Period 9 APUSH Key Concepts embarks on a captivating journey through American history, delving into pivotal events, influential figures, and transformative movements that have shaped the nation’s identity and destiny.

From the birth of a new nation to the challenges of the 21st century, this comprehensive guide unveils the complexities of America’s past, providing a deeper understanding of its present and future.

American Revolution

The American Revolution was a pivotal conflict that resulted in the establishment of the United States of America as an independent nation. Its causes were multifaceted, including political tensions between the British government and the American colonies, economic grievances, and a growing sense of American identity.The

Revolution began with the Boston Tea Party in 1773, a protest against British taxation policies. Tensions escalated, leading to the outbreak of armed conflict at the Battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775. The Continental Congress declared independence on July 4, 1776, with the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

Key Events

• Boston Tea Party (1773)
• Battles of Lexington and Concord (1775)
• Declaration of Independence (1776)
• Battle of Saratoga (1777)
• Treaty of Paris (1783)

Key Figures

• George Washington
• Thomas Jefferson
• Benjamin Franklin
• John Adams

Consequences

The American Revolution had a profound impact on American society and government. It established the United States as an independent nation, based on the principles of democracy and self-governance. The Revolution also led to the abolition of slavery in the northern states, and the expansion of westward settlement.

The New Nation

The newly independent United States faced numerous challenges and opportunities. The challenges included establishing a stable government, defending its borders, and creating a prosperous economy. The opportunities included the chance to create a new society based on the principles of liberty and equality.

The development of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights was a key step in the formation of the new nation. The Constitution established a framework for the federal government, while the Bill of Rights guaranteed certain individual freedoms.

Key Figures in Shaping the New Nation

• George Washington: The first president of the United States, Washington played a key role in leading the country through the Revolutionary War and establishing the new government.
• Thomas Jefferson: The third president of the United States, Jefferson was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and a leading advocate for democracy and individual rights.
• Alexander Hamilton: The first Secretary of the Treasury, Hamilton was a leading advocate for a strong central government and a national bank.
• James Madison: The fourth president of the United States, Madison was a leading advocate for the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Westward Expansion

The westward expansion of the United States was a significant period of American history marked by the exploration and settlement of lands west of the original thirteen colonies. Driven by various motivations and aided by technological advancements, this expansion had profound impacts on Native American tribes, the environment, and the nation as a whole.

Motivations for Westward Expansion

• Economic Opportunities:The vast, fertile lands of the West offered opportunities for farming, ranching, and mining, attracting settlers seeking economic prosperity.
• Political Expansionism:The desire to expand American territory and influence motivated politicians and settlers alike.
• Manifest Destiny:The belief that the United States was destined to expand across the continent influenced public opinion and government policies.
• Religious Freedom:Some groups, such as the Mormons, sought religious freedom and isolation in the Western territories.

Impact on Native American Tribes, Period 9 apush key concepts

• Loss of Land and Resources:Westward expansion resulted in the displacement and dispossession of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands.
• Cultural Disruption:The arrival of settlers disrupted traditional Native American ways of life, including hunting, gathering, and spiritual practices.
• Conflict and Warfare:Resistance to encroachment by settlers often led to violent conflicts, resulting in significant loss of life and cultural heritage.

Impact on the Environment

• Deforestation:The clearing of forests for agriculture and settlement led to widespread deforestation, altering ecosystems and reducing biodiversity.
• Overgrazing:The introduction of livestock by settlers resulted in overgrazing, which damaged grasslands and disrupted natural grazing patterns.
• Pollution:Mining and industrial activities associated with westward expansion contributed to pollution of water sources and air quality.

Role of Technology and Transportation

• Steamboat:The invention of the steamboat facilitated transportation along rivers and waterways, opening up new territories for exploration and settlement.
• Railroad:The construction of transcontinental railroads provided a reliable and efficient means of transporting goods and people, accelerating westward expansion.
• Telegraph:The development of the telegraph allowed for faster communication and coordination between settlers and the East.

