American History

This exam is written to cover American history from Reconstruction through the 1920s. Write five pages each on two of the following questions. You choose one essay, but the other must come from your reading. Remember that these are your essays reflecting your own, unique perspective on United States history to 1930.

5 Page Essay On One Of These Topics:
-Discuss Reconstruction in United States history. Why did this period become so controversial after the American Civil War?

-The Indian Frontier of the American West represented a great human barrier to many who searched for the individual and national rewards of the “American Dream.” Write a thoughtful essay on this significant chapter in our history.

-Describe the Mineral Frontier; Ranching Frontier; or Farming Frontier after 1865.

-Write an essay on the Expansive or Industrial Age in American history and its significance to future national growth.

-Describe American leadership during these years. In your opinion, did the nation’s spokesmen represent the country’s best interest?

-Discuss the 1898 Spanish-American War and its impact on U.S. history. You may include American Expansionism or Imperialism in your essay.

-Write an essay on the background and causes of World War I and how our involvement changed the country.

-The decade following World War I has been called the “Dry Decade,” the “Era of Wonderful Nonsense,” the “Age of the Flapper,” and the “Roaring Twenties.” Give your own definition to the 1920’s and its importance to the Nation.

-Choose an individual during this period (1865-1930) and discuss his or her life.

5 Page Required Essay:

Please discuss Christopher Capozzola’s Uncle Sam Wants You: World War I and the Making of the Modern American Citizen. Why is it important to get a war perspective from the Home Front?

If you use any sources for in-text citation make sure to include a works cited page.