Turn of the century

Definition

The term 'Turn of the century' refers to the period around the transition from the 19th to the 20th century, specifically the late 1890s to the early 1900s. This era is marked by significant social, economic, and political changes, influenced heavily by immigration patterns and responses to newcomers, as well as a surge in imperialist ambitions among major world powers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Turn of the century saw a massive wave of immigrants arriving in the United States, primarily from Southern and Eastern Europe, leading to diverse cultural influences.
2. This period also coincided with significant urban growth as cities expanded rapidly to accommodate the increasing population brought by both migration and industrialization.
3. Responses to immigration during this time included both welcoming attitudes and significant nativist backlash, leading to legislation aimed at restricting certain immigrant groups.
4. Imperialism was on the rise at the Turn of the century, with countries seeking new territories for resources and markets, exemplified by events like the Spanish-American War in 1898.
5. This era was characterized by a transformation in American identity, as traditional values were challenged by new social dynamics emerging from immigration and industrial changes.

Review Questions

• How did immigration patterns during the Turn of the century shape American society?
  • Immigration patterns during the Turn of the century significantly shaped American society by introducing a variety of cultures and languages. This influx brought both challenges and opportunities, as cities became melting pots of different ethnicities. The diverse backgrounds of immigrants contributed to cultural innovations but also led to tensions between established citizens and newcomers, fueling movements that would shape future policies.
• In what ways did nativist sentiments manifest during the Turn of the century in response to immigration?
  • Nativist sentiments during the Turn of the century manifested through legislation aimed at restricting immigration, such as the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 and later acts that targeted Southern and Eastern Europeans. These sentiments also led to social movements that promoted 'American' values while denigrating immigrant contributions. The growing fear of losing cultural identity among native-born Americans prompted increased calls for assimilation policies and restrictive immigration laws.
• Evaluate how imperialistic ambitions influenced U.S. foreign policy at the Turn of the century and its relationship with immigrant populations.
  • Imperialistic ambitions profoundly influenced U.S. foreign policy at the Turn of the century, as America sought to expand its influence abroad while managing an increasingly diverse population at home. The Spanish-American War marked a significant shift toward global engagement, reflecting a belief in Manifest Destiny beyond continental borders. This expansionism often intersected with immigrant populations, as many sought new opportunities within these territories while facing discrimination and skepticism from nativist groups who viewed them as potential threats to national integrity.

Related terms

Nativism:

A political policy that favors the interests of established inhabitants over those of immigrants, often leading to hostility towards newcomers.

Urbanization:

The process by which an increasing percentage of a population comes to live in urban areas, significantly influenced by immigration during this period.

Manifest Destiny:

A belief that American expansion across the continent was justified and inevitable, influencing both domestic and foreign policies during the turn of the century.