Shaping America: 1877-1920s Script

Slide 1: Welcome to Shaping America!

"Good morning, everyone! Today, we're going to take a journey back in time to review some of the most pivotal periods in American history as we prepare for our semester exam. Our goal is to make sure you feel confident and prepared."

"On this first slide, you can see our objective for today: to review key historical principles, major eras from 1877 to the 1920s, the emergence of the U.S. as a world power, and significant social and economic changes. Why does this all matter? Because understanding our past helps us make sense of our present and shapes our future as citizens. Let's get started!"

Slide 2: Founding Principles: Declaration & Constitution

"Let's begin with the bedrock of our nation: the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, including the Bill of Rights. Can anyone remind us, in your own words, what was the primary purpose of the Declaration of Independence?"

"Excellent! It was to declare our separation from Great Britain and articulate the colonists' grievances. It established timeless ideals of liberty, equality, and self-governance that still resonate today."

"Now, how about the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights? What was their main role?"

"That's right! The Constitution set up the framework for our federal government, while the Bill of Rights was added to guarantee individual liberties and limit government power. We'll also briefly touch on how these founding principles have been applied, and sometimes challenged, throughout our history."

"Finally, let's consider our national mottos: 'E Pluribus Unum,' meaning 'Out of Many, One,' which speaks to our unity from diverse backgrounds, and 'In God We Trust,' which became our national motto in 1956 and carries significant historical meaning. Think about how these mottos reflect American identity."

Slide 3: Major Eras & Turning Points (1877-1920s)

"Our exam covers a fascinating period from 1877 to the 1920s, a time of immense transformation. This slide outlines the major eras we've studied: the Gilded Age, the Progressive Era, the WWI Era, and the Roaring Twenties. Each era has its own defining characteristics."

"We also identified some critical turning points. Can someone tell us why the year 1898 is considered a significant turning point in U.S. history?"

"Exactly! It was the year of the Spanish-American War, which marked the beginning of significant U.S. global expansion. And what about 1914-1918?"

"Right again! That's the period of World War I, a global conflict that profoundly impacted U.S. foreign and domestic policy. Keep these turning points in mind as we review."

Slide 4: U.S. Transformations: 1877-1898

"Let's zoom in on the Gilded Age, from 1877 to 1898. This era saw incredible growth but also significant challenges. On the political front, we discussed Indian policies, the rise of political machines like Tammany Hall, and efforts towards civil service reform."

"Economically, it was a time of rapid industrialization, the expansion of railroads, the growth of labor unions fighting for workers' rights, and issues facing farmers. We also saw the cattle industry boom, the rise of entrepreneurship, and debates about the pros and cons of big business."

"Socially, this period brought changes for women, minorities, and children, often marked by struggles against discrimination and child labor. Immigration increased dramatically, leading to urbanization and the challenges of city life, alongside a rise in nativism. Can anyone recall one major social issue from this time?"

"Great examples! These changes really set the stage for the next period."

Slide 5: Emergence as a World Power (1898-1920)

"Following the Gilded Age, the U.S. began to shed its isolationist tendencies and emerge as a world power between 1898 and 1920. The Spanish-American War was a key event, leading to the acquisition of new territories like Guam, Hawaii, the Philippines, and Puerto Rico."

"Key individuals like Alfred Thayer Mahan, with his theories on sea power, and Theodore Roosevelt, with his 'Big Stick' diplomacy and the Panama Canal project, were instrumental in this shift. We also remember Sanford B. Dole's role in Hawaii's annexation."

"Then came World War I. Can you name one of the main causes of WWI, or a reason why the U.S. eventually entered the conflict?"

"Excellent! Imperialism, militarism, alliances, nationalism, and the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand were all causes. And the U.S. entered due to factors like unrestricted submarine warfare and the Zimmermann Telegram. General John J. Pershing led the American Expeditionary Forces, notably at the Battle of Argonne Forest. We also saw the devastating impact of new technologies like machine guns, airplanes, tanks, poison gas, and trench warfare."

"Finally, remember the major issues raised by U.S. involvement: debates about isolationism and neutrality, Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points peace plan, and the eventual Treaty of Versailles."

Slide 6: Reform & Third Parties (Early 20th Century)

"Moving into the early 20th century, we explored the Progressive Era, a period focused on reform. Politically, reforms like initiative, referendum, and recall gave citizens more direct power. We also saw significant constitutional amendments: the 16th (income tax), 17th (direct election of senators), 18th (Prohibition), and 19th (women's suffrage). Can you tell me what impact the 19th Amendment had?"

"Precisely! It granted women the right to vote, a huge step forward for democracy."

"Muckrakers like Upton Sinclair, who exposed the horrors of the meatpacking industry in The Jungle, and reform leaders such as Susan B. Anthony, Jane Addams, Ida B. Wells, and W. E. B. DuBois, championed various social and civil rights causes. Their work was vital in bringing about change."

"Third parties also played a role, with the Populist Party advocating for farmers' interests and the Progressive 'Bull Moose' Party pushing for social reforms under Theodore Roosevelt."

Slide 7: The Roaring Twenties (1920s)

"Finally, let's review the 'Roaring Twenties,' a decade of immense change and contradictions. We discussed social issues like immigration quotas and rising nativism, the Scopes Trial debating science and religion, and the controversial ideas of Social Darwinism and eugenics."

"Race relations continued to be a critical issue, even amidst the cultural flourishing of the Harlem Renaissance and the Great Migration. The Red Scare fueled fears of communism, and Prohibition led to new social dynamics and organized crime. However, the role of women dramatically changed, with the rise of the 'flapper' and new freedoms. How did the changing role of women manifest in the 1920s?"

"Excellent observations! From fashion to careers, women were breaking new ground."

"We also looked at influential individuals like Henry Ford, who revolutionized industry with the assembly line; Marcus Garvey, a leader in Black nationalism; and Charles A. Lindbergh, who captivated the nation with his transatlantic flight."

Slide 8: Time for the Exam!

"Alright, that concludes our review! Remember to read each question carefully on your exam, manage your time wisely, and do your best. You've worked hard this semester, and I'm confident you'll do great. Good luck!"

Shaping America: 1877-1920s Semester Exam Answer Key

Section 1: Founding Principles & Historical Context (TEKS 1, 2)

1. READ THE QUOTE:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - The Declaration of Independence

Which of the following principles from the Declaration of Independence is most directly reflected in the passage above?

Correct Answer: C) Individual Rights

Thought Process: The quote explicitly mentions "unalienable Rights," including "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness," which are fundamental individual rights that the Declaration asserts are inherent to all people.

2. The U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights were created to primarily address which concern of the founding fathers?

Correct Answer: C) The fear of an overly powerful central government.

Thought Process: Following the experience with British monarchy and the weak Articles of Confederation, the framers aimed to create a stronger federal government but included the Bill of Rights to explicitly limit its power and prevent tyranny, a primary concern.

3. Explain the meaning and historical significance of the motto "E Pluribus Unum" and how it reflects the early challenges and aspirations of the United States. Provide at least two pieces of historical context.

Expected Answer: "E Pluribus Unum" translates to "Out of Many, One." Its historical significance lies in representing the idea that the United States was formed from a union of many separate states and diverse peoples into a single, unified nation. This motto was particularly relevant during the early challenges of the U.S. when the newly independent states, despite their individual identities and varied interests, needed to come together to form a cohesive federal republic. It also reflected the aspiration to forge a national identity from a population comprised of different European immigrant groups and distinct regional cultures. The adoption of this motto on the Great Seal of the United States in 1782 underscored this foundational desire for unity and collective strength from diverse origins, crucial for the survival and growth of the fledgling nation.

Thought Process: Students should explain the translation and connect it to the challenges of forming a unified nation from diverse states/peoples post-Revolution, demonstrating knowledge of the motto’s historical context and purpose.

4. The Spanish-American War in 1898 is considered a major turning point because it marked:

Correct Answer: C) The emergence of the United States as a global power.

Thought Process: The U.S. victory in the Spanish-American War resulted in the acquisition of overseas territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, signaling a definitive shift from isolationism to an active role on the world stage.

5. Which of the following best describes a defining characteristic of the Gilded Age (1877-1898)?

Correct Answer: C) Significant technological innovation alongside social inequality.

Thought Process: The Gilded Age was characterized by rapid industrial growth and new technologies (e.g., railroads, steel, oil) but also by immense wealth disparity, poor working conditions, and significant social problems hidden beneath a glittering surface.

6. Analyze the impact of political machines on urban areas during the late 19th century. Discuss both the benefits (if any) and drawbacks of their influence on city governance and immigrant communities.

Expected Answer: Political machines, such as Tammany Hall in New York, had both benefits and drawbacks in late 19th-century urban areas. Benefits often included providing essential services to urban residents, especially immigrant communities, who were frequently overlooked by official city governments. Machines offered jobs, housing, food, and assistance with naturalization, helping immigrants adapt to American life. In return, they expected loyalty and votes. Drawbacks were extensive corruption, including graft, bribery, and voter fraud. Machine bosses often enriched themselves at public expense, mismanaged city funds, and undermined democratic processes. While they helped some individuals, they often did so by exploiting public resources and consolidating power unethically.

Thought Process: Students should explain the functions of political machines, identifying both the practical support they offered (benefits) and the systemic corruption and undemocratic practices they fostered (drawbacks).

7. READ THE QUOTE:

"The great corporations are not content with high profits, but by every means in their power seek to prevent the workers from enjoying their full share of the prosperity they create." - Samuel Gompers, founder of the American Federation of Labor

Based on Gompers’ statement, what was a primary economic issue leading to the growth of labor unions in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) Unequal distribution of wealth and worker exploitation.

Thought Process: Gompers’ quote directly points to corporations hoarding profits and denying workers their fair share, which directly translates to issues of unequal wealth distribution and the exploitation of labor, leading workers to organize for better conditions and wages.

8. Alfred Thayer Mahan’s ideas about naval power most directly contributed to which U.S. foreign policy development?

Correct Answer: C) The acquisition of overseas territories for naval bases.

Thought Process: Mahan argued that a powerful navy was essential for national greatness and required coaling stations and naval bases worldwide. This directly influenced the U.S. decision to acquire strategic overseas territories to support its growing navy and global ambitions.

9. The annexation of Hawaii and the acquisition of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War exemplify what broader U.S. foreign policy trend?

Correct Answer: C) Expansionism

Thought Process: Both actions demonstrate the U.S. policy of extending its territory, economic influence, and political control over areas beyond its continental borders, which is the definition of expansionism or imperialism.

10. Examine the reasons for U.S. entry into World War I. Select two specific events or policies and explain how they led to America’s decision to abandon neutrality.

Expected Answer: Two key reasons for U.S. entry into World War I were:

1. Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: Germany resumed its policy of sinking merchant ships without warning in 1917, including American vessels and ships carrying American citizens (like the Lusitania in 1915). This direct threat to American lives and shipping interests, despite U.S. protests, made continued neutrality increasingly untenable and was seen as an act of aggression.
2. Zimmermann Telegram: In January 1917, a secret diplomatic communication from Germany to Mexico was intercepted and decoded by British intelligence. It proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico, promising German support for Mexico to reclaim lost territories in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona if the U.S. entered the war. The revelation of this plot intensified anti-German sentiment and convinced many Americans that Germany posed a direct threat to U.S. security and sovereignty.

Thought Process: Students should identify two distinct causes and explain how each specifically contributed to the U.S. abandonment of neutrality and eventual declaration of war.

11. READ THE DESCRIPTION:

"Soldiers dug elaborate networks of ditches protected by barbed wire, creating a static battleground where advances were measured in yards and casualties were immense."

This description primarily refers to the impact of which technological innovation and warfare strategy in World War I?

Correct Answer: C) Trench warfare and machine guns

Thought Process: The description of "networks of ditches," "barbed wire," "static battleground," and "immense casualties" directly points to the characteristics of trench warfare, which was made particularly deadly and static by the defensive power of machine guns.

Section 4: Progressive Era & The Roaring Twenties (TEKS 5, 6)

12. Which Progressive Era reform allowed citizens to remove an elected official from office before their term expired?

Correct Answer: C) Recall

Thought Process: The recall is a procedure by which voters can remove an elected official from office through a direct vote before their term has ended. This was a key Progressive reform aimed at increasing direct democracy and accountability.

13. Analyze the impact of the 19th Amendment on American society beyond just granting women the right to vote. How did this amendment contribute to broader social or political changes in the early 20th century?

Expected Answer: The 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote in 1920, had impacts far beyond simply expanding suffrage. Politically, it doubled the electorate, forcing politicians to consider women’s issues and constituencies, potentially influencing legislation on social welfare, education, and public health. Socially, it contributed to a broader movement for women’s equality and independence. While not immediately leading to radical changes, it empowered women to become more active in public life and civic organizations, challenging traditional gender roles and contributing to the cultural shifts seen in the "Roaring Twenties," where women increasingly sought economic independence and new social freedoms.

Thought Process: Students should explain not only that the 19th Amendment gave women the vote but also discuss its broader political influence (on elections, policy) and social implications (women’s roles, independence).

14. Upton Sinclair’s novel The Jungle is an example of muckraking primarily because it:

Correct Answer: B) Exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry.

Thought Process: Muckrakers were investigative journalists who aimed to expose corruption and social problems. Sinclair’s The Jungle vividly detailed the horrific and unsanitary conditions in Chicago’s meatpacking plants, directly leading to public outrage and the passage of food safety legislation.

15. The Populist Party, formed in the late 19th century, primarily sought to address the grievances of which group?

Correct Answer: C) Southern sharecroppers and Western farmers

Thought Process: The Populist Party arose from agrarian discontent in the late 19th century, representing the economic and political interests of farmers who felt exploited by banks, railroads, and industrial trusts.

16. The Red Scare following World War I was a period characterized by:

Correct Answer: B) Widespread fear of socialist and anarchist ideologies.

Thought Process: The Red Scare was a period of intense anti-radical and anti-immigrant hysteria, largely driven by fears of communist and anarchist infiltration in the wake of the Russian Revolution and a series of domestic bombings.

17. Describe how Henry Ford’s innovations in automobile manufacturing transformed American society beyond just transportation. Consider economic, social, or cultural impacts.

Expected Answer: Henry Ford’s innovations, particularly the assembly line and mass production of the Model T, transformed American society in numerous ways beyond simply providing transportation. Economically, it led to the growth of related industries like steel, rubber, glass, and oil, creating millions of new jobs and stimulating the economy. It also made cars affordable for the average American, contributing to a new consumer culture. Socially and culturally, the automobile fostered greater personal mobility and independence, changing dating patterns, encouraging suburbanization, and contributing to the decline of rural isolation. It also led to the development of new infrastructure like paved roads and gas stations, fundamentally reshaping American landscapes and lifestyles.

Thought Process: Students should go beyond just stating Ford made cars cheaper and discuss broader economic shifts (related industries, consumerism) and socio-cultural changes (mobility, suburbanization, new lifestyles).

18. The “Flapperâ€

of the 1920s best symbolizes:

Correct Answer: C) Women’s growing independence and changing social norms

Thought Process: The Flapper image, with her bobbed hair, shorter skirts, and more daring behavior, symbolized the new freedoms and challenges to traditional social conventions that many women embraced in the 1920s, representing a shift towards greater female independence.

19. Which amendment granted women the right to vote, significantly expanding democratic participation?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: This is a direct recall question about the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, which guaranteed women’s suffrage.

20. The “Return to Normalcyâ€

slogan after World War I represented a desire for:

Correct Answer: C) A return to pre-war conservative policies.

Thought Process: President Harding’s slogan appealed to Americans weary of progressive reforms and the sacrifices of war, promising a return to a simpler, more conservative time with less government intervention and international entanglement.

21. Which of the following was a major cause of the growth of urbanization in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: B) Increased agricultural output leading to fewer farm jobs.

