apush period 6 key concepts pdf

3 min read 03-02-2025

Period 6 of the AP US History curriculum (1865-1898) covers a transformative era in American history, marked by Reconstruction, industrialization, westward expansion, and the rise of the United States as a global power. This guide will break down the key concepts you need to master for success on the AP exam. Understanding these concepts will allow you to analyze historical developments, interpret primary sources, and construct well-supported arguments.

I. Reconstruction and its Challenges (1865-1877)

This period witnessed the turbulent attempt to rebuild the nation after the Civil War. Key concepts include:

Reconstruction Amendments: The 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments aimed to grant citizenship and voting rights to formerly enslaved people, fundamentally altering the social and political landscape. Understand their provisions, limitations, and the ongoing struggle for their full implementation.
Black Codes and Jim Crow Laws: These laws, enacted in the South, aimed to restrict the rights of African Americans and maintain white supremacy. Understanding their evolution and impact is crucial.
Radical Republicans vs. Presidential Reconstruction: Analyze the differing approaches of these groups towards rebuilding the South and integrating formerly enslaved people into society. Consider the successes and failures of each approach.
The Rise of the Ku Klux Klan and other white supremacist groups: These organizations used violence and intimidation to suppress Black political participation and maintain racial hierarchy. Their tactics and impact must be understood within the broader context of Reconstruction.
Compromise of 1877: This controversial agreement effectively ended Reconstruction, leading to the withdrawal of federal troops from the South and the resurgence of white supremacy. Analyze its long-term consequences on race relations and American politics.

Key Figures: Frederick Douglass, Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, Ulysses S. Grant, Thaddeus Stevens

II. The Gilded Age: Industrialization and its Impact (1870s-1900)

This era witnessed unprecedented industrial growth, fueled by technological innovation, abundant natural resources, and a burgeoning workforce. Key concepts include:

Industrialization and its effects: Analyze the impact of industrialization on the American economy, society, and environment. This includes the rise of big business, the growth of cities, and the emergence of new social classes.
Robber Barons and Captains of Industry: Discuss the contrasting views of industrial leaders, considering both their contributions to economic growth and their exploitative practices.
Labor Movements: Examine the rise of labor unions and their struggles against industrialists, including key strikes and their outcomes (e.g., Pullman Strike, Haymarket Riot).
Immigration and Urbanization: Analyze the impact of mass immigration on American society, including the rise of ethnic enclaves, the challenges of assimilation, and the growth of urban centers.
Political Corruption and Reform Movements: Explore political corruption during the Gilded Age and the emergence of progressive movements aimed at addressing social and political ills.

Key Figures: Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, J.P. Morgan, Samuel Gompers

III. Westward Expansion and its Consequences (1865-1898)

The westward expansion continued during this period, leading to significant consequences for Native Americans and the environment. Key concepts include:

Manifest Destiny and its impact on Native Americans: Analyze the ideology of Manifest Destiny and its devastating consequences for Indigenous populations, including displacement, violence, and cultural destruction.
The Dawes Act and its effects: Understand the purpose and impact of this act on Native American land ownership and tribal sovereignty.
Transcontinental Railroad and its impact: Analyze the construction and impact of the Transcontinental Railroad on westward expansion, economic development, and the lives of various groups.
Environmental consequences of westward expansion: Discuss the environmental consequences of westward expansion, including deforestation, resource depletion, and the disruption of ecosystems.

Key Figures: Sitting Bull, Chief Joseph, Geronimo

IV. Rise of the United States as a Global Power (1865-1898)

By the end of Period 6, the US emerged as a significant player on the world stage. Key concepts include:

American Imperialism and its justifications: Analyze the motivations behind American imperialism, including economic interests, strategic considerations, and ideological beliefs.
Spanish-American War and its consequences: Examine the causes and consequences of the Spanish-American War, including the acquisition of overseas territories and the rise of the US as a global power.
Expansionism vs. Anti-Imperialism: Compare and contrast the arguments for and against American imperialism.

Key Figures: Theodore Roosevelt, Alfred Thayer Mahan

This guide provides a framework for understanding the key concepts of APUSH Period 6. Remember to utilize primary and secondary sources, engage in critical analysis, and develop strong historical arguments to fully grasp this complex and crucial period in American history. Good luck with your studies!