Early-20th Centuries

Definition

The Early-20th Centuries refer to the period from approximately 1900 to the onset of World War II in the late 1930s, characterized by significant social, political, and economic changes. This era saw the expansion of industrialization, urbanization, and the growth of new social classes, particularly the middle class, which reshaped American society and culture while also influencing national policies and attitudes toward expansion and governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The early 20th century was marked by a shift from agrarian economies to industrial economies, leading to rapid urbanization and changes in labor practices.
2. During this time, the middle class expanded significantly, driven by increased access to education and job opportunities in various sectors like manufacturing and services.
3. Technological advancements such as automobiles and electricity transformed daily life and created new industries, further fueling economic growth.
4. The era was characterized by growing movements advocating for social reforms, including women's suffrage and labor rights, culminating in significant legislative changes.
5. Internationally, this period saw the United States increasingly engage in foreign affairs, reflecting a belief in Manifest Destiny as it extended beyond its continental borders.

Review Questions

• How did industrialization during the Early-20th Centuries contribute to the development of the middle class?
  • Industrialization created numerous job opportunities in factories and urban areas, allowing individuals from various backgrounds to secure stable employment. With steady wages, many people were able to improve their living conditions and pursue education, which further enabled them to climb the socioeconomic ladder. This contributed to a growing middle class that valued education, home ownership, and consumer goods, fundamentally altering American society.
• In what ways did the concept of Manifest Destiny influence U.S. foreign policy during the Early-20th Centuries?
  • Manifest Destiny continued to shape American ideology as it expanded beyond its continental borders into territories like Puerto Rico and the Philippines. This belief in a mission to spread democracy and capitalism justified interventionist policies, such as the Spanish-American War. As a result, U.S. foreign policy shifted towards imperialism, with an increased emphasis on military presence and influence in global affairs.
• Evaluate the impact of social movements on shaping American society during the Early-20th Centuries, especially regarding women's rights and labor reforms.
  • Social movements had a profound impact during this era as they brought attention to issues such as women's suffrage and labor rights. Activists fought for legal rights for women, leading to milestones like the 19th Amendment granting women the right to vote in 1920. Labor movements sought better working conditions and fair wages, resulting in significant legislation such as the Fair Labor Standards Act. These movements not only changed laws but also shifted public attitudes towards gender roles and workers' rights, laying foundations for future social change.

Related terms

Progressive Era:

A period in the early 20th century marked by social activism and political reform aimed at addressing issues caused by industrialization and urbanization.

Urbanization:

The process by which cities grow as more people move from rural areas to urban centers, often resulting in significant social and economic changes.

New Deal:

A series of programs and reforms implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression, aimed at economic recovery and social welfare.