Thought Process: Technological advancements in agriculture meant fewer laborers were needed on farms, pushing rural populations to seek opportunities in rapidly industrializing cities. This, combined with immigration, fueled urban growth.

22. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, New York, early 20th century."

Based on the image implied, what was a common social issue faced by immigrants arriving in the U.S. during this period?

Correct Answer: C) Nativist sentiment and discrimination.

Thought Process: Ellis Island was the gateway for millions of immigrants, who often faced significant nativist backlash, prejudice, and discrimination from established Americans who viewed them as threats to jobs or American culture.

23. The Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) Supreme Court decision legally established which discriminatory practice?

Correct Answer: C) Separate but equal doctrine

Thought Process: Plessy v. Ferguson upheld the constitutionality of racial segregation under the doctrine of "separate but equal," providing a legal basis for Jim Crow laws and widespread discrimination for decades.

24. Which of the following best describes the goal of civil service reform during the Gilded Age?

Correct Answer: B) To ensure government jobs were awarded based on merit.

Thought Process: Civil service reform, exemplified by the Pendleton Act, aimed to replace the patronage or "spoils system" with a system where government employment was based on competence rather than political connections.

25. Compare and contrast the approaches of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois in addressing racial inequality in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Which approach do you think was more effective for the time period, and why?

Expected Answer:
Booker T. Washington advocated for a strategy of vocational education, economic self-sufficiency, and gradual change. He believed that African Americans should focus on acquiring skills and establishing themselves economically within their communities, arguing that political and social equality would naturally follow. His "Atlanta Compromise" speech (1895) suggested that African Americans should temporarily forgo demands for civil rights in exchange for economic opportunities.

W.E.B. DuBois, on the other hand, argued for immediate and full civil rights and political equality. He believed in educating the "Talented Tenth" of African Americans to become leaders who would challenge segregation and discrimination directly. He co-founded the NAACP in 1909 to fight for civil rights through legal and political means, rejecting Washington's more accommodative stance.

Effectiveness for the time period (example reasoning): While both had valid points, DuBois's approach, particularly through the NAACP, laid crucial groundwork for future civil rights movements by directly challenging segregation legally. Washington's focus on economic uplift was important but arguably did not directly confront the systemic legal and social barriers that prevented true equality. Students could argue either way, but must provide clear reasoning. For example, some might argue Washington's approach was more pragmatic for the deeply segregated South, while others might argue DuBois's direct challenge was essential to prevent permanent subjugation.

Thought Process: Students should accurately describe the core tenets of each leader's philosophy (Washington: economic self-sufficiency, gradualism; DuBois: immediate civil rights, "Talented Tenth"). For the evaluative part, they need to make a claim about effectiveness and justify it with evidence from their described approaches.

26. READ THE QUOTE:

"The Constitution, in all its provisions, looks to an indestructible Union, composed of indestructible States." - Salmon P. Chase, Chief Justice of the United States

This quote emphasizes the founding principle of:

Correct Answer: A) Federalism

Thought Process: Federalism is the division of power between a national government and state governments. Chase's quote highlights the enduring nature of both the Union (national) and the States, directly reflecting the principle of federalism where power is shared but both levels of government are considered essential and permanent.

27. Which of the following contributed most to the rise of big business and monopolies in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) New technologies and laissez-faire policies.

Thought Process: Innovations in production and transportation (new technologies) allowed businesses to grow larger and more efficient. Concurrently, a prevailing philosophy of laissez-faire (minimal government regulation) allowed these large corporations to operate with little oversight, consolidate power, and form monopolies.

28. The Battle of Argonne Forest was a significant event during World War I because it:

Correct Answer: B) Was a major American offensive that helped end the war.

Thought Process: The Meuse-Argonne Offensive, culminating in the Battle of Argonne Forest, was a large-scale American-led operation in the final months of WWI. It pushed back German forces and played a crucial role in breaking the Hindenburg Line, significantly contributing to the Allied victory and the armistice.

29. Woodrow Wilson’s Fourteen Points primarily aimed to:

Correct Answer: B) Establish a lasting peace and prevent future wars.

Thought Process: Wilson's Fourteen Points were a comprehensive proposal for a post-WWI peace settlement, focusing on principles like self-determination, open diplomacy, freedom of the seas, and the creation of a League of Nations, all designed to address the root causes of war and prevent future conflicts.

30. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Women picketing for suffrage, early 20th century."

The scene implied by the caption is most closely associated with the passage of which amendment?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: "Suffrage" refers to the right to vote. Women picketing for suffrage directly relates to the movement that led to the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.

31. The Scopes Trial (1925) highlighted a cultural conflict between:

Correct Answer: B) Science and religious fundamentalism.

Thought Process: The Scopes Trial, also known as the "Monkey Trial," concerned a teacher accused of violating a Tennessee law that prohibited the teaching of evolution. It became a nationally publicized debate between modern scientific theories (evolution) and traditional religious beliefs (Biblical creationism), representing a clash between urban and rural values as well.

32. Marcus Garvey’s "Back to Africa" movement emphasized:

Correct Answer: C) Black nationalism and self-sufficiency.

Thought Process: Marcus Garvey advocated for racial pride, economic independence, and the establishment of independent Black nations. His "Back to Africa" movement encouraged African Americans to return to Africa to build their own societies, promoting self-reliance and unity among Black people.

33. C-E-R Response: Did the Progressive Era reforms fundamentally change American society, or were their impacts limited? Make a claim, support it with at least two pieces of evidence (specific reforms, muckrakers, or leaders), and explain your reasoning.

Expected Answer:
Claim: (Student makes a clear claim: e.g., "Progressive Era reforms fundamentally changed American society" OR "The impacts of Progressive Era reforms were limited.")

Evidence (must include at least two specific examples):

• Reforms: 16th Amendment (income tax), 17th Amendment (direct election of senators), 19th Amendment (women's suffrage), Initiative, Referendum, Recall (increased direct democracy), Pure Food and Drug Act, Meat Inspection Act (consumer protection).
• Muckrakers: Upton Sinclair (The Jungle), Ida Tarbell (The History of the Standard Oil Company), Jacob Riis (How the Other Half Lives).
• Leaders: Theodore Roosevelt (trust-busting, conservation), Woodrow Wilson (Federal Reserve, Clayton Antitrust Act), Jane Addams (settlement houses), Susan B. Anthony (suffrage), W.E.B. DuBois (civil rights).

Reasoning: Student explains how their chosen evidence supports their claim. For example:

• If claiming fundamental change: "The 19th Amendment fundamentally changed society by doubling the electorate and empowering women politically, leading to shifts in social roles and greater advocacy for women's issues. Additionally, muckrakers like Upton Sinclair, through The Jungle, exposed shocking conditions in industries, which led to significant government intervention with the Pure Food and Drug Act, proving that public outcry fueled by investigative journalism could prompt major regulatory changes that protected public health and challenged corporate power. These systemic changes in political participation, consumer protection, and government oversight represent fundamental shifts rather than limited impacts."
• If claiming limited impact: "Despite numerous reforms, the impact of the Progressive Era was limited because many fundamental inequalities, especially racial segregation and discrimination (as evidenced by the continued Jim Crow laws and the Plessy v. Ferguson decision), remained largely unaddressed by the federal government. While Booker T. Washington advocated for economic self-sufficiency, widespread systemic barriers persisted. Furthermore, some reforms, like Prohibition (18th Amendment), led to unintended negative consequences like organized crime, demonstrating the limits of government's ability to legislate morality and indicating that not all 'progress' had a truly positive societal impact."

Thought Process: This question requires students to analyze the Progressive Era, form a stance, and support it with specific historical evidence, explaining the connection between the evidence and their claim. They need to demonstrate a higher order of thinking (DOK 3).

34. Which of the following was a social issue of the 1920s directly related to the 18th Amendment?

Correct Answer: B) The rise of speakeasies and organized crime.

Thought Process: The 18th Amendment established Prohibition, banning the sale and manufacture of alcohol. This led to a thriving illegal alcohol industry, with clandestine bars (speakeasies) and the rise of powerful organized crime syndicates that profited from illicit liquor.

35. The term "Great Migration" refers to the movement of:

Correct Answer: C) African Americans from the rural South to Northern cities.

Thought Process: The Great Migration was a mass movement of millions of African Americans out of the rural Southern United States to the urban Northeast, Midwest, and West, driven by factors like escaping Jim Crow laws, seeking economic opportunities, and avoiding racial violence.

36. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Assembly line workers producing Model T automobiles, early 1900s."

The image implied by the caption demonstrates Henry Ford’s impact on:

Correct Answer: B) Mass production and consumer culture.

Thought Process: The assembly line was the cornerstone of Ford's mass production system. This innovation drastically reduced the cost and time of manufacturing, making the Model T affordable for the average American and ushering in an era of mass consumption and a new consumer culture.

37. Which event most directly led to the U.S. acquiring Guam, Puerto Rico, and temporary control over Cuba and the Philippines?

Correct Answer: C) The Spanish-American War

Thought Process: The Treaty of Paris (1898), which officially ended the Spanish-American War, ceded these territories to the United States, marking a significant moment in American expansionism.

38. The concept of "Social Darwinism" was often used to justify:

Correct Answer: C) Business monopolies and inequality.

Thought Process: Social Darwinism applied Darwinian principles of "survival of the fittest" to human society and business. It was used by wealthy industrialists to justify their immense wealth and power, arguing that they had risen to the top due to their inherent superiority, and that government intervention to help the poor or regulate business would interfere with natural societal progress.

39. The 17th Amendment enhanced democratic participation by:

Correct Answer: B) Allowing for the direct election of senators.

Thought Process: Prior to the 17th Amendment (1913), U.S. senators were chosen by state legislatures. The amendment mandated direct election by the people of each state, making the Senate more accountable to the electorate and increasing democratic participation.

40. READ THE QUOTE:

"The world must be made safe for democracy. Its peace must be planted upon the tested foundations of political liberty." - Woodrow Wilson

This quote best explains Wilson’s rationale for:

Correct Answer: C) U.S. entry into World War I

Thought Process: This famous quote is from Wilson's address to Congress asking for a declaration of war against Germany in April 1917. It encapsulates his idealistic view that the U.S. needed to intervene in WWI not for territorial gain or revenge, but to defend democratic principles globally against autocratic threats.

Shaping America: 1877-1920s Semester Exam Answer Key

Section 1: Founding Principles & Historical Context (TEKS 1, 2)

1. READ THE QUOTE:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - The Declaration of Independence

Which of the following principles from the Declaration of Independence is most directly reflected in the passage above?

Correct Answer: C) Individual Rights

Thought Process: The quote explicitly mentions "unalienable Rights," including "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness," which are fundamental individual rights that the Declaration asserts are inherent to all people.

2. The U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights were created to primarily address which concern of the founding fathers?

Correct Answer: C) The fear of an overly powerful central government.

Thought Process: Following the experience with British monarchy and the weak Articles of Confederation, the framers aimed to create a stronger federal government but included the Bill of Rights to explicitly limit its power and prevent tyranny, a primary concern.

3. Explain the meaning and historical significance of the motto "E Pluribus Unum" and how it reflects the early challenges and aspirations of the United States. Provide at least two pieces of historical context.

Expected Answer: "E Pluribus Unum" translates to "Out of Many, One." Its historical significance lies in representing the idea that the United States was formed from a union of many separate states and diverse peoples into a single, unified nation. This motto was particularly relevant during the early challenges of the U.S. when the newly independent states, despite their individual identities and varied interests, needed to come together to form a cohesive federal republic. It also reflected the aspiration to forge a national identity from a population comprised of different European immigrant groups and distinct regional cultures. The adoption of this motto on the Great Seal of the United States in 1782 underscored this foundational desire for unity and collective strength from diverse origins, crucial for the survival and growth of the fledgling nation.

Thought Process: Students should explain the translation and connect it to the challenges of forming a unified nation from diverse states/peoples post-Revolution, demonstrating knowledge of the motto’s historical context and purpose.

4. The Spanish-American War in 1898 is considered a major turning point because it marked:

Correct Answer: C) The emergence of the United States as a global power.

Thought Process: The U.S. victory in the Spanish-American War resulted in the acquisition of overseas territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, signaling a definitive shift from isolationism to an active role on the world stage.

5. Which of the following best describes a defining characteristic of the Gilded Age (1877-1898)?

Correct Answer: C) Significant technological innovation alongside social inequality.

Thought Process: The Gilded Age was characterized by rapid industrial growth and new technologies (e.g., railroads, steel, oil) but also by immense wealth disparity, poor working conditions, and significant social problems hidden beneath a glittering surface.

6. Analyze the impact of political machines on urban areas during the late 19th century. Discuss both the benefits (if any) and drawbacks of their influence on city governance and immigrant communities.

Expected Answer: Political machines, such as Tammany Hall in New York, had both benefits and drawbacks in late 19th-century urban areas. Benefits often included providing essential services to urban residents, especially immigrant communities, who were frequently overlooked by official city governments. Machines offered jobs, housing, food, and assistance with naturalization, helping immigrants adapt to American life. In return, they expected loyalty and votes. Drawbacks were extensive corruption, including graft, bribery, and voter fraud. Machine bosses often enriched themselves at public expense, mismanaged city funds, and undermined democratic processes. While they helped some individuals, they often did so by exploiting public resources and consolidating power unethically.

Thought Process: Students should explain the functions of political machines, identifying both the practical support they offered (benefits) and the systemic corruption and undemocratic practices they fostered (drawbacks).

7. READ THE QUOTE:

"The great corporations are not content with high profits, but by every means in their power seek to prevent the workers from enjoying their full share of the prosperity they create." - Samuel Gompers, founder of the American Federation of Labor

Based on Gompers’ statement, what was a primary economic issue leading to the growth of labor unions in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) Unequal distribution of wealth and worker exploitation.

Thought Process: Gompers’ quote directly points to corporations hoarding profits and denying workers their fair share, which directly translates to issues of unequal wealth distribution and the exploitation of labor, leading workers to organize for better conditions and wages.

8. Alfred Thayer Mahan’s ideas about naval power most directly contributed to which U.S. foreign policy development?

Correct Answer: C) The acquisition of overseas territories for naval bases.

Thought Process: Mahan argued that a powerful navy was essential for national greatness and required coaling stations and naval bases worldwide. This directly influenced the U.S. decision to acquire strategic overseas territories to support its growing navy and global ambitions.

9. The annexation of Hawaii and the acquisition of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War exemplify what broader U.S. foreign policy trend?

Correct Answer: C) Expansionism

Thought Process: Both actions demonstrate the U.S. policy of extending its territory, economic influence, and political control over areas beyond its continental borders, which is the definition of expansionism or imperialism.

10. Examine the reasons for U.S. entry into World War I. Select two specific events or policies and explain how they led to America’s decision to abandon neutrality.

Expected Answer: Two key reasons for U.S. entry into World War I were:

1. Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: Germany resumed its policy of sinking merchant ships without warning in 1917, including American vessels and ships carrying American citizens (like the Lusitania in 1915). This direct threat to American lives and shipping interests, despite U.S. protests, made continued neutrality increasingly untenable and was seen as an act of aggression.
2. Zimmermann Telegram: In January 1917, a secret diplomatic communication from Germany to Mexico was intercepted and decoded by British intelligence. It proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico, promising German support for Mexico to reclaim lost territories in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona if the U.S. entered the war. The revelation of this plot intensified anti-German sentiment and convinced many Americans that Germany posed a direct threat to U.S. security and sovereignty.

Thought Process: Students should identify two distinct causes and explain how each specifically contributed to the U.S. abandonment of neutrality and eventual declaration of war.

11. READ THE DESCRIPTION:

"Soldiers dug elaborate networks of ditches protected by barbed wire, creating a static battleground where advances were measured in yards and casualties were immense."

