Period 6

Definition

Period 6 refers to the historical era in United States history from 1865 to 1898, characterized by significant transformations in society, economy, and politics. This period witnessed the aftermath of the Civil War, rapid industrialization, urbanization, and the rise of new social movements that shaped American identity and governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Period 6 marks the end of Reconstruction and the beginning of significant economic change with the rise of big business and monopolies.
2. This era saw massive immigration waves that contributed to urbanization and transformed the cultural landscape of American cities.
3. The completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in 1869 was pivotal in connecting the nation economically and facilitating westward expansion.
4. Labor movements gained momentum during this period, with strikes like the Haymarket Riot of 1886 highlighting tensions between workers and industrialists.
5. The United States began to assert its influence globally during this time, culminating in events like the Spanish-American War in 1898.

Review Questions

• How did industrialization during Period 6 affect American society and the economy?
  • Industrialization brought profound changes to American society and the economy during Period 6. It led to a shift from agrarian lifestyles to urban living as people moved to cities for jobs in factories. This transformation created new social classes, particularly a wealthy industrial elite and a large working class facing harsh conditions. Additionally, it fostered technological innovations that enhanced productivity but also raised concerns about labor rights and working conditions.
• Evaluate the impact of immigration on urban development during Period 6.
  • Immigration significantly impacted urban development during Period 6 as millions of people arrived seeking better opportunities. Cities expanded rapidly to accommodate this influx, resulting in diverse cultural communities. However, this also led to overcrowded living conditions and strained public services. The challenges faced by immigrants helped fuel the rise of social reform movements aimed at addressing issues like housing, labor rights, and access to education.
• Assess how the events of Period 6 set the stage for future reforms in the early 20th century.
  • The events of Period 6 laid crucial groundwork for future reforms in the early 20th century by highlighting systemic issues within society, politics, and economics. The rise of big business and the Gilded Age's inequalities prompted a response from various reform movements such as Progressivism. These movements aimed to address labor rights, women's suffrage, and government corruption. The tensions and changes of this era ultimately influenced legislative actions in the Progressive Era, shaping modern American governance.

Related terms

Industrialization:

The transition from an agrarian economy to one dominated by industry and manufacturing, leading to urban growth and changes in labor dynamics.

Progressivism: A social and political movement aimed at addressing issues caused by industrialization and urbanization, advocating for reforms in government, labor rights, and social justice.

Gilded Age:

A term used to describe the late 19th century characterized by economic growth, a rise in wealth inequality, and political corruption, often masking underlying social issues.