism and the expansion of America's power after building the Panama Canal.
American Imperialism: Crash Course US History #28
WWI
America's involvement in WWI was minimal until German aggression pushed America over the edge due to the Zimmerman telegram. America tried to remain neutral and at the beginning of the war maintained trade with both sides of the conflict. All sides of the conflict posted propaganda that viewed war as an opportunity for glory and fame.