This description primarily refers to the impact of which technological innovation and warfare strategy in World War I?

Correct Answer: C) Trench warfare and machine guns

Thought Process: The description of "networks of ditches," "barbed wire," "static battleground," and "immense casualties" directly points to the characteristics of trench warfare, which was made particularly deadly and static by the defensive power of machine guns.

Section 4: Progressive Era & The Roaring Twenties (TEKS 5, 6)

12. Which Progressive Era reform allowed citizens to remove an elected official from office before their term expired?

Correct Answer: C) Recall

Thought Process: The recall is a procedure by which voters can remove an elected official from office through a direct vote before their term has ended. This was a key Progressive reform aimed at increasing direct democracy and accountability.

13. Analyze the impact of the 19th Amendment on American society beyond just granting women the right to vote. How did this amendment contribute to broader social or political changes in the early 20th century?

Expected Answer: The 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote in 1920, had impacts far beyond simply expanding suffrage. Politically, it doubled the electorate, forcing politicians to consider women’s issues and constituencies, potentially influencing legislation on social welfare, education, and public health. Socially, it contributed to a broader movement for women’s equality and independence. While not immediately leading to radical changes, it empowered women to become more active in public life and civic organizations, challenging traditional gender roles and contributing to the cultural shifts seen in the "Roaring Twenties," where women increasingly sought economic independence and new social freedoms.

Thought Process: Students should explain not only that the 19th Amendment gave women the vote but also discuss its broader political influence (on elections, policy) and social implications (women’s roles, independence).

14. Upton Sinclair’s novel The Jungle is an example of muckraking primarily because it:

Correct Answer: B) Exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry.

Thought Process: Muckrakers were investigative journalists who aimed to expose corruption and social problems. Sinclair’s The Jungle vividly detailed the horrific and unsanitary conditions in Chicago’s meatpacking plants, directly leading to public outrage and the passage of food safety legislation.

15. The Populist Party, formed in the late 19th century, primarily sought to address the grievances of which group?

Correct Answer: C) Southern sharecroppers and Western farmers

Thought Process: The Populist Party arose from agrarian discontent in the late 19th century, representing the economic and political interests of farmers who felt exploited by banks, railroads, and industrial trusts.

16. The Red Scare following World War I was a period characterized by:

Correct Answer: B) Widespread fear of socialist and anarchist ideologies.

Thought Process: The Red Scare was a period of intense anti-radical and anti-immigrant hysteria, largely driven by fears of communist and anarchist infiltration in the wake of the Russian Revolution and a series of domestic bombings.

17. Describe how Henry Ford’s innovations in automobile manufacturing transformed American society beyond just transportation. Consider economic, social, or cultural impacts.

Expected Answer: Henry Ford’s innovations, particularly the assembly line and mass production of the Model T, transformed American society in numerous ways beyond simply providing transportation. Economically, it led to the growth of related industries like steel, rubber, glass, and oil, creating millions of new jobs and stimulating the economy. It also made cars affordable for the average American, contributing to a new consumer culture. Socially and culturally, the automobile fostered greater personal mobility and independence, changing dating patterns, encouraging suburbanization, and contributing to the decline of rural isolation. It also led to the development of new infrastructure like paved roads and gas stations, fundamentally reshaping American landscapes and lifestyles.

Thought Process: Students should go beyond just stating Ford made cars cheaper and discuss broader economic shifts (related industries, consumerism) and socio-cultural changes (mobility, suburbanization, new lifestyles).

18. The “Flapperâ€

of the 1920s best symbolizes:

Correct Answer: C) Women’s growing independence and changing social norms

Thought Process: The Flapper image, with her bobbed hair, shorter skirts, and more daring behavior, symbolized the new freedoms and challenges to traditional social conventions that many women embraced in the 1920s, representing a shift towards greater female independence.

19. Which amendment granted women the right to vote, significantly expanding democratic participation?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: This is a direct recall question about the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, which guaranteed women’s suffrage.

20. The “Return to Normalcyâ€

slogan after World War I represented a desire for:

Correct Answer: C) A return to pre-war conservative policies.

Thought Process: President Harding’s slogan appealed to Americans weary of progressive reforms and the sacrifices of war, promising a return to a simpler, more conservative time with less government intervention and international entanglement.

21. Which of the following was a major cause of the growth of urbanization in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: B) Increased agricultural output leading to fewer farm jobs.

Thought Process: Technological advancements in agriculture meant fewer laborers were needed on farms, pushing rural populations to seek opportunities in rapidly industrializing cities. This, combined with immigration, fueled urban growth.

22. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, New York, early 20th century."

Based on the image implied, what was a common social issue faced by immigrants arriving in the U.S. during this period?

Correct Answer: C) Nativist sentiment and discrimination.

Thought Process: Ellis Island was the gateway for millions of immigrants, who often faced significant nativist backlash, prejudice, and discrimination from established Americans who viewed them as threats to jobs or American culture.

23. The Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) Supreme Court decision legally established which discriminatory practice?

Correct Answer: C) Separate but equal doctrine

Thought Process: Plessy v. Ferguson upheld the constitutionality of racial segregation under the doctrine of "separate but equal," providing a legal basis for Jim Crow laws and widespread discrimination for decades.

24. Which of the following best describes the goal of civil service reform during the Gilded Age?

Correct Answer: B) To ensure government jobs were awarded based on merit.

Thought Process: Civil service reform, exemplified by the Pendleton Act, aimed to replace the patronage or "spoils system" with a system where government employment was based on competence rather than political connections.

25. Compare and contrast the approaches of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois in addressing racial inequality in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Which approach do you think was more effective for the time period, and why?

Expected Answer:
Booker T. Washington advocated for a strategy of vocational education, economic self-sufficiency, and gradual change. He believed that African Americans should focus on acquiring skills and establishing themselves economically within their communities, arguing that political and social equality would naturally follow. His "Atlanta Compromise" speech (1895) suggested that African Americans should temporarily forgo demands for civil rights in exchange for economic opportunities.

W.E.B. DuBois, on the other hand, argued for immediate and full civil rights and political equality. He believed in educating the "Talented Tenth" of African Americans to become leaders who would challenge segregation and discrimination directly. He co-founded the NAACP in 1909 to fight for civil rights through legal and political means, rejecting Washington's more accommodative stance.

Effectiveness for the time period (example reasoning): While both had valid points, DuBois's approach, particularly through the NAACP, laid crucial groundwork for future civil rights movements by directly challenging segregation legally. Washington's focus on economic uplift was important but arguably did not directly confront the systemic legal and social barriers that prevented true equality. Students could argue either way, but must provide clear reasoning. For example, some might argue Washington's approach was more pragmatic for the deeply segregated South, while others might argue DuBois's direct challenge was essential to prevent permanent subjugation.

Thought Process: Students should accurately describe the core tenets of each leader's philosophy (Washington: economic self-sufficiency, gradualism; DuBois: immediate civil rights, "Talented Tenth"). For the evaluative part, they need to make a claim about effectiveness and justify it with evidence from their described approaches.

26. READ THE QUOTE:

"The Constitution, in all its provisions, looks to an indestructible Union, composed of indestructible States." - Salmon P. Chase, Chief Justice of the United States

This quote emphasizes the founding principle of:

Correct Answer: A) Federalism

Thought Process: Federalism is the division of power between a national government and state governments. Chase's quote highlights the enduring nature of both the Union (national) and the States, directly reflecting the principle of federalism where power is shared but both levels of government are considered essential and permanent.

27. Which of the following contributed most to the rise of big business and monopolies in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) New technologies and laissez-faire policies.

Thought Process: Innovations in production and transportation (new technologies) allowed businesses to grow larger and more efficient. Concurrently, a prevailing philosophy of laissez-faire (minimal government regulation) allowed these large corporations to operate with little oversight, consolidate power, and form monopolies.

28. The Battle of Argonne Forest was a significant event during World War I because it:

Correct Answer: B) Was a major American offensive that helped end the war.

Thought Process: The Meuse-Argonne Offensive, culminating in the Battle of Argonne Forest, was a large-scale American-led operation in the final months of WWI. It pushed back German forces and played a crucial role in breaking the Hindenburg Line, significantly contributing to the Allied victory and the armistice.

29. Woodrow Wilson’s Fourteen Points primarily aimed to:

Correct Answer: B) Establish a lasting peace and prevent future wars.

Thought Process: Wilson's Fourteen Points were a comprehensive proposal for a post-WWI peace settlement, focusing on principles like self-determination, open diplomacy, freedom of the seas, and the creation of a League of Nations, all designed to address the root causes of war and prevent future conflicts.

30. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Women picketing for suffrage, early 20th century."

The scene implied by the caption is most closely associated with the passage of which amendment?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: "Suffrage" refers to the right to vote. Women picketing for suffrage directly relates to the movement that led to the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.

31. The Scopes Trial (1925) highlighted a cultural conflict between:

Correct Answer: B) Science and religious fundamentalism.

Thought Process: The Scopes Trial, also known as the "Monkey Trial," concerned a teacher accused of violating a Tennessee law that prohibited the teaching of evolution. It became a nationally publicized debate between modern scientific theories (evolution) and traditional religious beliefs (Biblical creationism), representing a clash between urban and rural values as well.

32. Marcus Garvey’s "Back to Africa" movement emphasized:

Correct Answer: C) Black nationalism and self-sufficiency.

Thought Process: Marcus Garvey advocated for racial pride, economic independence, and the establishment of independent Black nations. His "Back to Africa" movement encouraged African Americans to return to Africa to build their own societies, promoting self-reliance and unity among Black people.

33. C-E-R Response: Did the Progressive Era reforms fundamentally change American society, or were their impacts limited? Make a claim, support it with at least two pieces of evidence (specific reforms, muckrakers, or leaders), and explain your reasoning.

Expected Answer:
Claim: (Student makes a clear claim: e.g., "Progressive Era reforms fundamentally changed American society" OR "The impacts of Progressive Era reforms were limited.")

Evidence (must include at least two specific examples):

• Reforms: 16th Amendment (income tax), 17th Amendment (direct election of senators), 19th Amendment (women's suffrage), Initiative, Referendum, Recall (increased direct democracy), Pure Food and Drug Act, Meat Inspection Act (consumer protection).
• Muckrakers: Upton Sinclair (The Jungle), Ida Tarbell (The History of the Standard Oil Company), Jacob Riis (How the Other Half Lives).
• Leaders: Theodore Roosevelt (trust-busting, conservation), Woodrow Wilson (Federal Reserve, Clayton Antitrust Act), Jane Addams (settlement houses), Susan B. Anthony (suffrage), W.E.B. DuBois (civil rights).

Reasoning: Student explains how their chosen evidence supports their claim. For example:

• If claiming fundamental change: "The 19th Amendment fundamentally changed society by doubling the electorate and empowering women politically, leading to shifts in social roles and greater advocacy for women's issues. Additionally, muckrakers like Upton Sinclair, through The Jungle, exposed shocking conditions in industries, which led to significant government intervention with the Pure Food and Drug Act, proving that public outcry fueled by investigative journalism could prompt major regulatory changes that protected public health and challenged corporate power. These systemic changes in political participation, consumer protection, and government oversight represent fundamental shifts rather than limited impacts."
• If claiming limited impact: "Despite numerous reforms, the impact of the Progressive Era was limited because many fundamental inequalities, especially racial segregation and discrimination (as evidenced by the continued Jim Crow laws and the Plessy v. Ferguson decision), remained largely unaddressed by the federal government. While Booker T. Washington advocated for economic self-sufficiency, widespread systemic barriers persisted. Furthermore, some reforms, like Prohibition (18th Amendment), led to unintended negative consequences like organized crime, demonstrating the limits of government's ability to legislate morality and indicating that not all 'progress' had a truly positive societal impact."

Thought Process: This question requires students to analyze the Progressive Era, form a stance, and support it with specific historical evidence, explaining the connection between the evidence and their claim. They need to demonstrate a higher order of thinking (DOK 3).

34. Which of the following was a social issue of the 1920s directly related to the 18th Amendment?

Correct Answer: B) The rise of speakeasies and organized crime.

Thought Process: The 18th Amendment established Prohibition, banning the sale and manufacture of alcohol. This led to a thriving illegal alcohol industry, with clandestine bars (speakeasies) and the rise of powerful organized crime syndicates that profited from illicit liquor.

35. The term "Great Migration" refers to the movement of:

Correct Answer: C) African Americans from the rural South to Northern cities.

Thought Process: The Great Migration was a mass movement of millions of African Americans out of the rural Southern United States to the urban Northeast, Midwest, and West, driven by factors like escaping Jim Crow laws, seeking economic opportunities, and avoiding racial violence.

36. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Assembly line workers producing Model T automobiles, early 1900s."

The image implied by the caption demonstrates Henry Ford’s impact on:

Correct Answer: B) Mass production and consumer culture.

Thought Process: The assembly line was the cornerstone of Ford's mass production system. This innovation drastically reduced the cost and time of manufacturing, making the Model T affordable for the average American and ushering in an era of mass consumption and a new consumer culture.

37. Which event most directly led to the U.S. acquiring Guam, Puerto Rico, and temporary control over Cuba and the Philippines?

Correct Answer: C) The Spanish-American War

Thought Process: The Treaty of Paris (1898), which officially ended the Spanish-American War, ceded these territories to the United States, marking a significant moment in American expansionism.

38. The concept of "Social Darwinism" was often used to justify:

Correct Answer: C) Business monopolies and inequality.

Thought Process: Social Darwinism applied Darwinian principles of "survival of the fittest" to human society and business. It was used by wealthy industrialists to justify their immense wealth and power, arguing that they had risen to the top due to their inherent superiority, and that government intervention to help the poor or regulate business would interfere with natural societal progress.

39. The 17th Amendment enhanced democratic participation by:

Correct Answer: B) Allowing for the direct election of senators.

Thought Process: Prior to the 17th Amendment (1913), U.S. senators were chosen by state legislatures. The amendment mandated direct election by the people of each state, making the Senate more accountable to the electorate and increasing democratic participation.

40. READ THE QUOTE:

"The world must be made safe for democracy. Its peace must be planted upon the tested foundations of political liberty." - Woodrow Wilson

This quote best explains Wilson’s rationale for:

Correct Answer: C) U.S. entry into World War I

Thought Process: This famous quote is from Wilson's address to Congress asking for a declaration of war against Germany in April 1917. It encapsulates his idealistic view that the U.S. needed to intervene in WWI not for territorial gain or revenge, but to defend democratic principles globally against autocratic threats.

Shaping America: 1877-1920s Semester Exam Answer Key

Section 1: Founding Principles & Historical Context (TEKS 1, 2)

1. READ THE QUOTE:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - The Declaration of Independence

Which of the following principles from the Declaration of Independence is most directly reflected in the passage above?

Correct Answer: C) Individual Rights

Thought Process: The quote explicitly mentions "unalienable Rights," including "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness," which are fundamental individual rights that the Declaration asserts are inherent to all people.

2. The U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights were created to primarily address which concern of the founding fathers?

Correct Answer: C) The fear of an overly powerful central government.

Thought Process: Following the experience with British monarchy and the weak Articles of Confederation, the framers aimed to create a stronger federal government but included the Bill of Rights to explicitly limit its power and prevent tyranny, a primary concern.

3. Explain the meaning and historical significance of the motto "E Pluribus Unum" and how it reflects the early challenges and aspirations of the United States. Provide at least two pieces of historical context.

Expected Answer: "E Pluribus Unum" translates to "Out of Many, One." Its historical significance lies in representing the idea that the United States was formed from a union of many separate states and diverse peoples into a single, unified nation. This motto was particularly relevant during the early challenges of the U.S. when the newly independent states, despite their individual identities and varied interests, needed to come together to form a cohesive federal republic. It also reflected the aspiration to forge a national identity from a population comprised of different European immigrant groups and distinct regional cultures. The adoption of this motto on the Great Seal of the United States in 1782 underscored this foundational desire for unity and collective strength from diverse origins, crucial for the survival and growth of the fledgling nation.

