Embark on an enlightening journey through Chapter 16 AMSCO APUSH Notes, where we delve into the transformative eras that shaped the United States. From the Progressive Era to the Biden Era, this chapter unveils the complexities of American history, exploring the social, economic, and political forces that have molded the nation we know today.

Prepare to encounter key figures, groundbreaking events, and pivotal decisions that have left an enduring legacy on the American landscape. As we navigate the pages of these notes, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and ongoing struggles that have shaped the American experience.

The Progressive Era

The Progressive Era was a period of significant social, economic, and political reforms in the United States that began in the late 19th century and extended into the early 20th century. The movement aimed to address the problems created by rapid industrialization and urbanization, including poverty, corruption, and social inequality.

ParagraphProgressives advocated for a range of reforms, including:

Social Reforms

• Improving working conditions and wages for laborers
• Enacting child labor laws and compulsory education
• Providing social welfare programs for the poor and disadvantaged

Economic Reforms

• Regulating monopolies and trusts to prevent unfair competition
• Protecting consumers from unsafe products and deceptive advertising
• Expanding the role of government in regulating the economy

Political Reforms

• Expanding voting rights through initiatives like the 17th Amendment
• Introducing direct primaries and the initiative and referendum processes
• Fighting political corruption and advocating for campaign finance reform

Key Figures

• Theodore Roosevelt: President who championed the “Square Deal” for all Americans
• Woodrow Wilson: President who introduced progressive reforms, including the Federal Reserve System
• Jane Addams: Social reformer and founder of Hull House, a settlement house in Chicago
• Ida Tarbell: Investigative journalist who exposed the corrupt practices of Standard Oil

Impact on American Society

The Progressive Era had a profound impact on American society. It led to the establishment of many social welfare programs, the regulation of the economy, and the expansion of voting rights. It also fostered a spirit of activism and civic engagement that continues to shape American politics today.

World War I

World War I, also known as the Great War, was a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918. It was one of the deadliest conflicts in history, with an estimated 8.5 million military deaths and 13 million civilian deaths.

The war had a profound impact on the political, economic, and social landscape of the world.

Causes of World War I

The causes of World War I are complex and multifaceted. Some of the key factors that contributed to the outbreak of the war include:

• Imperialism:By the early 20th century, European powers had established vast empires around the world. Competition for colonies and resources led to tensions between the major powers.
• Nationalism:The rise of nationalism in Europe led to increased tensions between nations. Each country sought to assert its dominance and protect its national interests.
• Militarism:In the years leading up to the war, European powers engaged in a massive arms race. This created a climate of fear and suspicion.
• Alliances:By 1914, Europe was divided into two major alliances: the Triple Alliance (Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Italy) and the Triple Entente (France, Russia, and Great Britain). These alliances obligated each country to come to the aid of its allies in the event of war.

Major Events of World War I

The war began on July 28, 1914, when Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. The conflict quickly escalated into a global war, with all the major European powers involved. The war was fought on two main fronts: the Western Front in Europe and the Eastern Front in Russia.

The war was characterized by brutal trench warfare, with both sides suffering heavy casualties. The introduction of new technologies, such as machine guns and poison gas, made the war even more deadly.

Impact of World War I on the United States

The United States initially remained neutral in World War I. However, the sinking of the Lusitania by a German U-boat in 1915 and the Zimmerman Telegram in 1917 led the United States to declare war on Germany. The United States’ entry into the war helped to tip the balance in favor of the Allies.

The war had a profound impact on the United States. It led to the deaths of over 116,000 American soldiers and sailors. It also caused a major economic boom, as American factories produced war materials for the Allies.

Impact of World War I on the World

World War I had a devastating impact on the world. It led to the deaths of millions of people and the destruction of vast amounts of property. The war also led to the collapse of several empires, including the Ottoman Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the Russian Empire.

The war also had a profound impact on the political landscape of the world. It led to the creation of new nation-states, such as Poland and Czechoslovakia. It also led to the rise of new ideologies, such as communism and fascism.

Treaty of Versailles, Chapter 16 amsco apush notes

The Treaty of Versailles was the peace treaty that ended World War I. It was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles in France.

The treaty was very harsh on Germany. It required Germany to give up territory to the Allied powers, pay reparations, and disarm its military. The treaty also placed the blame for the war on Germany.

The Treaty of Versailles had a number of negative consequences. It led to widespread resentment in Germany and contributed to the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party. It also helped to create the conditions that led to World War II.

The Roaring Twenties

The 1920s was a period of profound social, economic, and cultural change in the United States. The war had ended, and the country was enjoying a period of prosperity. New technologies and ideas were emerging, and people were eager to embrace them.