The Civil War

The American Civil War, fought from 1861 to 1865, was a pivotal conflict in American history. The war pitted the Union (the northern states) against the Confederacy (the southern states), primarily over the issue of slavery.

Causes of the Civil War

* Sectionalism:Economic and social differences between the North and South led to growing tensions. The North had a more industrialized economy and a diverse population, while the South relied heavily on agriculture and slavery.

Slavery

The issue of slavery was the most divisive issue between the two regions. The North was largely opposed to slavery, while the South defended it as necessary for their economy.

States’ Rights

Southern states argued that they had the right to secede from the Union if they felt their interests were not being protected.

Consequences of the Civil War

* End of Slavery:The war resulted in the abolition of slavery in the United States with the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution.

Strengthening of the Federal Government

The war strengthened the federal government’s power over the states.

Reconstruction

After the war, the South underwent a period of Reconstruction, during which the federal government attempted to rebuild the region and reintegrate it into the Union.

Economic and Social Impact

The war had a devastating impact on the South, destroying infrastructure and causing widespread poverty. The war also led to the displacement of millions of people and the rise of racial tensions.

Key Battles and Figures

* Battle of Gettysburg:A major Union victory that turned the tide of the war in favor of the North.

Battle of Vicksburg

A Union victory that gained control of the Mississippi River and split the Confederacy in two.

Abraham Lincoln

President of the United States during the war and a key figure in preserving the Union.

Ulysses S. Grant

Union general who led the Union to victory.

Robert E. Lee

Confederate general who led the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia.

Impact on American Society and Government

* Abolition of Slavery:The war resulted in the abolition of slavery, which had been a major source of division and conflict in American society.

Strengthening of the Federal Government

The war strengthened the federal government’s power over the states, and established the principle that the federal government had the right to intervene in state affairs.

Racial Tensions

The war exacerbated racial tensions between whites and blacks, and led to the rise of white supremacy groups such as the Ku Klux Klan.

Reconstruction

Reconstruction, the period following the Civil War, presented immense challenges and witnessed both successes and failures.

Challenges and Failures

Reconstruction faced numerous obstacles. The assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, a staunch supporter of Reconstruction, created a leadership vacuum. Southern states resisted federal authority, passing “Black Codes” that restricted African American rights and hindered their economic and social progress. The federal government’s failure to adequately protect African Americans from violence and intimidation further undermined Reconstruction efforts.

Impact on African Americans and the South

Reconstruction had a profound impact on African Americans and the South. The abolition of slavery and the passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments granted African Americans citizenship, the right to vote, and equal protection under the law. However, these rights were often denied in practice, and African Americans continued to face discrimination and violence.Reconstruction

also brought economic and social changes to the South. The plantation system was dismantled, and many former slaves became tenant farmers or sharecroppers. The federal government established the Freedmen’s Bureau to provide aid to former slaves, but its efforts were often hindered by local resistance.

Role of Federal Government

The federal government played a significant role in Reconstruction. It passed laws to protect African American rights and sent troops to enforce them. It also established the Freedmen’s Bureau and provided financial assistance to the South. However, the federal government’s commitment to Reconstruction waned over time, and the South gradually regained control over its affairs.

Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution, a period of significant technological advancements, swept across the United States in the 19th century, transforming the nation’s economy and society.

Causes of the Industrial Revolution

• Availability of abundant natural resources, such as coal, iron, and timber.
• Growth of cities and transportation networks, facilitating the exchange of goods and labor.
• Invention of new technologies, including the steam engine, cotton gin, and interchangeable parts.

Consequences of the Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution brought about profound changes in American society and the economy:

• Urbanization: Factories drew workers to cities, leading to rapid population growth and urbanization.
• Economic growth: Industrialization fueled economic growth, creating new industries and increasing productivity.
• Social inequality: The Industrial Revolution widened the gap between the wealthy factory owners and the working class.
• Labor movements: Workers organized into unions to demand better working conditions and wages.