Thought Process: Students should explain the translation and connect it to the challenges of forming a unified nation from diverse states/peoples post-Revolution, demonstrating knowledge of the motto’s historical context and purpose.

4. The Spanish-American War in 1898 is considered a major turning point because it marked:

Correct Answer: C) The emergence of the United States as a global power.

Thought Process: The U.S. victory in the Spanish-American War resulted in the acquisition of overseas territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, signaling a definitive shift from isolationism to an active role on the world stage.

5. Which of the following best describes a defining characteristic of the Gilded Age (1877-1898)?

Correct Answer: C) Significant technological innovation alongside social inequality.

Thought Process: The Gilded Age was characterized by rapid industrial growth and new technologies (e.g., railroads, steel, oil) but also by immense wealth disparity, poor working conditions, and significant social problems hidden beneath a glittering surface.

6. Analyze the impact of political machines on urban areas during the late 19th century. Discuss both the benefits (if any) and drawbacks of their influence on city governance and immigrant communities.

Expected Answer: Political machines, such as Tammany Hall in New York, had both benefits and drawbacks in late 19th-century urban areas. Benefits often included providing essential services to urban residents, especially immigrant communities, who were frequently overlooked by official city governments. Machines offered jobs, housing, food, and assistance with naturalization, helping immigrants adapt to American life. In return, they expected loyalty and votes. Drawbacks were extensive corruption, including graft, bribery, and voter fraud. Machine bosses often enriched themselves at public expense, mismanaged city funds, and undermined democratic processes. While they helped some individuals, they often did so by exploiting public resources and consolidating power unethically.

Thought Process: Students should explain the functions of political machines, identifying both the practical support they offered (benefits) and the systemic corruption and undemocratic practices they fostered (drawbacks).

7. READ THE QUOTE:

"The great corporations are not content with high profits, but by every means in their power seek to prevent the workers from enjoying their full share of the prosperity they create." - Samuel Gompers, founder of the American Federation of Labor

Based on Gompers’ statement, what was a primary economic issue leading to the growth of labor unions in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) Unequal distribution of wealth and worker exploitation.

Thought Process: Gompers’ quote directly points to corporations hoarding profits and denying workers their fair share, which directly translates to issues of unequal wealth distribution and the exploitation of labor, leading workers to organize for better conditions and wages.

8. Alfred Thayer Mahan’s ideas about naval power most directly contributed to which U.S. foreign policy development?

Correct Answer: C) The acquisition of overseas territories for naval bases.

Thought Process: Mahan argued that a powerful navy was essential for national greatness and required coaling stations and naval bases worldwide. This directly influenced the U.S. decision to acquire strategic overseas territories to support its growing navy and global ambitions.

9. The annexation of Hawaii and the acquisition of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War exemplify what broader U.S. foreign policy trend?

Correct Answer: C) Expansionism

Thought Process: Both actions demonstrate the U.S. policy of extending its territory, economic influence, and political control over areas beyond its continental borders, which is the definition of expansionism or imperialism.

10. Examine the reasons for U.S. entry into World War I. Select two specific events or policies and explain how they led to America’s decision to abandon neutrality.

Expected Answer: Two key reasons for U.S. entry into World War I were:

1. Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: Germany resumed its policy of sinking merchant ships without warning in 1917, including American vessels and ships carrying American citizens (like the Lusitania in 1915). This direct threat to American lives and shipping interests, despite U.S. protests, made continued neutrality increasingly untenable and was seen as an act of aggression.
2. Zimmermann Telegram: In January 1917, a secret diplomatic communication from Germany to Mexico was intercepted and decoded by British intelligence. It proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico, promising German support for Mexico to reclaim lost territories in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona if the U.S. entered the war. The revelation of this plot intensified anti-German sentiment and convinced many Americans that Germany posed a direct threat to U.S. security and sovereignty.

Thought Process: Students should identify two distinct causes and explain how each specifically contributed to the U.S. abandonment of neutrality and eventual declaration of war.

11. READ THE DESCRIPTION:

"Soldiers dug elaborate networks of ditches protected by barbed wire, creating a static battleground where advances were measured in yards and casualties were immense."

This description primarily refers to the impact of which technological innovation and warfare strategy in World War I?

Correct Answer: C) Trench warfare and machine guns

Thought Process: The description of "networks of ditches," "barbed wire," "static battleground," and "immense casualties" directly points to the characteristics of trench warfare, which was made particularly deadly and static by the defensive power of machine guns.

Section 4: Progressive Era & The Roaring Twenties (TEKS 5, 6)

12. Which Progressive Era reform allowed citizens to remove an elected official from office before their term expired?

Correct Answer: C) Recall

Thought Process: The recall is a procedure by which voters can remove an elected official from office through a direct vote before their term has ended. This was a key Progressive reform aimed at increasing direct democracy and accountability.

13. Analyze the impact of the 19th Amendment on American society beyond just granting women the right to vote. How did this amendment contribute to broader social or political changes in the early 20th century?

Expected Answer: The 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote in 1920, had impacts far beyond simply expanding suffrage. Politically, it doubled the electorate, forcing politicians to consider women’s issues and constituencies, potentially influencing legislation on social welfare, education, and public health. Socially, it contributed to a broader movement for women’s equality and independence. While not immediately leading to radical changes, it empowered women to become more active in public life and civic organizations, challenging traditional gender roles and contributing to the cultural shifts seen in the "Roaring Twenties," where women increasingly sought economic independence and new social freedoms.

Thought Process: Students should explain not only that the 19th Amendment gave women the vote but also discuss its broader political influence (on elections, policy) and social implications (women’s roles, independence).

14. Upton Sinclair’s novel The Jungle is an example of muckraking primarily because it:

Correct Answer: B) Exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry.

Thought Process: Muckrakers were investigative journalists who aimed to expose corruption and social problems. Sinclair’s The Jungle vividly detailed the horrific and unsanitary conditions in Chicago’s meatpacking plants, directly leading to public outrage and the passage of food safety legislation.

15. The Populist Party, formed in the late 19th century, primarily sought to address the grievances of which group?

Correct Answer: C) Southern sharecroppers and Western farmers

Thought Process: The Populist Party arose from agrarian discontent in the late 19th century, representing the economic and political interests of farmers who felt exploited by banks, railroads, and industrial trusts.

16. The Red Scare following World War I was a period characterized by:

Correct Answer: B) Widespread fear of socialist and anarchist ideologies.

Thought Process: The Red Scare was a period of intense anti-radical and anti-immigrant hysteria, largely driven by fears of communist and anarchist infiltration in the wake of the Russian Revolution and a series of domestic bombings.

17. Describe how Henry Ford’s innovations in automobile manufacturing transformed American society beyond just transportation. Consider economic, social, or cultural impacts.

Expected Answer: Henry Ford’s innovations, particularly the assembly line and mass production of the Model T, transformed American society in numerous ways beyond simply providing transportation. Economically, it led to the growth of related industries like steel, rubber, glass, and oil, creating millions of new jobs and stimulating the economy. It also made cars affordable for the average American, contributing to a new consumer culture. Socially and culturally, the automobile fostered greater personal mobility and independence, changing dating patterns, encouraging suburbanization, and contributing to the decline of rural isolation. It also led to the development of new infrastructure like paved roads and gas stations, fundamentally reshaping American landscapes and lifestyles.

Thought Process: Students should go beyond just stating Ford made cars cheaper and discuss broader economic shifts (related industries, consumerism) and socio-cultural changes (mobility, suburbanization, new lifestyles).

18. The “Flapperâ€

of the 1920s best symbolizes:

Correct Answer: C) Women’s growing independence and changing social norms

Thought Process: The Flapper image, with her bobbed hair, shorter skirts, and more daring behavior, symbolized the new freedoms and challenges to traditional social conventions that many women embraced in the 1920s, representing a shift towards greater female independence.

19. Which amendment granted women the right to vote, significantly expanding democratic participation?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: This is a direct recall question about the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, which guaranteed women’s suffrage.

20. The “Return to Normalcyâ€

slogan after World War I represented a desire for:

Correct Answer: C) A return to pre-war conservative policies.

Thought Process: President Harding’s slogan appealed to Americans weary of progressive reforms and the sacrifices of war, promising a return to a simpler, more conservative time with less government intervention and international entanglement.

21. Which of the following was a major cause of the growth of urbanization in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: B) Increased agricultural output leading to fewer farm jobs.

Thought Process: Technological advancements in agriculture meant fewer laborers were needed on farms, pushing rural populations to seek opportunities in rapidly industrializing cities. This, combined with immigration, fueled urban growth.

22. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, New York, early 20th century."

Based on the image implied, what was a common social issue faced by immigrants arriving in the U.S. during this period?

Correct Answer: C) Nativist sentiment and discrimination.

Thought Process: Ellis Island was the gateway for millions of immigrants, who often faced significant nativist backlash, prejudice, and discrimination from established Americans who viewed them as threats to jobs or American culture.

23. The Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) Supreme Court decision legally established which discriminatory practice?

Correct Answer: C) Separate but equal doctrine

Thought Process: Plessy v. Ferguson upheld the constitutionality of racial segregation under the doctrine of "separate but equal," providing a legal basis for Jim Crow laws and widespread discrimination for decades.

24. Which of the following best describes the goal of civil service reform during the Gilded Age?

Correct Answer: B) To ensure government jobs were awarded based on merit.

Thought Process: Civil service reform, exemplified by the Pendleton Act, aimed to replace the patronage or "spoils system" with a system where government employment was based on competence rather than political connections.

25. Compare and contrast the approaches of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois in addressing racial inequality in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Which approach do you think was more effective for the time period, and why?

Expected Answer:
Booker T. Washington advocated for a strategy of vocational education, economic self-sufficiency, and gradual change. He believed that African Americans should focus on acquiring skills and establishing themselves economically within their communities, arguing that political and social equality would naturally follow. His "Atlanta Compromise" speech (1895) suggested that African Americans should temporarily forgo demands for civil rights in exchange for economic opportunities.

W.E.B. DuBois, on the other hand, argued for immediate and full civil rights and political equality. He believed in educating the "Talented Tenth" of African Americans to become leaders who would challenge segregation and discrimination directly. He co-founded the NAACP in 1909 to fight for civil rights through legal and political means, rejecting Washington's more accommodative stance.

Effectiveness for the time period (example reasoning): While both had valid points, DuBois's approach, particularly through the NAACP, laid crucial groundwork for future civil rights movements by directly challenging segregation legally. Washington's focus on economic uplift was important but arguably did not directly confront the systemic legal and social barriers that prevented true equality. Students could argue either way, but must provide clear reasoning. For example, some might argue Washington's approach was more pragmatic for the deeply segregated South, while others might argue DuBois's direct challenge was essential to prevent permanent subjugation.

Thought Process: Students should accurately describe the core tenets of each leader's philosophy (Washington: economic self-sufficiency, gradualism; DuBois: immediate civil rights, "Talented Tenth"). For the evaluative part, they need to make a claim about effectiveness and justify it with evidence from their described approaches.

26. READ THE QUOTE:

"The Constitution, in all its provisions, looks to an indestructible Union, composed of indestructible States." - Salmon P. Chase, Chief Justice of the United States

This quote emphasizes the founding principle of:

Correct Answer: A) Federalism

Thought Process: Federalism is the division of power between a national government and state governments. Chase's quote highlights the enduring nature of both the Union (national) and the States, directly reflecting the principle of federalism where power is shared but both levels of government are considered essential and permanent.

27. Which of the following contributed most to the rise of big business and monopolies in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) New technologies and laissez-faire policies.

Thought Process: Innovations in production and transportation (new technologies) allowed businesses to grow larger and more efficient. Concurrently, a prevailing philosophy of laissez-faire (minimal government regulation) allowed these large corporations to operate with little oversight, consolidate power, and form monopolies.

28. The Battle of Argonne Forest was a significant event during World War I because it:

Correct Answer: B) Was a major American offensive that helped end the war.

Thought Process: The Meuse-Argonne Offensive, culminating in the Battle of Argonne Forest, was a large-scale American-led operation in the final months of WWI. It pushed back German forces and played a crucial role in breaking the Hindenburg Line, significantly contributing to the Allied victory and the armistice.

29. Woodrow Wilson’s Fourteen Points primarily aimed to:

Correct Answer: B) Establish a lasting peace and prevent future wars.

Thought Process: Wilson's Fourteen Points were a comprehensive proposal for a post-WWI peace settlement, focusing on principles like self-determination, open diplomacy, freedom of the seas, and the creation of a League of Nations, all designed to address the root causes of war and prevent future conflicts.

30. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Women picketing for suffrage, early 20th century."

The scene implied by the caption is most closely associated with the passage of which amendment?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: "Suffrage" refers to the right to vote. Women picketing for suffrage directly relates to the movement that led to the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.

31. The Scopes Trial (1925) highlighted a cultural conflict between:

Correct Answer: B) Science and religious fundamentalism.

Thought Process: The Scopes Trial, also known as the "Monkey Trial," concerned a teacher accused of violating a Tennessee law that prohibited the teaching of evolution. It became a nationally publicized debate between modern scientific theories (evolution) and traditional religious beliefs (Biblical creationism), representing a clash between urban and rural values as well.

32. Marcus Garvey’s "Back to Africa" movement emphasized:

Correct Answer: C) Black nationalism and self-sufficiency.

Thought Process: Marcus Garvey advocated for racial pride, economic independence, and the establishment of independent Black nations. His "Back to Africa" movement encouraged African Americans to return to Africa to build their own societies, promoting self-reliance and unity among Black people.

33. C-E-R Response: Did the Progressive Era reforms fundamentally change American society, or were their impacts limited? Make a claim, support it with at least two pieces of evidence (specific reforms, muckrakers, or leaders), and explain your reasoning.

Expected Answer:
Claim: (Student makes a clear claim: e.g., "Progressive Era reforms fundamentally changed American society" OR "The impacts of Progressive Era reforms were limited.")

Evidence (must include at least two specific examples):

• Reforms: 16th Amendment (income tax), 17th Amendment (direct election of senators), 19th Amendment (women's suffrage), Initiative, Referendum, Recall (increased direct democracy), Pure Food and Drug Act, Meat Inspection Act (consumer protection).
• Muckrakers: Upton Sinclair (The Jungle), Ida Tarbell (The History of the Standard Oil Company), Jacob Riis (How the Other Half Lives).
• Leaders: Theodore Roosevelt (trust-busting, conservation), Woodrow Wilson (Federal Reserve, Clayton Antitrust Act), Jane Addams (settlement houses), Susan B. Anthony (suffrage), W.E.B. DuBois (civil rights).

Reasoning: Student explains how their chosen evidence supports their claim. For example:

• If claiming fundamental change: "The 19th Amendment fundamentally changed society by doubling the electorate and empowering women politically, leading to shifts in social roles and greater advocacy for women's issues. Additionally, muckrakers like Upton Sinclair, through The Jungle, exposed shocking conditions in industries, which led to significant government intervention with the Pure Food and Drug Act, proving that public outcry fueled by investigative journalism could prompt major regulatory changes that protected public health and challenged corporate power. These systemic changes in political participation, consumer protection, and government oversight represent fundamental shifts rather than limited impacts."
• If claiming limited impact: "Despite numerous reforms, the impact of the Progressive Era was limited because many fundamental inequalities, especially racial segregation and discrimination (as evidenced by the continued Jim Crow laws and the Plessy v. Ferguson decision), remained largely unaddressed by the federal government. While Booker T. Washington advocated for economic self-sufficiency, widespread systemic barriers persisted. Furthermore, some reforms, like Prohibition (18th Amendment), led to unintended negative consequences like organized crime, demonstrating the limits of government's ability to legislate morality and indicating that not all 'progress' had a truly positive societal impact."