The Roaring Twenties was a time of great optimism and change.

Social Changes

The 1920s saw a number of important social changes. Women gained the right to vote, and they began to enter the workforce in large numbers. The traditional family structure began to break down, and people began to live more independently.

The rise of the automobile and the radio made it possible for people to travel and communicate more easily, and these technologies helped to create a more connected society.

Economic Changes

The 1920s was a time of great economic prosperity. The stock market boomed, and many people made fortunes. The government also played a role in the economy, passing laws that encouraged businesses to invest and expand. The result was a period of economic growth that lasted for most of the decade.

Cultural Changes

The 1920s was also a time of great cultural change. New forms of music and art emerged, and people began to dress and behave in new ways. The flappers of the 1920s were a symbol of the new, liberated woman, and they challenged traditional notions of femininity.

The rise of mass culture also helped to shape the culture of the 1920s. Movies, radio, and newspapers became more popular than ever before, and they helped to create a more homogeneous American culture.

Prohibition

One of the most controversial aspects of the 1920s was Prohibition. In 1920, the 18th Amendment to the Constitution was passed, which prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol. Prohibition was intended to reduce crime and improve public health, but it had the opposite effect.

It led to the rise of organized crime, and it made it difficult for people to obtain alcohol legally. As a result, Prohibition was repealed in 1933.

Consumerism and Mass Culture

The 1920s was also a time of great consumerism and mass culture. New technologies made it possible for people to buy more goods than ever before, and they began to spend more money on entertainment and leisure activities. The rise of mass culture also helped to shape the consumer culture of the 1920s.

Movies, radio, and newspapers became more popular than ever before, and they helped to create a more homogeneous American culture.

The Great Depression

The Great Depression, a global economic crisis, ravaged the United States and the world in the 1930s. Its causes were multifaceted, including the unregulated financial system, stock market crash, and international trade imbalances.

The Great Depression unfolded in phases. The stock market crash of 1929 triggered a domino effect, leading to widespread panic and a loss of confidence in the financial system. Businesses closed, unemployment soared, and consumer spending plummeted. The crisis spread globally as international trade dried up.

Impact of the Great Depression

The Great Depression had a devastating impact on the United States and the world. Unemployment rates reached unprecedented levels, with millions losing their jobs and falling into poverty. The lack of income led to widespread hunger, homelessness, and social unrest.

Internationally, the Great Depression crippled economies and exacerbated social and political tensions. Countries turned inward, adopting protectionist policies that hindered global trade and further worsened the crisis.

The New Deal

In response to the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt implemented the New Deal, a series of economic and social programs aimed at stabilizing the economy and providing relief to the American people.

• Relief:Programs like the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) provided direct aid to the unemployed and needy.
• Recovery:Projects like the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Public Works Administration (PWA) created jobs and stimulated economic activity.
• Reform:The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) were established to regulate the financial system and protect depositors.

The New Deal had mixed results. It provided much-needed relief to the suffering population and laid the foundation for future economic recovery. However, it also increased the role of government in the economy and failed to fully address the underlying causes of the Great Depression.

World War II

World War II, the deadliest conflict in human history, erupted in 1939 and raged for six years, involving more than 30 countries and leaving an estimated 40-85 million people dead. The war’s origins can be traced to the rise of fascism in Europe, the failure of the League of Nations, and the aggressive expansionism of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan.

Causes of World War II

The following factors contributed to the outbreak of World War II:

• Treaty of Versailles: The harsh terms imposed on Germany after World War I left a deep sense of resentment and a desire for revenge.
• Rise of Fascism: In the 1920s and 1930s, fascist dictatorships emerged in Italy, Germany, and Japan, promoting aggressive nationalism and militarism.
• Failure of the League of Nations: The League of Nations, established after World War I to prevent future conflicts, proved ineffective in resolving international disputes.
• German Expansionism: Under Adolf Hitler, Germany began to rearm and expand its territory, violating the Treaty of Versailles.
• Japanese Aggression: Japan embarked on a campaign of conquest in Asia, seizing Manchuria in 1931 and invading China in 1937.

Major Events of World War II

The war began with Germany’s invasion of Poland in 1939. Key events included:

• Battle of Britain: The Royal Air Force successfully defended the United Kingdom against German air raids in 1940.
• Operation Barbarossa: Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941, leading to a massive and bloody conflict.
• Pearl Harbor: Japan attacked the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor in 1941, bringing the United States into the war.
• D-Day: Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy, France, in 1944, opening a second front against Germany.
• Atomic Bombs: The United States dropped atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, forcing Japan’s surrender.