Key Inventions and Industries

• Steam engine: Powering factories and transportation.
• Cotton gin: Revolutionizing cotton production and the textile industry.
• Interchangeable parts: Enabling mass production of goods.
• Telegraph: Facilitating long-distance communication.

Impact on American Society

The Industrial Revolution had a profound impact on American society:

• Changing demographics: Immigrants flocked to industrial cities, transforming the nation’s population.
• Education: The need for skilled workers led to the expansion of education and technical training.
• Social problems: Industrialization brought social challenges, such as poverty, crime, and environmental pollution.

Imperialism: Period 9 Apush Key Concepts

In the late 19th century, the United States emerged as a global power, embarking on a period of imperialism that significantly shaped its domestic and foreign policies. Driven by a combination of economic, political, and cultural factors, American imperialism had profound consequences for the nation and the world.

Causes of American Imperialism

• Economic Expansion:The desire for new markets and resources fueled American imperialism. Industrialization created a surplus of goods that needed new outlets, while the growth of population increased the demand for raw materials.
• Political Ambitions:The United States sought to expand its sphere of influence and assert its dominance in the world. This ambition was influenced by the belief in American exceptionalism and the idea of Manifest Destiny.
• Cultural Superiority:Many Americans believed in the superiority of their culture and civilization. They saw imperialism as a way to spread American values and institutions to other parts of the world.

Consequences of American Imperialism

• Acquisition of Territories:The United States acquired vast territories, including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines, through imperialism.
• Economic Growth:Imperialism provided new markets for American goods and access to raw materials, stimulating economic growth.
• Global Influence:The United States became a major player in world affairs, with its influence extending to Asia, Latin America, and Europe.
• Social and Cultural Changes:Imperialism brought the United States into contact with different cultures and ideas, leading to changes in American society and culture.

Key Events and Figures

Key Events:

• Spanish-American War (1898):The United States defeated Spain, acquiring Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
• Annexation of Hawaii (1898):The United States annexed the independent Republic of Hawaii.
• Open Door Policy (1899-1900):The United States sought to maintain equal access to trade in China.
• Panama Canal (1903-1914):The United States built the Panama Canal, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Key Figures:

• William McKinley:President who led the United States into the Spanish-American War and supported imperialism.
• Theodore Roosevelt:President who promoted the “Big Stick” policy and expanded American influence in Latin America.
• Woodrow Wilson:President who pursued a policy of “Moral Diplomacy” but also intervened in Latin America.

Progressivism

Progressivism was a reform movement in the United States in the early 20th century that sought to address social, economic, and political problems created by industrialization and urbanization.

Progressives believed that government should play an active role in regulating the economy and protecting the interests of ordinary citizens. They advocated for a wide range of reforms, including the regulation of trusts and monopolies, the establishment of a graduated income tax, and the expansion of social welfare programs.

Key Figures and Organizations

Key figures in the Progressive movement included President Theodore Roosevelt, who supported trust-busting and conservation; President Woodrow Wilson, who pushed for progressive reforms such as the Federal Reserve System and the Clayton Antitrust Act; and social reformers such as Jane Addams and Ida Tarbell.

Important organizations in the Progressive movement included the National Consumers League, which fought for the rights of consumers; the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), which fought for civil rights; and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which fought for civil liberties.

Impact on American Society and Government

Progressivism had a profound impact on American society and government. Progressive reforms helped to break up monopolies, protect consumers, and expand social welfare programs. They also led to the establishment of new government agencies, such as the Federal Trade Commission and the Food and Drug Administration, to regulate the economy and protect the public.

World War I

World War I, a global conflict that raged from 1914 to 1918, profoundly impacted the United States, transforming its role in international affairs and shaping its domestic society.

Causes

The United States’ entry into World War I was prompted by a complex interplay of factors. German submarine warfare, particularly the sinking of the passenger ship Lusitania in 1915, stirred public outrage. Additionally, American economic interests were threatened by British naval blockades and German submarine attacks on American merchant ships.

