The Early 20th Century (1890-1945)

Joseph Brown

7 min read

Next Topic - Context: America in the World

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Study Guide Overview

This AP US History study guide covers the period 1890-1945, focusing on economic transformation (industrialization, Great Depression, New Deal), technological and cultural shifts (automobiles, radios, migration), foreign policy evolution (isolationism to global power, World Wars), and social movements (women's rights, African American Civil Rights). It also includes a timeline, key trends, practice questions, and exam tips.

#AP US History Study Guide: 1890-1945 🚀

Hey there! Let's get you prepped and confident for your AP US History exam. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource for the period between 1890 and 1945, focusing on the key themes and trends you need to know. Let's dive in!

#1. Economic Transformation 💰

#1.1. Rise of the US Economy

Key Concept

The US economy experienced massive growth, becoming the world's largest by the 1920s. This was fueled by industrialization and urbanization.

- **GDP Growth:** The US became a major global importer and exporter. - **Post-WWI Boom:** US economic dominance peaked post-WWII due to war production. - **Urbanization:** More people moved to cities, driving industrial growth and changing social structures. - **Industrialization:** Factories boomed, leading to mass production and a consumer culture.

#1.2. Challenges and Responses

Progressive Era: Reformers tried to fix the problems caused by industrialization.
The Great Depression: A major economic downturn that challenged the US and led to new government solutions.

#2. Technological and Cultural Shifts 🚗📻

#2.1. Technological Advancements

Key Concept

New technologies like automobiles and radios transformed American culture and accelerated the creation of a national identity.

- **Consumer Culture:** The US shifted towards mass consumption, with more goods being bought than made at home. - **Automobiles:** The car revolutionized transportation and led to suburban growth. - **Radios:** Created a shared national culture through mass communication.

The Ford Model T, a symbol of early 20th-century mass production.

#2.2. Migration Patterns

Suburbanization: People moved from cities to suburbs, facilitated by cars.
Westward and Southward Migration: Internal migration within the US, especially towards the West Coast.
Immigration: Increased immigration from China, Japan, and Eastern Europe.

#3. Fore...

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Previous Topic - Continuity and Change in Period 6 Next Topic - Context: America in the World

The Early 20th Century (1890-1945)

Joseph Brown

7 min read

Next Topic - Context: America in the World

Listen to this study note

Study Guide Overview

#AP US History Study Guide: 1890-1945 🚀

#1. Economic Transformation 💰

#1.1. Rise of the US Economy

Key Concept

The US economy experienced massive growth, becoming the world's largest by the 1920s. This was fueled by industrialization and urbanization.

#1.2. Challenges and Responses

Progressive Era: Reformers tried to fix the problems caused by industrialization.
The Great Depression: A major economic downturn that challenged the US and led to new government solutions.

#2. Technological and Cultural Shifts 🚗📻

#2.1. Technological Advancements

Key Concept

New technologies like automobiles and radios transformed American culture and accelerated the creation of a national identity.

The Ford Model T, a symbol of early 20th-century mass production.

#2.2. Migration Patterns

Suburbanization: People moved from cities to suburbs, facilitated by cars.
Westward and Southward Migration: Internal migration within the US, especially towards the West Coast.
Immigration: Increased immigration from China, Japan, and Eastern Europe.

#3. Fore...

How are we doing?

Give us your feedback and let us know how we can improve

Previous Topic - Continuity and Change in Period 6 Next Topic - Context: America in the World