Apush Unit 8 Review Guide

As the Advanced Placement United States History (APUSH) exam approaches, it's essential to review and reinforce your understanding of the material. Unit 8, which covers the period from 1945 to 1980, is a critical component of the APUSH curriculum. In this review guide, we'll delve into the key events, themes, and concepts that shaped America during this time.

Post-War America (1945-1960)

The post-war period was marked by unprecedented economic growth, suburbanization, and the rise of consumer culture. The GI Bill, which provided education and housing benefits to veterans, contributed to the growth of the middle class. The Federal Highway Act of 1956 and the interstate highway system transformed the nation's infrastructure. However, this period also saw the rise of McCarthyism, the Red Scare, and the Civil Rights Movement.

Cold War and Foreign Policy

The Cold War dominated American foreign policy during this period. The Truman Doctrine, the Marshall Plan, and the formation of NATO were key components of the United States' efforts to contain communism. The Korean War (1950-1953) and the Vietnam War (1955-1975) were two major conflicts that tested America's military strength and diplomatic resolve.

Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement gained momentum in the 1950s and 1960s, with landmark events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955-1956), the March on Washington (1963), and the Selma to Montgomery Marches (1965). Key figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X played important roles in the fight for racial equality.

The 1960s: Social and Cultural Change

The 1960s were a transformative decade, marked by significant social and cultural changes. The feminist movement, led by figures like Betty Friedan and Gloria Steinem, sought to address issues like reproductive rights and equal pay. The counterculture movement, characterized by the hippie subculture and the anti-war movement, challenged traditional values and institutions.

The Great Society and the War on Poverty

President Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society programs aimed to address issues like poverty, education, and healthcare. The War on Poverty, launched in 1964, included initiatives like the Economic Opportunity Act and the creation of the Job Corps.

The 1970s: Watergate and the Rise of Conservatism

The 1970s were marked by the Watergate scandal, which led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon in 1974. This period also saw the rise of conservatism, with figures like Ronald Reagan and Phyllis Schlafly gaining prominence.

The Iranian Hostage Crisis and the Energy Crisis

The Iranian Hostage Crisis (1979-1981) and the Energy Crisis (1973-1974) were two significant events that tested America's foreign policy and economic resilience.

Review Tips and Strategies

To prepare for the APUSH exam, focus on the following review tips and strategies:

• Review the key events, themes, and concepts outlined in this guide.
• Practice analyzing primary sources, such as speeches, letters, and images.
• Develop a timeline of major events and identify patterns and connections.
• Focus on the historical thinking skills, such as contextualization, comparison, and causation.
• Use flashcards to reinforce key terms and concepts.

By following this review guide and practicing effective review strategies, you'll be well-prepared for the APUSH exam and confident in your ability to tackle the challenges of Unit 8.

We encourage you to share your thoughts and feedback on this review guide in the comments below. What topics do you think are most important to focus on? What review strategies have worked best for you? Let's discuss!