Consequences

World War I had far-reaching consequences for the United States. It led to the loss of over 116,000 American lives and left an enduring legacy of sacrifice and loss. The war also propelled the United States to global prominence, establishing it as a major world power.

Key Battles and Figures

American forces played a crucial role in several key battles of World War I, including the Second Battle of the Marne and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Notable American figures involved in the war include General John J. Pershing, the commander of the American Expeditionary Forces, and President Woodrow Wilson, who guided the country through the conflict.

Impact on American Society and Government

World War I left a lasting impact on American society and government. The war effort mobilized the nation’s economy, leading to the growth of heavy industry and the expansion of government power. It also spurred the emergence of new social movements, such as the women’s suffrage movement, which gained momentum during the war.

The Roaring Twenties

The Roaring Twenties, a decade of economic prosperity and social change, left an enduring mark on American history. The Great Depression, which began in 1929, cast a long shadow over the decade, leading to widespread unemployment and economic hardship.

Social Changes

• Urbanization and Migration:Cities grew rapidly as people sought opportunities in industry and commerce. The Great Migration brought millions of African Americans from the rural South to northern cities.
• Women’s Suffrage and Changing Roles:The 19th Amendment granted women the right to vote, leading to increased participation in politics and the workforce.
• Prohibition and Speakeasies:The 18th Amendment prohibited the sale, manufacture, and transportation of alcohol, giving rise to speakeasies and organized crime.
• Consumerism and Mass Culture:Advertising and mass production led to a surge in consumer spending, fostering a culture of materialism and leisure.

Economic Changes

• Economic Boom:The post-war economy soared, driven by industries such as automobiles, construction, and entertainment.
• Stock Market Speculation:The stock market boomed as investors bought stocks on margin, leading to a speculative bubble.
• Overproduction and Wage Stagnation:Industries produced more goods than consumers could buy, leading to overproduction and wage stagnation for workers.
• Financial Instability:Banks made risky loans and invested heavily in the stock market, contributing to the financial instability that led to the Great Depression.

Cultural Changes

• The Jazz Age:Jazz music emerged as a popular form of entertainment, symbolizing the cultural vibrancy of the era.
• Modernism in Art and Literature:Artists and writers embraced modernism, challenging traditional forms and experimenting with new styles.
• Mass Media and Popular Culture:Radio, movies, and newspapers became increasingly influential, shaping public opinion and popular culture.
• Sports and Entertainment:Sports, especially baseball and boxing, gained immense popularity, becoming symbols of American identity and success.

World War II

World War II, the deadliest conflict in human history, profoundly impacted the United States. Its origins lie in the rise of fascism and militarism in Europe and Asia, exacerbated by global economic instability and territorial disputes.The war’s consequences for the US were far-reaching.

It accelerated the nation’s economic recovery from the Great Depression, leading to unprecedented prosperity and technological advancements. However, the war also took a heavy toll in terms of human life and resources, leaving a lasting legacy on American society and government.

Key Battles and Figures

Among the most significant battles of World War II were the Battle of the Bulge, the D-Day landings, and the Battle of Okinawa. Key figures included President Franklin D. Roosevelt, General Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Winston Churchill.

Impact on American Society and Government

The war transformed American society. Women entered the workforce in record numbers, and racial tensions intensified due to the influx of African American workers into previously segregated industries. The government expanded its role in the economy and established new social welfare programs, shaping the nation’s future course.

The Cold War

The Cold War, an era of geopolitical tension between the United States and the Soviet Union, marked a profound period in global history. Its origins lie in the aftermath of World War II, when ideological differences and power struggles between the two superpowers escalated.

Causes of the Cold War

* Ideological Differences:The US, a capitalist democracy, and the USSR, a communist state, held fundamentally opposing views on political and economic systems.

Power Vacuum in Europe

The devastation of World War II created a power vacuum in Europe, which both the US and USSR sought to fill.