Thought Process: This question requires students to analyze the Progressive Era, form a stance, and support it with specific historical evidence, explaining the connection between the evidence and their claim. They need to demonstrate a higher order of thinking (DOK 3).

34. Which of the following was a social issue of the 1920s directly related to the 18th Amendment?

Correct Answer: B) The rise of speakeasies and organized crime.

Thought Process: The 18th Amendment established Prohibition, banning the sale and manufacture of alcohol. This led to a thriving illegal alcohol industry, with clandestine bars (speakeasies) and the rise of powerful organized crime syndicates that profited from illicit liquor.

35. The term "Great Migration" refers to the movement of:

Correct Answer: C) African Americans from the rural South to Northern cities.

Thought Process: The Great Migration was a mass movement of millions of African Americans out of the rural Southern United States to the urban Northeast, Midwest, and West, driven by factors like escaping Jim Crow laws, seeking economic opportunities, and avoiding racial violence.

36. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Assembly line workers producing Model T automobiles, early 1900s."

The image implied by the caption demonstrates Henry Ford’s impact on:

Correct Answer: B) Mass production and consumer culture.

Thought Process: The assembly line was the cornerstone of Ford's mass production system. This innovation drastically reduced the cost and time of manufacturing, making the Model T affordable for the average American and ushering in an era of mass consumption and a new consumer culture.

37. Which event most directly led to the U.S. acquiring Guam, Puerto Rico, and temporary control over Cuba and the Philippines?

Correct Answer: C) The Spanish-American War

Thought Process: The Treaty of Paris (1898), which officially ended the Spanish-American War, ceded these territories to the United States, marking a significant moment in American expansionism.

38. The concept of "Social Darwinism" was often used to justify:

Correct Answer: C) Business monopolies and inequality.

Thought Process: Social Darwinism applied Darwinian principles of "survival of the fittest" to human society and business. It was used by wealthy industrialists to justify their immense wealth and power, arguing that they had risen to the top due to their inherent superiority, and that government intervention to help the poor or regulate business would interfere with natural societal progress.

39. The 17th Amendment enhanced democratic participation by:

Correct Answer: B) Allowing for the direct election of senators.

Thought Process: Prior to the 17th Amendment (1913), U.S. senators were chosen by state legislatures. The amendment mandated direct election by the people of each state, making the Senate more accountable to the electorate and increasing democratic participation.

40. READ THE QUOTE:

"The world must be made safe for democracy. Its peace must be planted upon the tested foundations of political liberty." - Woodrow Wilson

This quote best explains Wilson’s rationale for:

Correct Answer: C) U.S. entry into World War I

Thought Process: This famous quote is from Wilson's address to Congress asking for a declaration of war against Germany in April 1917. It encapsulates his idealistic view that the U.S. needed to intervene in WWI not for territorial gain or revenge, but to defend democratic principles globally against autocratic threats.

Shaping America: 1877-1920s Semester Exam Answer Key

Section 1: Founding Principles & Historical Context (TEKS 1, 2)

1. READ THE QUOTE:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - The Declaration of Independence

Which of the following principles from the Declaration of Independence is most directly reflected in the passage above?

Correct Answer: C) Individual Rights

Thought Process: The quote explicitly mentions "unalienable Rights," including "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness," which are fundamental individual rights that the Declaration asserts are inherent to all people.

2. The U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights were created to primarily address which concern of the founding fathers?

Correct Answer: C) The fear of an overly powerful central government.

Thought Process: Following the experience with British monarchy and the weak Articles of Confederation, the framers aimed to create a stronger federal government but included the Bill of Rights to explicitly limit its power and prevent tyranny, a primary concern.

3. Explain the meaning and historical significance of the motto "E Pluribus Unum" and how it reflects the early challenges and aspirations of the United States. Provide at least two pieces of historical context.

Expected Answer: "E Pluribus Unum" translates to "Out of Many, One." Its historical significance lies in representing the idea that the United States was formed from a union of many separate states and diverse peoples into a single, unified nation. This motto was particularly relevant during the early challenges of the U.S. when the newly independent states, despite their individual identities and varied interests, needed to come together to form a cohesive federal republic. It also reflected the aspiration to forge a national identity from a population comprised of different European immigrant groups and distinct regional cultures. The adoption of this motto on the Great Seal of the United States in 1782 underscored this foundational desire for unity and collective strength from diverse origins, crucial for the survival and growth of the fledgling nation.

Thought Process: Students should explain the translation and connect it to the challenges of forming a unified nation from diverse states/peoples post-Revolution, demonstrating knowledge of the motto’s historical context and purpose.

4. The Spanish-American War in 1898 is considered a major turning point because it marked:

Correct Answer: C) The emergence of the United States as a global power.

Thought Process: The U.S. victory in the Spanish-American War resulted in the acquisition of overseas territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, signaling a definitive shift from isolationism to an active role on the world stage.

5. Which of the following best describes a defining characteristic of the Gilded Age (1877-1898)?

Correct Answer: C) Significant technological innovation alongside social inequality.

Thought Process: The Gilded Age was characterized by rapid industrial growth and new technologies (e.g., railroads, steel, oil) but also by immense wealth disparity, poor working conditions, and significant social problems hidden beneath a glittering surface.

6. Analyze the impact of political machines on urban areas during the late 19th century. Discuss both the benefits (if any) and drawbacks of their influence on city governance and immigrant communities.

Expected Answer: Political machines, such as Tammany Hall in New York, had both benefits and drawbacks in late 19th-century urban areas. Benefits often included providing essential services to urban residents, especially immigrant communities, who were frequently overlooked by official city governments. Machines offered jobs, housing, food, and assistance with naturalization, helping immigrants adapt to American life. In return, they expected loyalty and votes. Drawbacks were extensive corruption, including graft, bribery, and voter fraud. Machine bosses often enriched themselves at public expense, mismanaged city funds, and undermined democratic processes. While they helped some individuals, they often did so by exploiting public resources and consolidating power unethically.

Thought Process: Students should explain the functions of political machines, identifying both the practical support they offered (benefits) and the systemic corruption and undemocratic practices they fostered (drawbacks).

7. READ THE QUOTE:

"The great corporations are not content with high profits, but by every means in their power seek to prevent the workers from enjoying their full share of the prosperity they create." - Samuel Gompers, founder of the American Federation of Labor

Based on Gompers’ statement, what was a primary economic issue leading to the growth of labor unions in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) Unequal distribution of wealth and worker exploitation.

Thought Process: Gompers’ quote directly points to corporations hoarding profits and denying workers their fair share, which directly translates to issues of unequal wealth distribution and the exploitation of labor, leading workers to organize for better conditions and wages.

8. Alfred Thayer Mahan’s ideas about naval power most directly contributed to which U.S. foreign policy development?

Correct Answer: C) The acquisition of overseas territories for naval bases.

Thought Process: Mahan argued that a powerful navy was essential for national greatness and required coaling stations and naval bases worldwide. This directly influenced the U.S. decision to acquire strategic overseas territories to support its growing navy and global ambitions.

9. The annexation of Hawaii and the acquisition of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War exemplify what broader U.S. foreign policy trend?

Correct Answer: C) Expansionism

Thought Process: Both actions demonstrate the U.S. policy of extending its territory, economic influence, and political control over areas beyond its continental borders, which is the definition of expansionism or imperialism.

10. Examine the reasons for U.S. entry into World War I. Select two specific events or policies and explain how they led to America’s decision to abandon neutrality.

Expected Answer: Two key reasons for U.S. entry into World War I were:

1. Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: Germany resumed its policy of sinking merchant ships without warning in 1917, including American vessels and ships carrying American citizens (like the Lusitania in 1915). This direct threat to American lives and shipping interests, despite U.S. protests, made continued neutrality increasingly untenable and was seen as an act of aggression.
2. Zimmermann Telegram: In January 1917, a secret diplomatic communication from Germany to Mexico was intercepted and decoded by British intelligence. It proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico, promising German support for Mexico to reclaim lost territories in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona if the U.S. entered the war. The revelation of this plot intensified anti-German sentiment and convinced many Americans that Germany posed a direct threat to U.S. security and sovereignty.

Thought Process: Students should identify two distinct causes and explain how each specifically contributed to the U.S. abandonment of neutrality and eventual declaration of war.

11. READ THE DESCRIPTION:

"Soldiers dug elaborate networks of ditches protected by barbed wire, creating a static battleground where advances were measured in yards and casualties were immense."

This description primarily refers to the impact of which technological innovation and warfare strategy in World War I?

Correct Answer: C) Trench warfare and machine guns

Thought Process: The description of "networks of ditches," "barbed wire," "static battleground," and "immense casualties" directly points to the characteristics of trench warfare, which was made particularly deadly and static by the defensive power of machine guns.

Section 4: Progressive Era & The Roaring Twenties (TEKS 5, 6)

12. Which Progressive Era reform allowed citizens to remove an elected official from office before their term expired?

Correct Answer: C) Recall

Thought Process: The recall is a procedure by which voters can remove an elected official from office through a direct vote before their term has ended. This was a key Progressive reform aimed at increasing direct democracy and accountability.

13. Analyze the impact of the 19th Amendment on American society beyond just granting women the right to vote. How did this amendment contribute to broader social or political changes in the early 20th century?

Expected Answer: The 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote in 1920, had impacts far beyond simply expanding suffrage. Politically, it doubled the electorate, forcing politicians to consider women’s issues and constituencies, potentially influencing legislation on social welfare, education, and public health. Socially, it contributed to a broader movement for women’s equality and independence. While not immediately leading to radical changes, it empowered women to become more active in public life and civic organizations, challenging traditional gender roles and contributing to the cultural shifts seen in the "Roaring Twenties," where women increasingly sought economic independence and new social freedoms.

Thought Process: Students should explain not only that the 19th Amendment gave women the vote but also discuss its broader political influence (on elections, policy) and social implications (women’s roles, independence).

14. Upton Sinclair’s novel The Jungle is an example of muckraking primarily because it:

Correct Answer: B) Exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry.

Thought Process: Muckrakers were investigative journalists who aimed to expose corruption and social problems. Sinclair’s The Jungle vividly detailed the horrific and unsanitary conditions in Chicago’s meatpacking plants, directly leading to public outrage and the passage of food safety legislation.

15. The Populist Party, formed in the late 19th century, primarily sought to address the grievances of which group?

Correct Answer: C) Southern sharecroppers and Western farmers

Thought Process: The Populist Party arose from agrarian discontent in the late 19th century, representing the economic and political interests of farmers who felt exploited by banks, railroads, and industrial trusts.

16. The Red Scare following World War I was a period characterized by:

Correct Answer: B) Widespread fear of socialist and anarchist ideologies.

Thought Process: The Red Scare was a period of intense anti-radical and anti-immigrant hysteria, largely driven by fears of communist and anarchist infiltration in the wake of the Russian Revolution and a series of domestic bombings.

17. Describe how Henry Ford’s innovations in automobile manufacturing transformed American society beyond just transportation. Consider economic, social, or cultural impacts.

Expected Answer: Henry Ford’s innovations, particularly the assembly line and mass production of the Model T, transformed American society in numerous ways beyond simply providing transportation. Economically, it led to the growth of related industries like steel, rubber, glass, and oil, creating millions of new jobs and stimulating the economy. It also made cars affordable for the average American, contributing to a new consumer culture. Socially and culturally, the automobile fostered greater personal mobility and independence, changing dating patterns, encouraging suburbanization, and contributing to the decline of rural isolation. It also led to the development of new infrastructure like paved roads and gas stations, fundamentally reshaping American landscapes and lifestyles.

Thought Process: Students should go beyond just stating Ford made cars cheaper and discuss broader economic shifts (related industries, consumerism) and socio-cultural changes (mobility, suburbanization, new lifestyles).

18. The “Flapperâ€

of the 1920s best symbolizes:

Correct Answer: C) Women’s growing independence and changing social norms

Thought Process: The Flapper image, with her bobbed hair, shorter skirts, and more daring behavior, symbolized the new freedoms and challenges to traditional social conventions that many women embraced in the 1920s, representing a shift towards greater female independence.

19. Which amendment granted women the right to vote, significantly expanding democratic participation?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: This is a direct recall question about the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, which guaranteed women’s suffrage.

20. The “Return to Normalcyâ€

slogan after World War I represented a desire for:

Correct Answer: C) A return to pre-war conservative policies.

Thought Process: President Harding’s slogan appealed to Americans weary of progressive reforms and the sacrifices of war, promising a return to a simpler, more conservative time with less government intervention and international entanglement.

21. Which of the following was a major cause of the growth of urbanization in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: B) Increased agricultural output leading to fewer farm jobs.

Thought Process: Technological advancements in agriculture meant fewer laborers were needed on farms, pushing rural populations to seek opportunities in rapidly industrializing cities. This, combined with immigration, fueled urban growth.

22. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, New York, early 20th century."

Based on the image implied, what was a common social issue faced by immigrants arriving in the U.S. during this period?

Correct Answer: C) Nativist sentiment and discrimination.

Thought Process: Ellis Island was the gateway for millions of immigrants, who often faced significant nativist backlash, prejudice, and discrimination from established Americans who viewed them as threats to jobs or American culture.

23. The Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) Supreme Court decision legally established which discriminatory practice?

Correct Answer: C) Separate but equal doctrine

Thought Process: Plessy v. Ferguson upheld the constitutionality of racial segregation under the doctrine of "separate but equal," providing a legal basis for Jim Crow laws and widespread discrimination for decades.

24. Which of the following best describes the goal of civil service reform during the Gilded Age?

Correct Answer: B) To ensure government jobs were awarded based on merit.

Thought Process: Civil service reform, exemplified by the Pendleton Act, aimed to replace the patronage or "spoils system" with a system where government employment was based on competence rather than political connections.

25. Compare and contrast the approaches of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois in addressing racial inequality in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Which approach do you think was more effective for the time period, and why?

Expected Answer:
Booker T. Washington advocated for a strategy of vocational education, economic self-sufficiency, and gradual change. He believed that African Americans should focus on acquiring skills and establishing themselves economically within their communities, arguing that political and social equality would naturally follow. His "Atlanta Compromise" speech (1895) suggested that African Americans should temporarily forgo demands for civil rights in exchange for economic opportunities.

W.E.B. DuBois, on the other hand, argued for immediate and full civil rights and political equality. He believed in educating the "Talented Tenth" of African Americans to become leaders who would challenge segregation and discrimination directly. He co-founded the NAACP in 1909 to fight for civil rights through legal and political means, rejecting Washington's more accommodative stance.

Effectiveness for the time period (example reasoning): While both had valid points, DuBois's approach, particularly through the NAACP, laid crucial groundwork for future civil rights movements by directly challenging segregation legally. Washington's focus on economic uplift was important but arguably did not directly confront the systemic legal and social barriers that prevented true equality. Students could argue either way, but must provide clear reasoning. For example, some might argue Washington's approach was more pragmatic for the deeply segregated South, while others might argue DuBois's direct challenge was essential to prevent permanent subjugation.

Thought Process: Students should accurately describe the core tenets of each leader's philosophy (Washington: economic self-sufficiency, gradualism; DuBois: immediate civil rights, "Talented Tenth"). For the evaluative part, they need to make a claim about effectiveness and justify it with evidence from their described approaches.

26. READ THE QUOTE:

"The Constitution, in all its provisions, looks to an indestructible Union, composed of indestructible States." - Salmon P. Chase, Chief Justice of the United States

This quote emphasizes the founding principle of:

Correct Answer: A) Federalism

Thought Process: Federalism is the division of power between a national government and state governments. Chase's quote highlights the enduring nature of both the Union (national) and the States, directly reflecting the principle of federalism where power is shared but both levels of government are considered essential and permanent.

