Growth of America
"Standard" Working Conditions
"Standard" working conditions back in the day were pretty rough. We're talking about long hours, like 12-16 hour days, minimal breaks, and often unsafe environments. It led to the push for labor laws and better standards over time.
def industrialisation
the process of transforming the economy of a nation or region from a focus on agriculture to a reliance on manufacturing
Four Waves of Immigration
1: the original immigrants (english/mixed european setters) 2: the old immigrants (german/irish/scandinavian/asian 3: the new immigrants (eastern europeans, polish/italian/slavic) 4: the modern immigrants (asian/latin american/middle eastern)
The American Businessman: Andrew Carnegie/Business Model
1st industrial giant carnegie steel company rags to riches charitable leader model for the american dream
Melting Pot vs. Salad Bowl Theories
The "melting pot" theory is about different cultures blending into one American identity, while the "salad bowl" theory celebrates cultural diversity, with each culture retaining its unique flavor within the whole mix.
Capitalism vs. Socialism
Cap: free market system where private businesses are in control Soc: government controlled system where the community or state shares the wealth
Government Response to Unions
During the late 19th to early 20th century, the general public was against the labor movement and favored the government's reaction toward it. The labor movement usually brought violence and anger, which led the government to use force against the Unions which often instigated the violence.
Reasons for Housing Problems and Conditions
Cities couldn't keep up with the influx of workers, leading to overcrowded and substandard living spaces. The high demand for housing meant that many people were forced to live in cramped, unsanitary conditions, often in tenements. These issues were exacerbated by a lack of building regulations and the high cost of decent housing, which was unaffordable for many low-income workers. Solutions included housing reforms, the development of public housing, and zoning laws to improve living conditions.
Collective Bargaining Process
During collective bargaining, representatives from the labor union and the employer negotiate to reach agreements on various aspects, such as wages, working conditions, and benefits. The goal is to find a mutually beneficial solution that satisfies both parties.
Migration: Former Farmers, African-Americans
During industrialization, many former farmers and African Americans moved to urban areas seeking better economic opportunities. The mechanization of agriculture reduced the need for labor on farms, prompting many to migrate to cities where industrial jobs were plentiful. Additionally, African Americans, especially from the Southern states, moved north in what's known as the Great Migration, to escape Jim Crow laws and find work in growing industries.
Ellis Island vs. Angel Island
Ellis feels like a palace/east coast Angel feels like a prison/west coast
Jacob Riis and the Reform Movement
He was a photojournalist and social reformer who documented the living conditions of the poor in New York City. His photographs and writings shed light on the overcrowded, unsanitary, and often dangerous conditions that many immigrants and low-income workers faced. Riis's work played a significant role in advocating for improved housing, sanitation, and social welfare policies.
Challenges for Immigrants: Journey and Reception
Immigrants faced tough challenges. The journey was often long and treacherous, with poor conditions on ships. Once they arrived, reception could be hostile, and they had to deal with language barriers, finding work, and adapting to new cultures.
Immigrant Survival: Ethnic Communities and Opportunities
Immigrants often formed ethnic communities, which provided a sense of belonging and mutual support. These communities helped newcomers navigate their new life, find jobs, and preserve cultural traditions. They also created opportunities by starting businesses and services catering to their own communities.
Symbolism/Inscription Meaning of the Statue of Liberty
It symbolizes America's welcoming of immigrants and the ideals of liberty and opportunity.
Economic Terms: Laissez-Faire and Social Darwinism
Laissez- gov. keeps hands off economy Social- economy based on the idea survival of the fittest
Life of Women/Children in the Workplace
Life for women and children in the workplace during industrialization was tough. They often faced long hours, low pay, and unsafe conditions.
Monopoly: Horizontal vs. Vertical Integration
Monopoly- complete control over industrys production Vertical- control all stages of production Horizontal- Buy out competition
Rise of Nativism: "Good" vs. "Bad" Immigrants
Nativists often distinguished between "good" and "bad" immigrants, categorizing them based on their country of origin, religion, or perceived ability to assimilate. They favored immigrants who came from similar backgrounds as the established American population and were wary of those who seemed different. This sentiment led to tension and discriminatory policies, as nativists believed that the new immigrants could not adapt to the American way of life or were taking jobs away from native-born citizens. It was a challenging time for many who came looking for new opportunities.
pros/cons of industrilization
On the positive side, industrialization brought about technological advancements, increased production, and improved living standards for many people. It also created job opportunities and stimulated economic growth. However, there were also negative impacts such as environmental pollution, unsafe working conditions, and income inequality.
Problems and Solutions of Urbanization
One of the problems was overcrowding, with cities becoming densely populated. This led to challenges like inadequate housing, poor sanitation, and increased pollution. solutions It led to the development of better infrastructure, such as transportation systems and utilities, which improved the quality of life for many. Efforts were made to address the negative impacts through urban planning, public health initiatives, and social reforms.