Nuclear Weapons

The development and possession of nuclear weapons by both sides heightened tensions and created a balance of terror.

Mutual Distrust

Historical mistrust and suspicions between the two nations further fueled the Cold War.

Consequences of the Cold War

* Nuclear Arms Race:The Cold War triggered an intense nuclear arms race, leading to a massive buildup of weapons and the constant threat of nuclear war.

Proxy Wars

The US and USSR engaged in proxy wars, supporting opposing sides in conflicts around the world.

Division of Europe

The Cold War resulted in the division of Europe into two blocs: NATO (Western alliance) and the Warsaw Pact (Soviet bloc).

Global Tensions

The Cold War created a pervasive sense of tension and fear throughout the world.

The Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement in the United States emerged as a response to the persistent racial discrimination and segregation faced by African Americans. Its origins can be traced back to the abolitionist movement of the 19th century and the Reconstruction Era, which aimed to establish equality for freed slaves.Key

Period 9 APUSH is a class that covers the history of the United States from 1945 to the present. Some of the key concepts that are covered in this class include the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Vietnam War.

To help students prepare for the upcoming chapter 6 mid chapter test , they should review these key concepts and make sure that they understand the major events and trends that occurred during this time period.

events and figures in the Civil Rights Movement include:

• Brown v. Board of Education (1954):A landmark Supreme Court case that ruled school segregation unconstitutional, overturning the “separate but equal” doctrine established in Plessy v. Ferguson (1896).
• Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955-1956):A year-long protest led by Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks against racial segregation on public buses in Montgomery, Alabama.
• Civil Rights Act of 1964:A landmark legislation that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in employment, public accommodations, and government programs.
• Voting Rights Act of 1965:A law that prohibited racial discrimination in voting and established federal oversight of voter registration and elections in areas with a history of voter suppression.

The Civil Rights Movement had a profound impact on American society and government. It led to the desegregation of schools, public places, and transportation systems, and the enfranchisement of African Americans. It also raised awareness of racial inequality and inspired other social justice movements.

The Vietnam War

The Vietnam War, a complex and controversial conflict, had profound consequences for the United States. It began as a civil war in South Vietnam between the communist North and the US-backed South. The US became increasingly involved, culminating in a full-scale war that lasted from 1964 to 1973.

Causes

The Vietnam War had numerous causes, including the Cold War rivalry between the US and the Soviet Union, the spread of communism in Southeast Asia, and the Vietnamese people’s desire for independence and unification. The US feared that a communist victory in Vietnam would lead to the spread of communism throughout the region.

Consequences

The Vietnam War had significant consequences for the United States, both domestically and internationally. The war was a costly and unpopular conflict that led to the deaths of over 58,000 American soldiers and an estimated 2 million Vietnamese civilians. The war also divided American society, with anti-war protests and demonstrations becoming increasingly common.

The war’s legacy continues to be debated today, with its impact still felt in American politics and foreign policy.

Key Battles and Figures

The Vietnam War was marked by several key battles and figures. The Battle of Dien Bien Phu (1954) resulted in a decisive French defeat and the eventual withdrawal of French forces from Vietnam. The Gulf of Tonkin Incident (1964) provided the pretext for the US to escalate its involvement in the war.

The Tet Offensive (1968) was a major North Vietnamese offensive that resulted in heavy casualties on both sides and turned American public opinion against the war.Prominent figures in the war included President Lyndon B. Johnson, who authorized the escalation of US involvement, and General William Westmoreland, who commanded US forces in Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh, the leader of North Vietnam, was a key figure in the communist resistance against the US.

Impact on American Society and Government

The Vietnam War had a profound impact on American society and government. The war led to widespread anti-war protests and demonstrations, which challenged the authority of the government and contributed to a decline in public trust. The war also led to a rise in political polarization and a loss of faith in the government’s ability to conduct foreign policy effectively.The

Vietnam War had a lasting impact on American foreign policy. The war led to a reassessment of the US role in the world and a shift towards a more cautious approach to interventionism. The war also led to the development of the War Powers Act (1973), which limited the president’s ability to commit US forces to combat without congressional approval.