27. Which of the following contributed most to the rise of big business and monopolies in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) New technologies and laissez-faire policies.

Thought Process: Innovations in production and transportation (new technologies) allowed businesses to grow larger and more efficient. Concurrently, a prevailing philosophy of laissez-faire (minimal government regulation) allowed these large corporations to operate with little oversight, consolidate power, and form monopolies.

28. The Battle of Argonne Forest was a significant event during World War I because it:

Correct Answer: B) Was a major American offensive that helped end the war.

Thought Process: The Meuse-Argonne Offensive, culminating in the Battle of Argonne Forest, was a large-scale American-led operation in the final months of WWI. It pushed back German forces and played a crucial role in breaking the Hindenburg Line, significantly contributing to the Allied victory and the armistice.

29. Woodrow Wilson’s Fourteen Points primarily aimed to:

Correct Answer: B) Establish a lasting peace and prevent future wars.

Thought Process: Wilson's Fourteen Points were a comprehensive proposal for a post-WWI peace settlement, focusing on principles like self-determination, open diplomacy, freedom of the seas, and the creation of a League of Nations, all designed to address the root causes of war and prevent future conflicts.

30. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Women picketing for suffrage, early 20th century."

The scene implied by the caption is most closely associated with the passage of which amendment?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: "Suffrage" refers to the right to vote. Women picketing for suffrage directly relates to the movement that led to the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.

31. The Scopes Trial (1925) highlighted a cultural conflict between:

Correct Answer: B) Science and religious fundamentalism.

Thought Process: The Scopes Trial, also known as the "Monkey Trial," concerned a teacher accused of violating a Tennessee law that prohibited the teaching of evolution. It became a nationally publicized debate between modern scientific theories (evolution) and traditional religious beliefs (Biblical creationism), representing a clash between urban and rural values as well.

32. Marcus Garvey’s "Back to Africa" movement emphasized:

Correct Answer: C) Black nationalism and self-sufficiency.

Thought Process: Marcus Garvey advocated for racial pride, economic independence, and the establishment of independent Black nations. His "Back to Africa" movement encouraged African Americans to return to Africa to build their own societies, promoting self-reliance and unity among Black people.

33. C-E-R Response: Did the Progressive Era reforms fundamentally change American society, or were their impacts limited? Make a claim, support it with at least two pieces of evidence (specific reforms, muckrakers, or leaders), and explain your reasoning.

Expected Answer:
Claim: (Student makes a clear claim: e.g., "Progressive Era reforms fundamentally changed American society" OR "The impacts of Progressive Era reforms were limited.")

Evidence (must include at least two specific examples):

• Reforms: 16th Amendment (income tax), 17th Amendment (direct election of senators), 19th Amendment (women's suffrage), Initiative, Referendum, Recall (increased direct democracy), Pure Food and Drug Act, Meat Inspection Act (consumer protection).
• Muckrakers: Upton Sinclair (The Jungle), Ida Tarbell (The History of the Standard Oil Company), Jacob Riis (How the Other Half Lives).
• Leaders: Theodore Roosevelt (trust-busting, conservation), Woodrow Wilson (Federal Reserve, Clayton Antitrust Act), Jane Addams (settlement houses), Susan B. Anthony (suffrage), W.E.B. DuBois (civil rights).

Reasoning: Student explains how their chosen evidence supports their claim. For example:

• If claiming fundamental change: "The 19th Amendment fundamentally changed society by doubling the electorate and empowering women politically, leading to shifts in social roles and greater advocacy for women's issues. Additionally, muckrakers like Upton Sinclair, through The Jungle, exposed shocking conditions in industries, which led to significant government intervention with the Pure Food and Drug Act, proving that public outcry fueled by investigative journalism could prompt major regulatory changes that protected public health and challenged corporate power. These systemic changes in political participation, consumer protection, and government oversight represent fundamental shifts rather than limited impacts."
• If claiming limited impact: "Despite numerous reforms, the impact of the Progressive Era was limited because many fundamental inequalities, especially racial segregation and discrimination (as evidenced by the continued Jim Crow laws and the Plessy v. Ferguson decision), remained largely unaddressed by the federal government. While Booker T. Washington advocated for economic self-sufficiency, widespread systemic barriers persisted. Furthermore, some reforms, like Prohibition (18th Amendment), led to unintended negative consequences like organized crime, demonstrating the limits of government's ability to legislate morality and indicating that not all 'progress' had a truly positive societal impact."

Thought Process: This question requires students to analyze the Progressive Era, form a stance, and support it with specific historical evidence, explaining the connection between the evidence and their claim. They need to demonstrate a higher order of thinking (DOK 3).

34. Which of the following was a social issue of the 1920s directly related to the 18th Amendment?

Correct Answer: B) The rise of speakeasies and organized crime.

Thought Process: The 18th Amendment established Prohibition, banning the sale and manufacture of alcohol. This led to a thriving illegal alcohol industry, with clandestine bars (speakeasies) and the rise of powerful organized crime syndicates that profited from illicit liquor.

35. The term "Great Migration" refers to the movement of:

Correct Answer: C) African Americans from the rural South to Northern cities.

Thought Process: The Great Migration was a mass movement of millions of African Americans out of the rural Southern United States to the urban Northeast, Midwest, and West, driven by factors like escaping Jim Crow laws, seeking economic opportunities, and avoiding racial violence.

36. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Assembly line workers producing Model T automobiles, early 1900s."

The image implied by the caption demonstrates Henry Ford’s impact on:

Correct Answer: B) Mass production and consumer culture.

Thought Process: The assembly line was the cornerstone of Ford's mass production system. This innovation drastically reduced the cost and time of manufacturing, making the Model T affordable for the average American and ushering in an era of mass consumption and a new consumer culture.

37. Which event most directly led to the U.S. acquiring Guam, Puerto Rico, and temporary control over Cuba and the Philippines?

Correct Answer: C) The Spanish-American War

Thought Process: The Treaty of Paris (1898), which officially ended the Spanish-American War, ceded these territories to the United States, marking a significant moment in American expansionism.

38. The concept of "Social Darwinism" was often used to justify:

Correct Answer: C) Business monopolies and inequality.

Thought Process: Social Darwinism applied Darwinian principles of "survival of the fittest" to human society and business. It was used by wealthy industrialists to justify their immense wealth and power, arguing that they had risen to the top due to their inherent superiority, and that government intervention to help the poor or regulate business would interfere with natural societal progress.

39. The 17th Amendment enhanced democratic participation by:

Correct Answer: B) Allowing for the direct election of senators.

Thought Process: Prior to the 17th Amendment (1913), U.S. senators were chosen by state legislatures. The amendment mandated direct election by the people of each state, making the Senate more accountable to the electorate and increasing democratic participation.

40. READ THE QUOTE:

"The world must be made safe for democracy. Its peace must be planted upon the tested foundations of political liberty." - Woodrow Wilson

This quote best explains Wilson’s rationale for:

Correct Answer: C) U.S. entry into World War I

Thought Process: This famous quote is from Wilson's address to Congress asking for a declaration of war against Germany in April 1917. It encapsulates his idealistic view that the U.S. needed to intervene in WWI not for territorial gain or revenge, but to defend democratic principles globally against autocratic threats.

Shaping America: 1877-1920s Semester Exam Answer Key

Section 1: Founding Principles & Historical Context (TEKS 1, 2)

1. READ THE QUOTE:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - The Declaration of Independence

Which of the following principles from the Declaration of Independence is most directly reflected in the passage above?

Correct Answer: C) Individual Rights

Thought Process: The quote explicitly mentions "unalienable Rights," including "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness," which are fundamental individual rights that the Declaration asserts are inherent to all people.

2. The U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights were created to primarily address which concern of the founding fathers?

Correct Answer: C) The fear of an overly powerful central government.

Thought Process: Following the experience with British monarchy and the weak Articles of Confederation, the framers aimed to create a stronger federal government but included the Bill of Rights to explicitly limit its power and prevent tyranny, a primary concern.

3. Explain the meaning and historical significance of the motto "E Pluribus Unum" and how it reflects the early challenges and aspirations of the United States. Provide at least two pieces of historical context.

Expected Answer: "E Pluribus Unum" translates to "Out of Many, One." Its historical significance lies in representing the idea that the United States was formed from a union of many separate states and diverse peoples into a single, unified nation. This motto was particularly relevant during the early challenges of the U.S. when the newly independent states, despite their individual identities and varied interests, needed to come together to form a cohesive federal republic. It also reflected the aspiration to forge a national identity from a population comprised of different European immigrant groups and distinct regional cultures. The adoption of this motto on the Great Seal of the United States in 1782 underscored this foundational desire for unity and collective strength from diverse origins, crucial for the survival and growth of the fledgling nation.

Thought Process: Students should explain the translation and connect it to the challenges of forming a unified nation from diverse states/peoples post-Revolution, demonstrating knowledge of the motto’s historical context and purpose.

4. The Spanish-American War in 1898 is considered a major turning point because it marked:

Correct Answer: C) The emergence of the United States as a global power.

Thought Process: The U.S. victory in the Spanish-American War resulted in the acquisition of overseas territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, signaling a definitive shift from isolationism to an active role on the world stage.

5. Which of the following best describes a defining characteristic of the Gilded Age (1877-1898)?

Correct Answer: C) Significant technological innovation alongside social inequality.

Thought Process: The Gilded Age was characterized by rapid industrial growth and new technologies (e.g., railroads, steel, oil) but also by immense wealth disparity, poor working conditions, and significant social problems hidden beneath a glittering surface.

6. Analyze the impact of political machines on urban areas during the late 19th century. Discuss both the benefits (if any) and drawbacks of their influence on city governance and immigrant communities.

Expected Answer: Political machines, such as Tammany Hall in New York, had both benefits and drawbacks in late 19th-century urban areas. Benefits often included providing essential services to urban residents, especially immigrant communities, who were frequently overlooked by official city governments. Machines offered jobs, housing, food, and assistance with naturalization, helping immigrants adapt to American life. In return, they expected loyalty and votes. Drawbacks were extensive corruption, including graft, bribery, and voter fraud. Machine bosses often enriched themselves at public expense, mismanaged city funds, and undermined democratic processes. While they helped some individuals, they often did so by exploiting public resources and consolidating power unethically.

Thought Process: Students should explain the functions of political machines, identifying both the practical support they offered (benefits) and the systemic corruption and undemocratic practices they fostered (drawbacks).

7. READ THE QUOTE:

"The great corporations are not content with high profits, but by every means in their power seek to prevent the workers from enjoying their full share of the prosperity they create." - Samuel Gompers, founder of the American Federation of Labor

Based on Gompers’ statement, what was a primary economic issue leading to the growth of labor unions in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) Unequal distribution of wealth and worker exploitation.

Thought Process: Gompers’ quote directly points to corporations hoarding profits and denying workers their fair share, which directly translates to issues of unequal wealth distribution and the exploitation of labor, leading workers to organize for better conditions and wages.

8. Alfred Thayer Mahan’s ideas about naval power most directly contributed to which U.S. foreign policy development?

Correct Answer: C) The acquisition of overseas territories for naval bases.

Thought Process: Mahan argued that a powerful navy was essential for national greatness and required coaling stations and naval bases worldwide. This directly influenced the U.S. decision to acquire strategic overseas territories to support its growing navy and global ambitions.

9. The annexation of Hawaii and the acquisition of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War exemplify what broader U.S. foreign policy trend?

Correct Answer: C) Expansionism

Thought Process: Both actions demonstrate the U.S. policy of extending its territory, economic influence, and political control over areas beyond its continental borders, which is the definition of expansionism or imperialism.

10. Examine the reasons for U.S. entry into World War I. Select two specific events or policies and explain how they led to America’s decision to abandon neutrality.

Expected Answer: Two key reasons for U.S. entry into World War I were:

1. Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: Germany resumed its policy of sinking merchant ships without warning in 1917, including American vessels and ships carrying American citizens (like the Lusitania in 1915). This direct threat to American lives and shipping interests, despite U.S. protests, made continued neutrality increasingly untenable and was seen as an act of aggression.
2. Zimmermann Telegram: In January 1917, a secret diplomatic communication from Germany to Mexico was intercepted and decoded by British intelligence. It proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico, promising German support for Mexico to reclaim lost territories in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona if the U.S. entered the war. The revelation of this plot intensified anti-German sentiment and convinced many Americans that Germany posed a direct threat to U.S. security and sovereignty.

Thought Process: Students should identify two distinct causes and explain how each specifically contributed to the U.S. abandonment of neutrality and eventual declaration of war.

11. READ THE DESCRIPTION:

"Soldiers dug elaborate networks of ditches protected by barbed wire, creating a static battleground where advances were measured in yards and casualties were immense."

This description primarily refers to the impact of which technological innovation and warfare strategy in World War I?

Correct Answer: C) Trench warfare and machine guns

Thought Process: The description of "networks of ditches," "barbed wire," "static battleground," and "immense casualties" directly points to the characteristics of trench warfare, which was made particularly deadly and static by the defensive power of machine guns.

Section 4: Progressive Era & The Roaring Twenties (TEKS 5, 6)

12. Which Progressive Era reform allowed citizens to remove an elected official from office before their term expired?

Correct Answer: C) Recall

Thought Process: The recall is a procedure by which voters can remove an elected official from office through a direct vote before their term has ended. This was a key Progressive reform aimed at increasing direct democracy and accountability.

13. Analyze the impact of the 19th Amendment on American society beyond just granting women the right to vote. How did this amendment contribute to broader social or political changes in the early 20th century?

Expected Answer: The 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote in 1920, had impacts far beyond simply expanding suffrage. Politically, it doubled the electorate, forcing politicians to consider women’s issues and constituencies, potentially influencing legislation on social welfare, education, and public health. Socially, it contributed to a broader movement for women’s equality and independence. While not immediately leading to radical changes, it empowered women to become more active in public life and civic organizations, challenging traditional gender roles and contributing to the cultural shifts seen in the "Roaring Twenties," where women increasingly sought economic independence and new social freedoms.

Thought Process: Students should explain not only that the 19th Amendment gave women the vote but also discuss its broader political influence (on elections, policy) and social implications (women’s roles, independence).

14. Upton Sinclair’s novel The Jungle is an example of muckraking primarily because it:

Correct Answer: B) Exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry.

Thought Process: Muckrakers were investigative journalists who aimed to expose corruption and social problems. Sinclair’s The Jungle vividly detailed the horrific and unsanitary conditions in Chicago’s meatpacking plants, directly leading to public outrage and the passage of food safety legislation.

15. The Populist Party, formed in the late 19th century, primarily sought to address the grievances of which group?

Correct Answer: C) Southern sharecroppers and Western farmers

Thought Process: The Populist Party arose from agrarian discontent in the late 19th century, representing the economic and political interests of farmers who felt exploited by banks, railroads, and industrial trusts.

16. The Red Scare following World War I was a period characterized by:

Correct Answer: B) Widespread fear of socialist and anarchist ideologies.

Thought Process: The Red Scare was a period of intense anti-radical and anti-immigrant hysteria, largely driven by fears of communist and anarchist infiltration in the wake of the Russian Revolution and a series of domestic bombings.

17. Describe how Henry Ford’s innovations in automobile manufacturing transformed American society beyond just transportation. Consider economic, social, or cultural impacts.

Expected Answer: Henry Ford’s innovations, particularly the assembly line and mass production of the Model T, transformed American society in numerous ways beyond simply providing transportation. Economically, it led to the growth of related industries like steel, rubber, glass, and oil, creating millions of new jobs and stimulating the economy. It also made cars affordable for the average American, contributing to a new consumer culture. Socially and culturally, the automobile fostered greater personal mobility and independence, changing dating patterns, encouraging suburbanization, and contributing to the decline of rural isolation. It also led to the development of new infrastructure like paved roads and gas stations, fundamentally reshaping American landscapes and lifestyles.