The Cold War: Chapter 16 Amsco Apush Notes

The Cold War, a period of intense rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union, began in the aftermath of World War II and lasted for over four decades. The conflict was ideological, economic, and political, with each side vying for global dominance.

Origins and Major Events

The Cold War emerged from the geopolitical tensions between the two superpowers. The United States, a capitalist democracy, and the Soviet Union, a communist state, had opposing visions for the post-war world. Key events that fueled the conflict included:

The Truman Doctrine (1947)

The United States pledged to support nations threatened by communism.

The Marshall Plan (1948)

The United States provided economic aid to Western Europe to rebuild after the war.

The Berlin Blockade (1948-1949)

The Soviet Union blocked access to West Berlin, leading to a tense standoff with the United States.

The Korean War (1950-1953)

A proxy war between the United States and the Soviet Union that escalated tensions further.

Impact on the United States and the World

The Cold War had a profound impact on both the United States and the world. Domestically, it led to:

• Increased military spending and the creation of a military-industrial complex.
• McCarthyism and the “Red Scare,” a period of political repression against suspected communists.
• The Space Race, a competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to achieve space exploration milestones.

Internationally, the Cold War:

Divided the world into two spheres of influence

the Western bloc and the Eastern bloc.

• Led to the formation of military alliances such as NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) and the Warsaw Pact.
• Created a climate of fear and suspicion, as each side feared nuclear war.

The Cuban Missile Crisis and the Berlin Wall

Two pivotal events during the Cold War were the Cuban Missile Crisis and the construction of the Berlin Wall.

• -*Cuban Missile Crisis (1962)

  The Soviet Union secretly deployed nuclear missiles in Cuba, prompting a tense standoff with the United States. The crisis was resolved through diplomacy, but it brought the world to the brink of nuclear war.

-*Berlin Wall (1961)

The Soviet Union erected a wall to divide East and West Berlin, effectively sealing off East Germany from the West. The wall became a symbol of the Cold War division and the repression of East Germans.

The Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement was a period of social activism and protest that aimed to end racial discrimination and segregation in the United States. It originated in the mid-20th century and gained momentum in the 1950s and 1960s.The movement was sparked by a series of events, including the Supreme Court’s decision in Brown v.

Board of Education (1954), which ruled that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. This decision was met with resistance in many parts of the country, leading to protests and boycotts by African Americans.

The Vietnam War

The Vietnam War was a major conflict that took place in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia from the 1950s to 1975. The war was fought between the communist North Vietnam, supported by the Soviet Union and China, and the US-backed South Vietnam.

The war had a profound impact on both the United States and Vietnam, and it remains a controversial topic today.

Causes of the Vietnam War

The Vietnam War had its roots in the Cold War rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union. The United States was determined to prevent the spread of communism in Southeast Asia, while the Soviet Union was eager to support communist movements in the region.

In addition, the Vietnamese people had a long history of fighting for independence from foreign powers, and they were determined to unify their country under communist rule.

Major Events of the Vietnam War

The Vietnam War began in the early 1950s with a guerrilla war waged by the communist Viet Cong against the US-backed South Vietnamese government. The United States gradually increased its involvement in the war, and by 1965, there were over 500,000 American troops in Vietnam.

The war was fought on both sides with great brutality, and it resulted in the deaths of millions of Vietnamese civilians and soldiers.

Impact of the Vietnam War on the United States

The Vietnam War had a profound impact on the United States. The war was unpopular at home, and it led to widespread protests and anti-war sentiment. The war also caused a decline in trust in the government, and it contributed to the rise of the counterculture movement.

Chapter 16 of the Amsco APUSH notes covers various topics in American history. While it’s important to grasp these concepts, it’s also essential to take a break from studying and explore other fascinating subjects. If you’re curious about the mating habits of eagles, check out this informative diagram: how do eagles mate diagram . It provides a detailed visual representation of the process.

After exploring this interesting topic, be sure to return to Chapter 16 of your Amsco notes to continue your studies.

In addition, the war had a significant economic impact on the United States, and it led to a rise in inflation and unemployment.

Impact of the Vietnam War on Vietnam

The Vietnam War had a devastating impact on Vietnam. The war caused widespread death and destruction, and it left the country deeply divided. The war also had a significant impact on the Vietnamese economy, and it led to a decline in living standards.

In addition, the war caused a brain drain, as many educated Vietnamese fled the country.