The End of the Cold War

The Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the United States and the Soviet Union, ended in 1991. Its conclusion marked a significant turning point in world history. The end of the Cold War had profound causes and consequences, reshaping international relations and domestic societies worldwide.The

causes of the Cold War’s end are complex and multifaceted. One key factor was the economic decline of the Soviet Union. The Soviet economy had been stagnant for years, and by the late 1980s, it was on the brink of collapse.

This economic weakness made it difficult for the Soviet Union to sustain its military spending and maintain its global influence.Another factor that contributed to the end of the Cold War was the rise of Mikhail Gorbachev as the leader of the Soviet Union.

Gorbachev was a reformer who believed that the Soviet Union needed to change in order to survive. He introduced a series of reforms, including glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring). These reforms led to greater freedom and democracy in the Soviet Union, but they also weakened the Communist Party’s control over the country.The

end of the Cold War had a profound impact on the United States and the Soviet Union. In the United States, the end of the Cold War led to a period of economic prosperity and social change. The United States emerged from the Cold War as the world’s sole superpower, and its influence extended to all corners of the globe.In

the Soviet Union, the end of the Cold War led to a period of political and economic instability. The Soviet Union dissolved in 1991, and its constituent republics became independent states. The end of the Soviet Union also led to a decline in the Russian economy and a rise in social unrest.The

end of the Cold War had a significant impact on international relations. The Cold War had divided the world into two blocs, and its end led to a more fluid and complex international system. The United States emerged from the Cold War as the world’s dominant power, but it faced new challenges from rising powers such as China and India.The

end of the Cold War also had a profound impact on American society and government. The Cold War had been a defining feature of American life for over four decades, and its end led to a period of readjustment. The United States had to find new ways to define its role in the world and to address the challenges of a post-Cold War era.

Key Events and Figures Involved in the End of the Cold War

• The rise of Mikhail Gorbachev as the leader of the Soviet Union in 1985
• Gorbachev’s introduction of glasnost and perestroika
• The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989
• The reunification of Germany in 1990
• The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991
• The United States’ emergence as the world’s sole superpower

Impact of the End of the Cold War on American Society and Government

• The end of the Cold War led to a period of economic prosperity in the United States
• The end of the Cold War led to a decline in military spending in the United States
• The end of the Cold War led to a reassessment of America’s role in the world
• The end of the Cold War led to a period of political and social change in the United States

The 21st Century

The 21st century has brought about significant challenges and opportunities for the United States. The country has faced issues such as terrorism, economic inequality, and climate change. However, it has also made progress in areas such as technology, globalization, and social justice.

Technology

Technology has had a major impact on the United States in the 21st century. The internet has revolutionized the way people communicate, learn, and do business. Social media has allowed people to connect with each other in new ways. And advances in artificial intelligence and robotics are changing the way people work and live.

Globalization

Globalization has also had a major impact on the United States. The country has become increasingly interconnected with the rest of the world. This has led to increased trade and investment, but it has also led to challenges such as job loss and economic inequality.

Climate Change

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges facing the United States in the 21st century. The country is already experiencing the effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels, more extreme weather events, and changes in plant and animal life.

Question & Answer Hub

What is the significance of the American Revolution?

The American Revolution marked a pivotal moment in American history, leading to the establishment of an independent nation founded on the principles of liberty, democracy, and self-governance.

How did the Civil War impact American society?

The Civil War had a profound impact on American society, resulting in the abolition of slavery, the strengthening of the federal government, and the onset of Reconstruction, a period of significant social and political transformation.

What were the key factors that contributed to the Industrial Revolution?

The Industrial Revolution was driven by a combination of factors, including technological advancements, the availability of raw materials, a growing labor force, and the expansion of markets.