Thought Process: Students should go beyond just stating Ford made cars cheaper and discuss broader economic shifts (related industries, consumerism) and socio-cultural changes (mobility, suburbanization, new lifestyles).

18. The “Flapperâ€

of the 1920s best symbolizes:

Correct Answer: C) Women’s growing independence and changing social norms

Thought Process: The Flapper image, with her bobbed hair, shorter skirts, and more daring behavior, symbolized the new freedoms and challenges to traditional social conventions that many women embraced in the 1920s, representing a shift towards greater female independence.

19. Which amendment granted women the right to vote, significantly expanding democratic participation?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: This is a direct recall question about the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, which guaranteed women’s suffrage.

20. The “Return to Normalcyâ€

slogan after World War I represented a desire for:

Correct Answer: C) A return to pre-war conservative policies.

Thought Process: President Harding’s slogan appealed to Americans weary of progressive reforms and the sacrifices of war, promising a return to a simpler, more conservative time with less government intervention and international entanglement.

21. Which of the following was a major cause of the growth of urbanization in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: B) Increased agricultural output leading to fewer farm jobs.

Thought Process: Technological advancements in agriculture meant fewer laborers were needed on farms, pushing rural populations to seek opportunities in rapidly industrializing cities. This, combined with immigration, fueled urban growth.

22. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, New York, early 20th century."

Based on the image implied, what was a common social issue faced by immigrants arriving in the U.S. during this period?

Correct Answer: C) Nativist sentiment and discrimination.

Thought Process: Ellis Island was the gateway for millions of immigrants, who often faced significant nativist backlash, prejudice, and discrimination from established Americans who viewed them as threats to jobs or American culture.

23. The Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) Supreme Court decision legally established which discriminatory practice?

Correct Answer: C) Separate but equal doctrine

Thought Process: Plessy v. Ferguson upheld the constitutionality of racial segregation under the doctrine of "separate but equal," providing a legal basis for Jim Crow laws and widespread discrimination for decades.

24. Which of the following best describes the goal of civil service reform during the Gilded Age?

Correct Answer: B) To ensure government jobs were awarded based on merit.

Thought Process: Civil service reform, exemplified by the Pendleton Act, aimed to replace the patronage or "spoils system" with a system where government employment was based on competence rather than political connections.

25. Compare and contrast the approaches of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois in addressing racial inequality in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Which approach do you think was more effective for the time period, and why?

Expected Answer:
Booker T. Washington advocated for a strategy of vocational education, economic self-sufficiency, and gradual change. He believed that African Americans should focus on acquiring skills and establishing themselves economically within their communities, arguing that political and social equality would naturally follow. His "Atlanta Compromise" speech (1895) suggested that African Americans should temporarily forgo demands for civil rights in exchange for economic opportunities.

W.E.B. DuBois, on the other hand, argued for immediate and full civil rights and political equality. He believed in educating the "Talented Tenth" of African Americans to become leaders who would challenge segregation and discrimination directly. He co-founded the NAACP in 1909 to fight for civil rights through legal and political means, rejecting Washington's more accommodative stance.

Effectiveness for the time period (example reasoning): While both had valid points, DuBois's approach, particularly through the NAACP, laid crucial groundwork for future civil rights movements by directly challenging segregation legally. Washington's focus on economic uplift was important but arguably did not directly confront the systemic legal and social barriers that prevented true equality. Students could argue either way, but must provide clear reasoning. For example, some might argue Washington's approach was more pragmatic for the deeply segregated South, while others might argue DuBois's direct challenge was essential to prevent permanent subjugation.

Thought Process: Students should accurately describe the core tenets of each leader's philosophy (Washington: economic self-sufficiency, gradualism; DuBois: immediate civil rights, "Talented Tenth"). For the evaluative part, they need to make a claim about effectiveness and justify it with evidence from their described approaches.

26. READ THE QUOTE:

"The Constitution, in all its provisions, looks to an indestructible Union, composed of indestructible States." - Salmon P. Chase, Chief Justice of the United States

This quote emphasizes the founding principle of:

Correct Answer: A) Federalism

Thought Process: Federalism is the division of power between a national government and state governments. Chase's quote highlights the enduring nature of both the Union (national) and the States, directly reflecting the principle of federalism where power is shared but both levels of government are considered essential and permanent.

27. Which of the following contributed most to the rise of big business and monopolies in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) New technologies and laissez-faire policies.

Thought Process: Innovations in production and transportation (new technologies) allowed businesses to grow larger and more efficient. Concurrently, a prevailing philosophy of laissez-faire (minimal government regulation) allowed these large corporations to operate with little oversight, consolidate power, and form monopolies.

28. The Battle of Argonne Forest was a significant event during World War I because it:

Correct Answer: B) Was a major American offensive that helped end the war.

Thought Process: The Meuse-Argonne Offensive, culminating in the Battle of Argonne Forest, was a large-scale American-led operation in the final months of WWI. It pushed back German forces and played a crucial role in breaking the Hindenburg Line, significantly contributing to the Allied victory and the armistice.

29. Woodrow Wilson’s Fourteen Points primarily aimed to:

Correct Answer: B) Establish a lasting peace and prevent future wars.

Thought Process: Wilson's Fourteen Points were a comprehensive proposal for a post-WWI peace settlement, focusing on principles like self-determination, open diplomacy, freedom of the seas, and the creation of a League of Nations, all designed to address the root causes of war and prevent future conflicts.

30. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Women picketing for suffrage, early 20th century."

The scene implied by the caption is most closely associated with the passage of which amendment?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: "Suffrage" refers to the right to vote. Women picketing for suffrage directly relates to the movement that led to the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.

31. The Scopes Trial (1925) highlighted a cultural conflict between:

Correct Answer: B) Science and religious fundamentalism.

Thought Process: The Scopes Trial, also known as the "Monkey Trial," concerned a teacher accused of violating a Tennessee law that prohibited the teaching of evolution. It became a nationally publicized debate between modern scientific theories (evolution) and traditional religious beliefs (Biblical creationism), representing a clash between urban and rural values as well.

32. Marcus Garvey’s "Back to Africa" movement emphasized:

Correct Answer: C) Black nationalism and self-sufficiency.

Thought Process: Marcus Garvey advocated for racial pride, economic independence, and the establishment of independent Black nations. His "Back to Africa" movement encouraged African Americans to return to Africa to build their own societies, promoting self-reliance and unity among Black people.

33. C-E-R Response: Did the Progressive Era reforms fundamentally change American society, or were their impacts limited? Make a claim, support it with at least two pieces of evidence (specific reforms, muckrakers, or leaders), and explain your reasoning.

Expected Answer:
Claim: (Student makes a clear claim: e.g., "Progressive Era reforms fundamentally changed American society" OR "The impacts of Progressive Era reforms were limited.")

Evidence (must include at least two specific examples):

• Reforms: 16th Amendment (income tax), 17th Amendment (direct election of senators), 19th Amendment (women's suffrage), Initiative, Referendum, Recall (increased direct democracy), Pure Food and Drug Act, Meat Inspection Act (consumer protection).
• Muckrakers: Upton Sinclair (The Jungle), Ida Tarbell (The History of the Standard Oil Company), Jacob Riis (How the Other Half Lives).
• Leaders: Theodore Roosevelt (trust-busting, conservation), Woodrow Wilson (Federal Reserve, Clayton Antitrust Act), Jane Addams (settlement houses), Susan B. Anthony (suffrage), W.E.B. DuBois (civil rights).

Reasoning: Student explains how their chosen evidence supports their claim. For example:

• If claiming fundamental change: "The 19th Amendment fundamentally changed society by doubling the electorate and empowering women politically, leading to shifts in social roles and greater advocacy for women's issues. Additionally, muckrakers like Upton Sinclair, through The Jungle, exposed shocking conditions in industries, which led to significant government intervention with the Pure Food and Drug Act, proving that public outcry fueled by investigative journalism could prompt major regulatory changes that protected public health and challenged corporate power. These systemic changes in political participation, consumer protection, and government oversight represent fundamental shifts rather than limited impacts."
• If claiming limited impact: "Despite numerous reforms, the impact of the Progressive Era was limited because many fundamental inequalities, especially racial segregation and discrimination (as evidenced by the continued Jim Crow laws and the Plessy v. Ferguson decision), remained largely unaddressed by the federal government. While Booker T. Washington advocated for economic self-sufficiency, widespread systemic barriers persisted. Furthermore, some reforms, like Prohibition (18th Amendment), led to unintended negative consequences like organized crime, demonstrating the limits of government's ability to legislate morality and indicating that not all 'progress' had a truly positive societal impact."

Thought Process: This question requires students to analyze the Progressive Era, form a stance, and support it with specific historical evidence, explaining the connection between the evidence and their claim. They need to demonstrate a higher order of thinking (DOK 3).

34. Which of the following was a social issue of the 1920s directly related to the 18th Amendment?

Correct Answer: B) The rise of speakeasies and organized crime.

Thought Process: The 18th Amendment established Prohibition, banning the sale and manufacture of alcohol. This led to a thriving illegal alcohol industry, with clandestine bars (speakeasies) and the rise of powerful organized crime syndicates that profited from illicit liquor.

35. The term "Great Migration" refers to the movement of:

Correct Answer: C) African Americans from the rural South to Northern cities.

Thought Process: The Great Migration was a mass movement of millions of African Americans out of the rural Southern United States to the urban Northeast, Midwest, and West, driven by factors like escaping Jim Crow laws, seeking economic opportunities, and avoiding racial violence.

36. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Assembly line workers producing Model T automobiles, early 1900s."

The image implied by the caption demonstrates Henry Ford’s impact on:

Correct Answer: B) Mass production and consumer culture.

Thought Process: The assembly line was the cornerstone of Ford's mass production system. This innovation drastically reduced the cost and time of manufacturing, making the Model T affordable for the average American and ushering in an era of mass consumption and a new consumer culture.

37. Which event most directly led to the U.S. acquiring Guam, Puerto Rico, and temporary control over Cuba and the Philippines?

Correct Answer: C) The Spanish-American War

Thought Process: The Treaty of Paris (1898), which officially ended the Spanish-American War, ceded these territories to the United States, marking a significant moment in American expansionism.

38. The concept of "Social Darwinism" was often used to justify:

Correct Answer: C) Business monopolies and inequality.

Thought Process: Social Darwinism applied Darwinian principles of "survival of the fittest" to human society and business. It was used by wealthy industrialists to justify their immense wealth and power, arguing that they had risen to the top due to their inherent superiority, and that government intervention to help the poor or regulate business would interfere with natural societal progress.

39. The 17th Amendment enhanced democratic participation by:

Correct Answer: B) Allowing for the direct election of senators.

Thought Process: Prior to the 17th Amendment (1913), U.S. senators were chosen by state legislatures. The amendment mandated direct election by the people of each state, making the Senate more accountable to the electorate and increasing democratic participation.

40. READ THE QUOTE:

"The world must be made safe for democracy. Its peace must be planted upon the tested foundations of political liberty." - Woodrow Wilson

This quote best explains Wilson’s rationale for:

Correct Answer: C) U.S. entry into World War I

Thought Process: This famous quote is from Wilson's address to Congress asking for a declaration of war against Germany in April 1917. It encapsulates his idealistic view that the U.S. needed to intervene in WWI not for territorial gain or revenge, but to defend democratic principles globally against autocratic threats.

Shaping America: 1877-1920s Semester Exam Answer Key

Section 1: Founding Principles & Historical Context (TEKS 1, 2)

1. READ THE QUOTE:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - The Declaration of Independence

Which of the following principles from the Declaration of Independence is most directly reflected in the passage above?

Correct Answer: C) Individual Rights

Thought Process: The quote explicitly mentions "unalienable Rights," including "Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness," which are fundamental individual rights that the Declaration asserts are inherent to all people.

2. The U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights were created to primarily address which concern of the founding fathers?

Correct Answer: C) The fear of an overly powerful central government.

Thought Process: Following the experience with British monarchy and the weak Articles of Confederation, the framers aimed to create a stronger federal government but included the Bill of Rights to explicitly limit its power and prevent tyranny, a primary concern.

3. Explain the meaning and historical significance of the motto "E Pluribus Unum" and how it reflects the early challenges and aspirations of the United States. Provide at least two pieces of historical context.

Expected Answer: "E Pluribus Unum" translates to "Out of Many, One." Its historical significance lies in representing the idea that the United States was formed from a union of many separate states and diverse peoples into a single, unified nation. This motto was particularly relevant during the early challenges of the U.S. when the newly independent states, despite their individual identities and varied interests, needed to come together to form a cohesive federal republic. It also reflected the aspiration to forge a national identity from a population comprised of different European immigrant groups and distinct regional cultures. The adoption of this motto on the Great Seal of the United States in 1782 underscored this foundational desire for unity and collective strength from diverse origins, crucial for the survival and growth of the fledgling nation.

Thought Process: Students should explain the translation and connect it to the challenges of forming a unified nation from diverse states/peoples post-Revolution, demonstrating knowledge of the motto’s historical context and purpose.

4. The Spanish-American War in 1898 is considered a major turning point because it marked:

Correct Answer: C) The emergence of the United States as a global power.

Thought Process: The U.S. victory in the Spanish-American War resulted in the acquisition of overseas territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, signaling a definitive shift from isolationism to an active role on the world stage.

5. Which of the following best describes a defining characteristic of the Gilded Age (1877-1898)?

Correct Answer: C) Significant technological innovation alongside social inequality.

Thought Process: The Gilded Age was characterized by rapid industrial growth and new technologies (e.g., railroads, steel, oil) but also by immense wealth disparity, poor working conditions, and significant social problems hidden beneath a glittering surface.

6. Analyze the impact of political machines on urban areas during the late 19th century. Discuss both the benefits (if any) and drawbacks of their influence on city governance and immigrant communities.

Expected Answer: Political machines, such as Tammany Hall in New York, had both benefits and drawbacks in late 19th-century urban areas. Benefits often included providing essential services to urban residents, especially immigrant communities, who were frequently overlooked by official city governments. Machines offered jobs, housing, food, and assistance with naturalization, helping immigrants adapt to American life. In return, they expected loyalty and votes. Drawbacks were extensive corruption, including graft, bribery, and voter fraud. Machine bosses often enriched themselves at public expense, mismanaged city funds, and undermined democratic processes. While they helped some individuals, they often did so by exploiting public resources and consolidating power unethically.

Thought Process: Students should explain the functions of political machines, identifying both the practical support they offered (benefits) and the systemic corruption and undemocratic practices they fostered (drawbacks).

7. READ THE QUOTE:

"The great corporations are not content with high profits, but by every means in their power seek to prevent the workers from enjoying their full share of the prosperity they create." - Samuel Gompers, founder of the American Federation of Labor

Based on Gompers’ statement, what was a primary economic issue leading to the growth of labor unions in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) Unequal distribution of wealth and worker exploitation.

Thought Process: Gompers’ quote directly points to corporations hoarding profits and denying workers their fair share, which directly translates to issues of unequal wealth distribution and the exploitation of labor, leading workers to organize for better conditions and wages.

8. Alfred Thayer Mahan’s ideas about naval power most directly contributed to which U.S. foreign policy development?

Correct Answer: C) The acquisition of overseas territories for naval bases.

Thought Process: Mahan argued that a powerful navy was essential for national greatness and required coaling stations and naval bases worldwide. This directly influenced the U.S. decision to acquire strategic overseas territories to support its growing navy and global ambitions.

9. The annexation of Hawaii and the acquisition of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War exemplify what broader U.S. foreign policy trend?

Correct Answer: C) Expansionism

Thought Process: Both actions demonstrate the U.S. policy of extending its territory, economic influence, and political control over areas beyond its continental borders, which is the definition of expansionism or imperialism.