Significance of the Anti-War Movement

The anti-war movement was a major force in the United States during the Vietnam War. The movement was made up of people from all walks of life, and it included both young and old, men and women, and black and white.

The anti-war movement organized protests and demonstrations, and it lobbied Congress to end the war. The anti-war movement played a major role in bringing about the end of the Vietnam War.

The Watergate Scandal

The Watergate scandal was a major political scandal that occurred in the United States during the presidency of Richard Nixon. The scandal began with the break-in of the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate office complex in Washington, D.C.,

on June 17, 1972. The break-in was part of a larger plan by the Nixon administration to spy on and sabotage the Democratic Party during the 1972 presidential election.

Key Figures

Several key figures were involved in the Watergate scandal, including:

• Richard Nixon: President of the United States
• H.R. Haldeman: Nixon’s chief of staff
• John Ehrlichman: Nixon’s domestic affairs adviser
• John Mitchell: Nixon’s attorney general
• G. Gordon Liddy: Former FBI agent who planned the Watergate break-in
• E. Howard Hunt: Former CIA agent who participated in the Watergate break-in
• James McCord: Security guard who was arrested during the Watergate break-in
• Martha Mitchell: Wife of Attorney General John Mitchell, who was a vocal critic of the Nixon administration

Impact of the Scandal

The Watergate scandal had a profound impact on American politics and society. The scandal led to the resignation of President Nixon in August 1974, making him the only U.S. president to resign from office. The scandal also led to the passage of the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, which established new rules for campaign financing and lobbying.

Impeachment Proceedings

The House of Representatives voted to impeach President Nixon on July 27, 1974, on charges of obstruction of justice, perjury, and abuse of power. However, the Senate did not vote to convict Nixon, and he was allowed to remain in office until he resigned.

The Reagan Era

The Reagan Era, marked by the presidency of Ronald Reagan from 1981 to 1989, was characterized by conservative policies and significant economic and foreign policy shifts.

Reaganomics

Reaganomics, the economic policies implemented during the Reagan Era, aimed to reduce government spending, cut taxes, and deregulate industries. These policies were intended to stimulate economic growth and reduce inflation.

• Tax cuts:Reagan implemented significant tax cuts for individuals and businesses, aiming to boost investment and consumption.
• Reduced government spending:Reagan sought to reduce federal spending by cutting programs and services, particularly in social welfare areas.
• Deregulation:Reagan removed government regulations on industries, particularly in transportation, energy, and finance, aiming to increase competition and economic efficiency.

Impact of Reaganomics

Reaganomics had a mixed impact on the US economy. While it led to initial economic growth, it also contributed to a widening gap between the wealthy and the poor and an increase in the national debt.

• Economic growth:Reaganomics initially stimulated economic growth, with GDP increasing significantly during the 1980s.
• Increased inequality:Tax cuts and reduced government spending disproportionately benefited the wealthy, leading to a widening income gap.
• Increased national debt:Reagan’s tax cuts and increased military spending led to a significant increase in the national debt.

Cold War and the End of the Soviet Union

The Reagan Era coincided with the final stages of the Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the United States and the Soviet Union. Reagan’s hardline stance against communism, including his “Star Wars” missile defense program, played a role in the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.

• Increased military spending:Reagan significantly increased military spending, particularly on nuclear weapons and missile defense systems.
• Confrontational rhetoric:Reagan adopted a confrontational approach towards the Soviet Union, labeling it an “evil empire” and challenging its influence.
• Collapse of the Soviet Union:Reagan’s policies and the economic struggles faced by the Soviet Union contributed to its eventual collapse in 1991.

The Clinton Era

The Clinton Era, spanning from 1993 to 2001, marked a period of economic prosperity and political turmoil. President Bill Clinton’s policies focused on economic growth, welfare reform, and healthcare expansion.

One of the most significant events of the Clinton Era was the Lewinsky scandal, a sexual harassment allegation that led to Clinton’s impeachment by the House of Representatives. Despite the scandal, Clinton was acquitted by the Senate and remained in office.

Clinton’s Economic Policies

• Balanced Budget Act of 1997: Reduced the federal deficit and created a budget surplus.
• North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA): Promoted free trade between the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Welfare Reform

• Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996: Replaced welfare with a system of time-limited assistance and work requirements.

Healthcare Expansion

• Failed attempt to pass universal healthcare: Clinton proposed a comprehensive healthcare plan that faced strong opposition from Republicans and some Democrats.

The Lewinsky Scandal

In 1998, Clinton was accused of having an extramarital affair with Monica Lewinsky, a White House intern. The scandal led to Clinton’s impeachment by the House of Representatives on charges of perjury and obstruction of justice.

