American Pageant Chapter 22 Notes: Unveiling the Progressive Era and America’s Rise to Global Prominence

This chapter delves into the transformative Progressive Era, a period marked by sweeping reforms and the expansion of federal power. It explores the factors that fueled the Progressive movement, the key individuals and organizations that shaped it, and the major reforms achieved during this time.

The chapter also examines the evolution of American foreign policy from isolationism to global engagement, tracing the events that led to the United States’ involvement in World War I and analyzing its impact on American society and its role in the world.

American Pageant: Chapter 22

Chapter 22 of American Pageant examines the period of significant transformation and upheaval in American history from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. It explores the Progressive Era, the expansion of federal power, the United States’ emergence as a world power, the Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression, the New Deal, the Second World War, and the Cold War.

The Progressive Era: A New Spirit of Reform: American Pageant Chapter 22 Notes

The Progressive Era, spanning the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was characterized by a surge of reform movements seeking to address social, economic, and political problems of the time. This era witnessed the rise of influential individuals like Jane Addams, Ida B.

Wells-Barnett, and Theodore Roosevelt, who championed reforms in areas such as labor rights, women’s suffrage, and environmental conservation.

Key Reforms of the Progressive Era

• Pure Food and Drug Act (1906)
• Meat Inspection Act (1906)
• Clayton Antitrust Act (1914)
• Federal Reserve Act (1913)
• Nineteenth Amendment (1920): Granted women the right to vote

The Expansion of Federal Power

During the Progressive Era and beyond, the balance of power between the federal government and the states shifted significantly towards the federal government. This expansion was driven by factors such as the rise of big business, the increasing complexity of society, and the need for a more active role in addressing national issues.

Role of Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson

Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson played pivotal roles in expanding federal authority. Roosevelt’s “Square Deal” emphasized the need for government regulation of business, while Wilson’s “New Freedom” sought to restore economic competition and limit the power of monopolies.

Impact of Supreme Court Decisions

Supreme Court decisions during this period also contributed to the growth of federal power. Notable cases like Gibbons v. Ogden (1824) and McCulloch v. Maryland (1819) established the federal government’s authority over interstate commerce and its implied powers under the Constitution.

The United States as a World Power

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a turning point in American foreign policy as the United States transitioned from isolationism to global engagement. Factors such as the Spanish-American War, the acquisition of overseas territories, and the rise of industrialization pushed the country towards a more active role in world affairs.

Factors Leading to US Involvement in World War I

• German submarine warfare targeting American ships
• The Zimmerman Telegram, a secret German proposal to Mexico to form an alliance against the US
• Public outrage over the sinking of the Lusitania

Impact of World War I

The United States’ involvement in World War I had a profound impact on American society and its role in the world. The war stimulated economic growth, accelerated social changes, and solidified the country’s status as a major global power.

The Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression

The 1920s, known as the “Roaring Twenties,” witnessed a period of economic prosperity and social change in the United States. This era was characterized by technological advancements, the rise of consumer culture, and the loosening of social norms.

Causes of the Great Depression

The Great Depression, which began in 1929, was a severe economic downturn that had devastating consequences for the United States and the world. Factors contributing to the Depression included:

• Overspeculation in the stock market
• High tariffs and trade barriers
• Unequal distribution of wealth
• Agricultural surpluses

Impact of the Great Depression, American pageant chapter 22 notes

The Great Depression had a profound impact on American society and the economy, leading to widespread unemployment, poverty, and social unrest.

The New Deal and the Second World War

The New Deal, a series of programs and reforms enacted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, aimed to address the economic and social problems of the Great Depression. The New Deal had a mixed record, providing some relief but also expanding the role of the federal government.

Impact of the New Deal

• Stimulated economic growth
• Created jobs and provided relief to the unemployed
• Established social welfare programs like Social Security

US Involvement in World War II

The United States entered World War II after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. The war had a transformative impact on American society, mobilizing the nation’s resources and leading to the development of new technologies and industries.

The Cold War and the Postwar Era

The Cold War, an ideological conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union, dominated the second half of the 20th century. This period was characterized by intense rivalry, arms races, and proxy wars.

Origins of the Cold War

• Soviet expansionism in Eastern Europe
• US fears of communism
• Ideological differences between capitalism and communism

Impact of the Cold War

• Shaped US foreign policy and domestic affairs
• Led to the development of the military-industrial complex
• Promoted a climate of fear and suspicion

Social and Cultural Changes of the Postwar Era

The postwar era witnessed significant social and cultural changes, including:

• Economic prosperity and the rise of the middle class
• Increased suburbanization and the growth of cities
• The rise of television and mass media

Quick FAQs

What were the key factors that led to the rise of the Progressive movement?

The Progressive movement emerged in response to the social, economic, and political problems created by rapid industrialization and urbanization, including widespread poverty, corruption, and the lack of government regulation of businesses.

Who were some of the key individuals involved in the Progressive movement?

Prominent figures in the Progressive movement included Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Jane Addams, and Upton Sinclair.

What were some of the major reforms achieved during the Progressive Era?

Progressive Era reforms included the establishment of the Federal Reserve System, the passage of antitrust laws, the introduction of food and drug safety regulations, and the expansion of voting rights for women.