10. Examine the reasons for U.S. entry into World War I. Select two specific events or policies and explain how they led to America’s decision to abandon neutrality.

Expected Answer: Two key reasons for U.S. entry into World War I were:

1. Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: Germany resumed its policy of sinking merchant ships without warning in 1917, including American vessels and ships carrying American citizens (like the Lusitania in 1915). This direct threat to American lives and shipping interests, despite U.S. protests, made continued neutrality increasingly untenable and was seen as an act of aggression.
2. Zimmermann Telegram: In January 1917, a secret diplomatic communication from Germany to Mexico was intercepted and decoded by British intelligence. It proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico, promising German support for Mexico to reclaim lost territories in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona if the U.S. entered the war. The revelation of this plot intensified anti-German sentiment and convinced many Americans that Germany posed a direct threat to U.S. security and sovereignty.

Thought Process: Students should identify two distinct causes and explain how each specifically contributed to the U.S. abandonment of neutrality and eventual declaration of war.

11. READ THE DESCRIPTION:

"Soldiers dug elaborate networks of ditches protected by barbed wire, creating a static battleground where advances were measured in yards and casualties were immense."

This description primarily refers to the impact of which technological innovation and warfare strategy in World War I?

Correct Answer: C) Trench warfare and machine guns

Thought Process: The description of "networks of ditches," "barbed wire," "static battleground," and "immense casualties" directly points to the characteristics of trench warfare, which was made particularly deadly and static by the defensive power of machine guns.

Section 4: Progressive Era & The Roaring Twenties (TEKS 5, 6)

12. Which Progressive Era reform allowed citizens to remove an elected official from office before their term expired?

Correct Answer: C) Recall

Thought Process: The recall is a procedure by which voters can remove an elected official from office through a direct vote before their term has ended. This was a key Progressive reform aimed at increasing direct democracy and accountability.

13. Analyze the impact of the 19th Amendment on American society beyond just granting women the right to vote. How did this amendment contribute to broader social or political changes in the early 20th century?

Expected Answer: The 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote in 1920, had impacts far beyond simply expanding suffrage. Politically, it doubled the electorate, forcing politicians to consider women’s issues and constituencies, potentially influencing legislation on social welfare, education, and public health. Socially, it contributed to a broader movement for women’s equality and independence. While not immediately leading to radical changes, it empowered women to become more active in public life and civic organizations, challenging traditional gender roles and contributing to the cultural shifts seen in the "Roaring Twenties," where women increasingly sought economic independence and new social freedoms.

Thought Process: Students should explain not only that the 19th Amendment gave women the vote but also discuss its broader political influence (on elections, policy) and social implications (women’s roles, independence).

14. Upton Sinclair’s novel The Jungle is an example of muckraking primarily because it:

Correct Answer: B) Exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry.

Thought Process: Muckrakers were investigative journalists who aimed to expose corruption and social problems. Sinclair’s The Jungle vividly detailed the horrific and unsanitary conditions in Chicago’s meatpacking plants, directly leading to public outrage and the passage of food safety legislation.

15. The Populist Party, formed in the late 19th century, primarily sought to address the grievances of which group?

Correct Answer: C) Southern sharecroppers and Western farmers

Thought Process: The Populist Party arose from agrarian discontent in the late 19th century, representing the economic and political interests of farmers who felt exploited by banks, railroads, and industrial trusts.

16. The Red Scare following World War I was a period characterized by:

Correct Answer: B) Widespread fear of socialist and anarchist ideologies.

Thought Process: The Red Scare was a period of intense anti-radical and anti-immigrant hysteria, largely driven by fears of communist and anarchist infiltration in the wake of the Russian Revolution and a series of domestic bombings.

17. Describe how Henry Ford’s innovations in automobile manufacturing transformed American society beyond just transportation. Consider economic, social, or cultural impacts.

Expected Answer: Henry Ford’s innovations, particularly the assembly line and mass production of the Model T, transformed American society in numerous ways beyond simply providing transportation. Economically, it led to the growth of related industries like steel, rubber, glass, and oil, creating millions of new jobs and stimulating the economy. It also made cars affordable for the average American, contributing to a new consumer culture. Socially and culturally, the automobile fostered greater personal mobility and independence, changing dating patterns, encouraging suburbanization, and contributing to the decline of rural isolation. It also led to the development of new infrastructure like paved roads and gas stations, fundamentally reshaping American landscapes and lifestyles.

Thought Process: Students should go beyond just stating Ford made cars cheaper and discuss broader economic shifts (related industries, consumerism) and socio-cultural changes (mobility, suburbanization, new lifestyles).

18. The “Flapperâ€

of the 1920s best symbolizes:

Correct Answer: C) Women’s growing independence and changing social norms

Thought Process: The Flapper image, with her bobbed hair, shorter skirts, and more daring behavior, symbolized the new freedoms and challenges to traditional social conventions that many women embraced in the 1920s, representing a shift towards greater female independence.

19. Which amendment granted women the right to vote, significantly expanding democratic participation?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: This is a direct recall question about the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, which guaranteed women’s suffrage.

20. The “Return to Normalcyâ€

slogan after World War I represented a desire for:

Correct Answer: C) A return to pre-war conservative policies.

Thought Process: President Harding’s slogan appealed to Americans weary of progressive reforms and the sacrifices of war, promising a return to a simpler, more conservative time with less government intervention and international entanglement.

21. Which of the following was a major cause of the growth of urbanization in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: B) Increased agricultural output leading to fewer farm jobs.

Thought Process: Technological advancements in agriculture meant fewer laborers were needed on farms, pushing rural populations to seek opportunities in rapidly industrializing cities. This, combined with immigration, fueled urban growth.

22. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, New York, early 20th century."

Based on the image implied, what was a common social issue faced by immigrants arriving in the U.S. during this period?

Correct Answer: C) Nativist sentiment and discrimination.

Thought Process: Ellis Island was the gateway for millions of immigrants, who often faced significant nativist backlash, prejudice, and discrimination from established Americans who viewed them as threats to jobs or American culture.

23. The Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) Supreme Court decision legally established which discriminatory practice?

Correct Answer: C) Separate but equal doctrine

Thought Process: Plessy v. Ferguson upheld the constitutionality of racial segregation under the doctrine of "separate but equal," providing a legal basis for Jim Crow laws and widespread discrimination for decades.

24. Which of the following best describes the goal of civil service reform during the Gilded Age?

Correct Answer: B) To ensure government jobs were awarded based on merit.

Thought Process: Civil service reform, exemplified by the Pendleton Act, aimed to replace the patronage or "spoils system" with a system where government employment was based on competence rather than political connections.

25. Compare and contrast the approaches of Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. DuBois in addressing racial inequality in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Which approach do you think was more effective for the time period, and why?

Expected Answer:
Booker T. Washington advocated for a strategy of vocational education, economic self-sufficiency, and gradual change. He believed that African Americans should focus on acquiring skills and establishing themselves economically within their communities, arguing that political and social equality would naturally follow. His "Atlanta Compromise" speech (1895) suggested that African Americans should temporarily forgo demands for civil rights in exchange for economic opportunities.

W.E.B. DuBois, on the other hand, argued for immediate and full civil rights and political equality. He believed in educating the "Talented Tenth" of African Americans to become leaders who would challenge segregation and discrimination directly. He co-founded the NAACP in 1909 to fight for civil rights through legal and political means, rejecting Washington's more accommodative stance.

Effectiveness for the time period (example reasoning): While both had valid points, DuBois's approach, particularly through the NAACP, laid crucial groundwork for future civil rights movements by directly challenging segregation legally. Washington's focus on economic uplift was important but arguably did not directly confront the systemic legal and social barriers that prevented true equality. Students could argue either way, but must provide clear reasoning. For example, some might argue Washington's approach was more pragmatic for the deeply segregated South, while others might argue DuBois's direct challenge was essential to prevent permanent subjugation.

Thought Process: Students should accurately describe the core tenets of each leader's philosophy (Washington: economic self-sufficiency, gradualism; DuBois: immediate civil rights, "Talented Tenth"). For the evaluative part, they need to make a claim about effectiveness and justify it with evidence from their described approaches.

26. READ THE QUOTE:

"The Constitution, in all its provisions, looks to an indestructible Union, composed of indestructible States." - Salmon P. Chase, Chief Justice of the United States

This quote emphasizes the founding principle of:

Correct Answer: A) Federalism

Thought Process: Federalism is the division of power between a national government and state governments. Chase's quote highlights the enduring nature of both the Union (national) and the States, directly reflecting the principle of federalism where power is shared but both levels of government are considered essential and permanent.

27. Which of the following contributed most to the rise of big business and monopolies in the late 19th century?

Correct Answer: C) New technologies and laissez-faire policies.

Thought Process: Innovations in production and transportation (new technologies) allowed businesses to grow larger and more efficient. Concurrently, a prevailing philosophy of laissez-faire (minimal government regulation) allowed these large corporations to operate with little oversight, consolidate power, and form monopolies.

28. The Battle of Argonne Forest was a significant event during World War I because it:

Correct Answer: B) Was a major American offensive that helped end the war.

Thought Process: The Meuse-Argonne Offensive, culminating in the Battle of Argonne Forest, was a large-scale American-led operation in the final months of WWI. It pushed back German forces and played a crucial role in breaking the Hindenburg Line, significantly contributing to the Allied victory and the armistice.

29. Woodrow Wilson’s Fourteen Points primarily aimed to:

Correct Answer: B) Establish a lasting peace and prevent future wars.

Thought Process: Wilson's Fourteen Points were a comprehensive proposal for a post-WWI peace settlement, focusing on principles like self-determination, open diplomacy, freedom of the seas, and the creation of a League of Nations, all designed to address the root causes of war and prevent future conflicts.

30. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Women picketing for suffrage, early 20th century."

The scene implied by the caption is most closely associated with the passage of which amendment?

Correct Answer: D) 19th Amendment

Thought Process: "Suffrage" refers to the right to vote. Women picketing for suffrage directly relates to the movement that led to the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.

31. The Scopes Trial (1925) highlighted a cultural conflict between:

Correct Answer: B) Science and religious fundamentalism.

Thought Process: The Scopes Trial, also known as the "Monkey Trial," concerned a teacher accused of violating a Tennessee law that prohibited the teaching of evolution. It became a nationally publicized debate between modern scientific theories (evolution) and traditional religious beliefs (Biblical creationism), representing a clash between urban and rural values as well.

32. Marcus Garvey’s "Back to Africa" movement emphasized:

Correct Answer: C) Black nationalism and self-sufficiency.

Thought Process: Marcus Garvey advocated for racial pride, economic independence, and the establishment of independent Black nations. His "Back to Africa" movement encouraged African Americans to return to Africa to build their own societies, promoting self-reliance and unity among Black people.

33. C-E-R Response: Did the Progressive Era reforms fundamentally change American society, or were their impacts limited? Make a claim, support it with at least two pieces of evidence (specific reforms, muckrakers, or leaders), and explain your reasoning.

Expected Answer:
Claim: (Student makes a clear claim: e.g., "Progressive Era reforms fundamentally changed American society" OR "The impacts of Progressive Era reforms were limited.")

Evidence (must include at least two specific examples):

• Reforms: 16th Amendment (income tax), 17th Amendment (direct election of senators), 19th Amendment (women's suffrage), Initiative, Referendum, Recall (increased direct democracy), Pure Food and Drug Act, Meat Inspection Act (consumer protection).
• Muckrakers: Upton Sinclair (The Jungle), Ida Tarbell (The History of the Standard Oil Company), Jacob Riis (How the Other Half Lives).
• Leaders: Theodore Roosevelt (trust-busting, conservation), Woodrow Wilson (Federal Reserve, Clayton Antitrust Act), Jane Addams (settlement houses), Susan B. Anthony (suffrage), W.E.B. DuBois (civil rights).

Reasoning: Student explains how their chosen evidence supports their claim. For example:

• If claiming fundamental change: "The 19th Amendment fundamentally changed society by doubling the electorate and empowering women politically, leading to shifts in social roles and greater advocacy for women's issues. Additionally, muckrakers like Upton Sinclair, through The Jungle, exposed shocking conditions in industries, which led to significant government intervention with the Pure Food and Drug Act, proving that public outcry fueled by investigative journalism could prompt major regulatory changes that protected public health and challenged corporate power. These systemic changes in political participation, consumer protection, and government oversight represent fundamental shifts rather than limited impacts."
• If claiming limited impact: "Despite numerous reforms, the impact of the Progressive Era was limited because many fundamental inequalities, especially racial segregation and discrimination (as evidenced by the continued Jim Crow laws and the Plessy v. Ferguson decision), remained largely unaddressed by the federal government. While Booker T. Washington advocated for economic self-sufficiency, widespread systemic barriers persisted. Furthermore, some reforms, like Prohibition (18th Amendment), led to unintended negative consequences like organized crime, demonstrating the limits of government's ability to legislate morality and indicating that not all 'progress' had a truly positive societal impact."

Thought Process: This question requires students to analyze the Progressive Era, form a stance, and support it with specific historical evidence, explaining the connection between the evidence and their claim. They need to demonstrate a higher order of thinking (DOK 3).

34. Which of the following was a social issue of the 1920s directly related to the 18th Amendment?

Correct Answer: B) The rise of speakeasies and organized crime.

Thought Process: The 18th Amendment established Prohibition, banning the sale and manufacture of alcohol. This led to a thriving illegal alcohol industry, with clandestine bars (speakeasies) and the rise of powerful organized crime syndicates that profited from illicit liquor.

35. The term "Great Migration" refers to the movement of:

Correct Answer: C) African Americans from the rural South to Northern cities.

Thought Process: The Great Migration was a mass movement of millions of African Americans out of the rural Southern United States to the urban Northeast, Midwest, and West, driven by factors like escaping Jim Crow laws, seeking economic opportunities, and avoiding racial violence.

36. READ THE PHOTO CAPTION:

"Assembly line workers producing Model T automobiles, early 1900s."

The image implied by the caption demonstrates Henry Ford’s impact on:

Correct Answer: B) Mass production and consumer culture.

Thought Process: The assembly line was the cornerstone of Ford's mass production system. This innovation drastically reduced the cost and time of manufacturing, making the Model T affordable for the average American and ushering in an era of mass consumption and a new consumer culture.

37. Which event most directly led to the U.S. acquiring Guam, Puerto Rico, and temporary control over Cuba and the Philippines?

Correct Answer: C) The Spanish-American War

Thought Process: The Treaty of Paris (1898), which officially ended the Spanish-American War, ceded these territories to the United States, marking a significant moment in American expansionism.

38. The concept of "Social Darwinism" was often used to justify:

Correct Answer: C) Business monopolies and inequality.

Thought Process: Social Darwinism applied Darwinian principles of "survival of the fittest" to human society and business. It was used by wealthy industrialists to justify their immense wealth and power, arguing that they had risen to the top due to their inherent superiority, and that government intervention to help the poor or regulate business would interfere with natural societal progress.

39. The 17th Amendment enhanced democratic participation by:

Correct Answer: B) Allowing for the direct election of senators.

Thought Process: Prior to the 17th Amendment (1913), U.S. senators were chosen by state legislatures. The amendment mandated direct election by the people of each state, making the Senate more accountable to the electorate and increasing democratic participation.

40. READ THE QUOTE:

"The world must be made safe for democracy. Its peace must be planted upon the tested foundations of political liberty." - Woodrow Wilson

This quote best explains Wilson’s rationale for:

Correct Answer: C) U.S. entry into World War I

Thought Process: This famous quote is from Wilson's address to Congress asking for a declaration of war against Germany in April 1917. It encapsulates his idealistic view that the U.S. needed to intervene in WWI not for territorial gain or revenge, but to defend democratic principles globally against autocratic threats.