History 202 Exam #2 Essay's

Discuss America's turn toward nativism in the early 1920s. What motivated this ideology, and what groups supported it? Discuss examples of increasing nativism and isolationism expressed in federal law, the courts, and social movements.

After WWI, there was a strong hatred for German Americans, and even a fear of Immigrants in general. This could be seen through things such as the Red Scare, and the National Origins Act, which limited the amount of immigrants that could enter the country per year. White Americans were scared that Immigrants would bring these new ideologies, such as communism or socialism, and take their jobs. Nativism increased with the Sacco and Vanzetti trial, which was a major catalyst in the Red Scare and nativism in general. The US went into an isolationism state in the 1920, and opted to not join the League of Nations, even though they were the first to propose it.

What were the reasons for American imperialism at the turn of the 20th century? What justifications did Americans offer for expansionism? What were the arguments made by the opponents of imperialism?

The main causes for American Imperialism were Economic Competition, Political and Military Competition, and Nationalism. Americans defended their actions by saying it was their duty as the "superior race" to expand their influence and "civilize" other people. Oher arguments for imperialism came from militarism, by expanding our territories, we could grow our military and power abroad. Anti-Imperialists argued that it was against the republic, saying it violated the principle that states a republic must derive from "consent of the governed". Other arguments against imperialism were that we would become too involved in foreign affairs, and not be able to manage our own problems.

Describe the origin of the progressive movement. What were the motives of the progressives? What changes did progressivism bring to America? How was America different in 1920 from what it had been in 1900 because of progressivism?

The progressive movement started because of Muckrakers. The muckrakers would take on corporate monopolies and political machines. The progressives had four main goals. These were to protect social welfare, promote moral improvement, create economic reform, and foster efficiency. Progressivism brought Women's suffrage, and the Pure Food and Drug act, both of which benefited the US tremendously.

How did an expanding mass culture change the shape of everyday American life in the years following World War I? What roles did consumer culture and new technologies of mass communication (radio, movies) play in shaping these changes? Explain.

With culture changes like the Harlem Renaissance, and consumerism as its highest, the 20s were set up to be a time of massive change. Everyday Americans were not as against integration as they were before, as many black performers and stars started to rise. Things such as Radios allowed for news broadcasts and helped to get rid of that divide that spanned from coast to coast. Movies were like an escape from reality, where someone could immerse themselves in a new universe. People attended movies far more frequently back then than they do now.

How did participation in World War I change the position of African Americans, women, and immigrants in American society? Include specific examples.

World War I changed how many oppressed groups in America lived. This was the first time African Americans were allowed to join the military and fight for our country. When they returned home however, they were not welcomed with open arms, Instead they were met with riots of white supremacy known as the Red Summer. WWI Planted the seed for the Civil Rights Movement. Women had more job opportunities beyond traditional female jobs. They were now able to work in factories, and were able to vote when the war was over due to progressivism. WWI finally gave Immigrants a true chance to prove their loyalty to the US by joining the military and fighting overseas. After WWI, Immigrants were not seen in a positive light because of fear around communism and new ideas, such as the Red Scare.