Robber Barons and Formula for Success
Robber barons were industrialists and financiers who amassed huge wealth and power during the 19th century. Their formula for success often included monopolies, political influence, and sometimes ruthless business practices.
Immigration Act of 1924, National Origins Act of 1929, Immigration Act of 1965
The Immigration Act of 1924, also known as the Johnson-Reed Act, established strict quotas based on national origins, favoring immigrants from Western and Northern European countries while severely limiting immigration from other regions. The National Origins Act of 1929 further reinforced these restrictions. Immigration Act of 1965, also known as the Hart-Celler Act, marked a significant shift in policy. It abolished the national origins quota system and introduced a new preference system based on family reunification and employment skills. This act aimed to promote diversity and equal opportunity in immigration.
Four Key Labor Strikes
The great strike of 1877-workers for Baltimore/Ohio railroad went on strike to protest their second wage cut haymarket affair-began as a peaceful protest by workers demanding an eight-hour workday. turned violent when a bomb exploded during the protest, leading to chaos and casualties. the homestead strike- steel workers called a strike after President Clay announced cut wages the pullman strike-during the panic of 1893 economic depression, cut wages, 25 to 40%
Cause of the Rise of Labor Unions
The rise of labor unions was mainly caused by poor working conditions, low wages, and long hours during the Industrial Revolution. Workers realized they needed to come together to fight for better rights and fair treatment.
Cultural Opportunities in the "City"
There are museums, art galleries, theaters, music venues, and so much more. You can explore different art styles, attend live performances, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene. Plus, cities often have diverse communities, which means you can experience a wide range of cuisines, traditions, and celebrations. It's an exciting place to be if you're looking for cultural experiences and opportunities to broaden your horizons.
Political Cartoons: Robber Barons
They often depicted the industrialists as greedy and corrupt, showing them as giant figures with bags of money, exploiting the working class. These cartoons were a way for artists to criticize the power and influence of the robber barons in a satirical and humorous way. They played a role in raising awareness about the negative aspects of industrialization.
impact of industrialization on transportation
Think about how trains and steamships shrunk the world, making travel and trade way faster and more efficient
Causes of Urbanization
Urbanization is the process of people moving from rural areas to cities in search of better opportunities. It's caused by factors like industrialization, job availability, improved transportation, and the desire for a more convenient and modern lifestyle.
Key Figures: Carnegie, Morgan, Vanderbilt, Rockefeller
carnegie-He built a vast steel empire and became one of the richest men in history. morgan-He was a powerful financier and banker during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. he was involved in the creation of U.S. Steel and General Electric. vanderbilt-one of the richest individuals in American history. played a crucial role in expanding and consolidating the railroad industry, which had a significant impact on transportation during industrialization. rockefeller-made his fortune in the oil industry. Rockefeller's company, Standard Oil, became the largest oil refiner and distributor in the world. His success and control over the industry led to the rise of labor unions as workers sought better working conditions and fair treatment.
Social Gospel Reform Movement
emphasized the importance of applying Christian principles to address societal problems, such as poverty, inequality, and labor exploitation. Advocates of the Social Gospel believed that it was the responsibility of Christians to actively work towards social justice and improve the lives of the less fortunate.
Reasons for Immigrants Moving to Cities
for jobs in factories and industries that were booming due to the growth of America, seeking a community and a chance at a better life
Sherman Antitrust Act
made it illegal to form a trust or a collective agreement between business owners
Types of Economies: Market, Mixed, Command
market economy, businesses and individuals make most economic decisions. mixed economy, both the government and private sector play a role in the economy. command economy, the government controls most aspects of economic activity. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
explosion of new inventions and new urban markets
new inventions: railroads, telegraphs, etc changed economy new urban markets:
key natural resources
oil, coal, iron
Push/Pull Factors
push: disease, religious, poverty and land shortage, war and conflict pull: jobs, the american dream, individual freedom, streets paved with gold
Jane Addams and the Settlement House Movement
settlement house was a temporary home/shelter that provided assistance for the downtrodden, the down in out, and the poor Addams was the first woman to win the noble peace prize for her work to promote international brotherhood and peace
Definition of a "Scab"
strikebreakers- works despite the strike
Four Major Unions
the American Federation of Labor (AFL), the Knights of Labor, the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), and the United Mine Workers (UMW). These unions fought for better working conditions, higher wages, and improved rights for workers.
Immigration Restrictions: Chinese Exclusion Act, Gentlemen's Agreement, Quotas
the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was one of the first significant laws restricting immigration, and it outright banned Chinese laborers from entering the US for 10 years. The Gentlemen's Agreement with Japan in 1907 was another example; it wasn't a formal law but an understanding that Japan would limit emigration to the US, in return for better treatment of Japanese already in the States.