The Impeachment Proceedings

The Senate trial of Clinton began in January 1999. Clinton was acquitted on both charges and remained in office. The impeachment proceedings were highly partisan, with Republicans supporting impeachment and Democrats opposing it.

The Bush Era

The Bush Era, marked by the presidency of George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009, was a transformative period in American history. Shaped by the events of September 11th, 2001, the era witnessed significant shifts in foreign and domestic policy, including the launch of the War on Terror and the implementation of the No Child Left Behind Act.

The September 11th Attacks

On September 11th, 2001, a series of coordinated terrorist attacks by al-Qaeda against the United States resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people. The attacks had a profound impact on the nation, leading to heightened security measures, increased military spending, and a shift in foreign policy towards a more aggressive stance against terrorism.

The War on Terror

In response to the September 11th attacks, the Bush administration launched the War on Terror, a global campaign against terrorism. The war involved military action in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as increased surveillance and intelligence gathering. The War on Terror has had a lasting impact on American foreign policy and civil liberties.

Domestic Policy

Domestically, the Bush Era saw the implementation of the No Child Left Behind Act, an education reform law aimed at improving student achievement. The act introduced standardized testing and accountability measures into public schools. Other significant domestic initiatives included tax cuts, Medicare prescription drug coverage, and the creation of the Department of Homeland Security.

The Obama Era

The Obama Era marked a significant period in American history, characterized by both progress and challenges. President Barack Obama took office in 2009 amidst the Great Recession, the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. His administration implemented policies aimed at economic recovery, healthcare reform, and addressing climate change.

The Great Recession

The Great Recession, which began in December 2007, had a profound impact on the United States economy. The collapse of the housing market and subsequent financial crisis led to a sharp decline in economic activity, job losses, and a rise in unemployment.

The Obama administration responded with a series of measures, including the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which provided stimulus to the economy.

The Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, was a landmark piece of legislation passed in 2010. The law aimed to expand health insurance coverage to millions of Americans, regulate the health insurance industry, and reduce the cost of healthcare.

The Affordable Care Act has been controversial, with supporters praising its benefits and opponents criticizing its costs and complexity.

The Trump Era

The Trump Era, marked by the presidency of Donald Trump from 2017 to 2021, was a period of significant political and social change in the United States. Trump’s policies and actions had a profound impact on American politics, society, and the international community.

Domestic Policies

• Tax cuts for corporations and wealthy individuals
• Deregulation of industries, including environmental and financial sectors
• Increased military spending and border security measures
• Appointment of conservative judges to the Supreme Court
• Restriction on immigration, including a travel ban on citizens from several Muslim-majority countries

Foreign Policy

• Withdrawal from international agreements, such as the Paris Climate Accord and the Iran nuclear deal
• Imposition of tariffs on imports from China and other countries
• Normalization of relations with North Korea
• Assassination of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani

Social and Political Impact

• Increased political polarization and division
• Rise of white nationalism and alt-right groups
• Attacks on the media and institutions of democracy
• Impeachment proceedings against Trump for abuse of power and obstruction of justice

The Biden Era

The Biden Era began with the inauguration of Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States on January 20, 2021. His presidency has been marked by a number of significant events, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan, and the passage of the American Rescue Plan Act.

COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the United States. The virus has caused widespread illness and death, and it has also led to significant economic disruption. The Biden administration has taken a number of steps to address the pandemic, including increasing testing and vaccination, providing financial assistance to individuals and businesses, and working to reopen schools and businesses safely.

Withdrawal from Afghanistan

In August 2021, the Biden administration withdrew US troops from Afghanistan. The withdrawal was chaotic and resulted in the deaths of 13 American service members. The withdrawal has been widely criticized, and it has raised questions about the future of US foreign policy.

American Rescue Plan Act

The American Rescue Plan Act was a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus package that was passed by Congress in March 2021. The act provided direct payments to individuals, extended unemployment benefits, and provided funding for state and local governments. The act is credited with helping to boost the economy and reduce poverty.

FAQ Section

What is the significance of the Progressive Era in American history?

The Progressive Era was a period of widespread social, economic, and political reform in the United States from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. It was marked by a surge in activism and a belief in the power of government to address social problems.

What were the major causes of World War I?

The major causes of World War I include the rise of nationalism and imperialism, the formation of alliances between European powers, and the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria.

What was the impact of the Great Depression on the United States?

The Great Depression was the worst economic downturn in American history, leading to widespread unemployment, poverty, and social unrest. It had a profound impact on the nation’s economy, politics, and society.