Overview
part 1
What are your particular historical interests for the period we're studying? You may want to glance through the table of contents of the textbook to spark some ideas.
part 2
After reading the chapter and the lecture notes, you should have a basic understanding of what Reconstruction was, how it was implemented, and some of the results. In your estimation, was Reconstruction:
- a well-intended experiment that fell short of expectations?
- a harsh Union punishment of the South?
- a timid effort that failed to go far enough?
- an effort that was as successful as could be expected?
Discuss your position and why you think one of these (or another description) best describes the nature of Reconstruction. Support your response with evidence from the textbook and lecture materials.
part 3
Industrialization and Urbanization were two distinct movements that overlap in several ways, and in this topic we will deal with both.
Why did the Industrial Revolution develop on such a grand scale in the U.S.? What factors contributed to such dynamic innovation and economic growth?
Assess and weigh the benefits and detrimental effects of urbanization during the late 19th. Also, did urbanization lead to a decline in religious practice and sentiment, or were there merely adjustments to the new environment?