6 Key Concepts For Apush Period 6 Review

The Advanced Placement United States History (APUSH) exam is a comprehensive assessment that tests students' knowledge of American history from the pre-Columbian era to the present day. Period 6, which spans from 1865 to 1898, is a critical component of the exam, covering the Reconstruction era, the Gilded Age, and the rise of the United States as a global power. In this article, we will review six key concepts that are essential for success in APUSH Period 6.

1. Reconstruction and the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments

The Reconstruction era, which lasted from 1865 to 1877, was a pivotal period in American history. Following the Civil War, the nation faced the daunting task of rebuilding and redefining itself. The 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the Constitution were ratified during this period, abolishing slavery, granting citizenship to former slaves, and protecting their right to vote. Understanding the significance of these amendments and the Reconstruction era's impact on American society is crucial for APUSH Period 6.

Key points to remember:

• The 13th Amendment (1865) abolished slavery throughout the United States.
• The 14th Amendment (1868) granted citizenship to former slaves and defined citizenship as "all persons born or naturalized in the United States."
• The 15th Amendment (1870) protected the right to vote for African American men.

2. The Gilded Age and the Rise of Industrialization

The Gilded Age, which spanned from the late 1860s to the late 1890s, was marked by rapid industrialization, technological innovation, and significant economic growth. This period saw the rise of captains of industry, such as Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller, who accumulated vast fortunes and transformed the American economy. Understanding the characteristics of the Gilded Age, including the impact of industrialization and the growth of cities, is essential for APUSH Period 6.

Key points to remember:

• The Gilded Age was characterized by rapid industrialization, technological innovation, and significant economic growth.
• Captains of industry, such as Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller, accumulated vast fortunes and transformed the American economy.
• The growth of cities during this period led to the development of new social systems and the rise of urban problems.

3. Westward Expansion and the Impact on Native Americans

Westward expansion, which began in the early 19th century, continued unabated during APUSH Period 6. The construction of the transcontinental railroad, the discovery of gold and silver, and the expansion of the cattle industry all contributed to the growth of the American West. However, this expansion came at a significant cost to Native Americans, who were forcibly removed from their lands and subjected to violence and exploitation. Understanding the impact of westward expansion on Native Americans is critical for APUSH Period 6.

Key points to remember:

• Westward expansion led to the growth of the American West and the displacement of Native Americans from their lands.
• The construction of the transcontinental railroad, the discovery of gold and silver, and the expansion of the cattle industry all contributed to the growth of the West.
• Native Americans were subjected to violence, exploitation, and forced relocation during this period.

4. The Rise of Labor Unions and the Labor Movement

The late 19th century saw the rise of labor unions and the labor movement in the United States. Workers, who were often subjected to poor working conditions, long hours, and low wages, began to organize and demand better treatment. The formation of labor unions, such as the Knights of Labor and the American Federation of Labor, marked a significant turning point in the labor movement. Understanding the key events and figures of the labor movement is essential for APUSH Period 6.

Key points to remember:

• The labor movement emerged in response to poor working conditions, long hours, and low wages.
• Labor unions, such as the Knights of Labor and the American Federation of Labor, were formed to promote workers' rights.
• Key figures, such as Samuel Gompers and Mary Harris Jones, played important roles in the labor movement.

5. Immigration and the Rise of Nativism

The late 19th century saw a significant influx of immigrants to the United States, primarily from Europe. However, this wave of immigration also led to the rise of nativism, a movement that sought to restrict immigration and promote American culture. Understanding the impact of immigration on American society and the rise of nativism is critical for APUSH Period 6.

Key points to remember:

• The late 19th century saw a significant influx of immigrants to the United States, primarily from Europe.
• Nativism emerged as a response to immigration, seeking to restrict immigration and promote American culture.
• Key events, such as the Chinese Exclusion Act, marked a turning point in the rise of nativism.

6. The United States as a Global Power

By the late 19th century, the United States had emerged as a global power, with significant economic, military, and cultural influence. The country's expansion into the Pacific, the construction of the Panama Canal, and the Spanish-American War all marked significant milestones in the rise of the United States as a global power. Understanding the key events and themes of this period is essential for APUSH Period 6.

Key points to remember:

• The United States emerged as a global power by the late 19th century, with significant economic, military, and cultural influence.
• The country's expansion into the Pacific, the construction of the Panama Canal, and the Spanish-American War all marked significant milestones in the rise of the United States as a global power.
• Key figures, such as Alfred Thayer Mahan and Theodore Roosevelt, played important roles in promoting American expansionism.

In conclusion, APUSH Period 6 is a complex and multifaceted period in American history, marked by significant events and themes that continue to shape our understanding of the country today. By reviewing these six key concepts, students can gain a deeper understanding of the period and prepare themselves for success on the APUSH exam. We invite you to share your thoughts and insights on APUSH Period 6 in the comments below.