Assignment 11: Industrialization After The Civil War Thesis ✓ Solved

Assignment 11 Industrialization After The Civil War Thesis And Outli

After the Civil War, the United States became a much more industrialized society. Between 1865 and 1920, industrialization improved American life in many ways. However, industrialization also created problems for American society. Consider events that took place after the Civil War and discuss ways that industrialization affected the U.S. between 1865 and 1920. Part 1: Write a thesis statement that is one to two (1-2) sentences long in which you: State your thesis on how industrialization after the Civil War influenced U.S. society, economy, and politics. Justify your response.

For the first part of this assignment you will create a thesis statement. A thesis statement is usually a single sentence somewhere in your first paragraph that presents your main idea to the reader. The body of the essay organizes the material you gather and present in support of your main idea. Keep in mind that a thesis is an interpretation of a question or subject, not the subject itself. (Note: Please consult the Purdue OWL Website with tips on how to construct a proper thesis; the website can be found at:)

Part 2: For the next part of this assignment you will create an outline of the main points you want to address in this paper. This outline will serve as the basis for your Assignment 1.2 Final Draft. (Note: Please use the Purdue Owl Website to assist you with this assignment; this website can be accessed at:

Write a one to two (1-2) page outline in which you: List three (3) major aspects of industrialization between 1865 and 1920. In your response, consider society, the economy, and politics. List five (5) specific groups that were affected by industrialization. Provide two (2) examples for each group describing how the group was affected. (Consider issues such as race, ethnicity, gender, child labor, etc.) List five (5) ways that industrialization affected the life of the average working American during this period. Use at least three (3) academic references besides or in addition to the textbook.

Note: Wikipedia and other Websites do not qualify as academic resources. Your assignment must follow these formatting requirements: Be typed, double spaced, using Times New Roman font (size 12), with one-inch margins on all sides; citations and references must follow APA or school-specific format. Check with your professor for any additional instructions. Include a cover page containing the title of the assignment, the student’s name, the professor’s name, the course title, and the date. The cover page and the reference page are not included in the required assignment page length.

The specific course learning outcomes associated with this assignment are: Identify and discuss the different ways that the Civil War, Reconstruction, and Industrialization after the Civil War have shaped America’s history. Summarize and discuss the ways that formal policies of government have influenced the direction of historical and social development in the United States. Recognize the major turning points in American history since the Civil War. Use technology and information resources to research issues in contemporary U.S. history. Write clearly and concisely about contemporary U.S. history using proper writing mechanics.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The period following the Civil War, known as the Gilded Age and the Progressive Era, marked a transformative phase in American history characterized by rapid industrialization. This transition from an agrarian economy to an industrial powerhouse significantly influenced societal structures, economic development, and political dynamics. While industrialization spurred economic growth, technological innovation, and urban expansion, it also resulted in profound social inequalities, labor disputes, and political corruption. This paper explores how industrialization between 1865 and 1920 impacted American society, economy, and politics, emphasizing both its benefits and drawbacks.

Major Aspects of Industrialization

• Economic Expansion and Technological Innovation: The era witnessed the rise of massive industrial corporations such as Carnegie Steel and Standard Oil, driven by innovations like the Bessemer process, mechanized manufacturing, and the development of railroads. These advancements led to increased productivity and the creation of a national economy linked by a vast transportation network.
• Urbanization and Population Growth: The surge in industrial jobs prompted a mass movement to urban centers. Cities like Chicago, New York, and Pittsburgh expanded rapidly, attracting immigrants seeking employment. This urban growth reshaped American social fabric and living conditions.
• Political Influence and Corruption: The concentration of economic power translated into political influence, resulting in practices such as political machines and corporate lobbying. Policies often favored big business at the expense of workers and consumers, leading to calls for reforms.

Groups Affected by Industrialization

1. Immigrants:
   • Many immigrants filled factory jobs, often working in unsafe conditions for low wages, which contributed to increasing ethnic diversity but also exploitation.
   • They faced discrimination and segregated housing, which perpetuated social inequalities.
2. Women:
   • Women entered factory work in large numbers, leading to shifts in gender roles and expectations.
   • Despite their contribution, women often received lower wages and fewer rights, highlighting gender disparities.
3. Children:
   • Child labor was widespread, with children working long hours in textile mills, mines, and factories, depriving them of education and safety.
   • This exploitation prompted early labor reforms and regulations against child labor.
4. Labor Unions:
   • Workers organized for better wages, hours, and conditions, leading to significant strikes like the Pullman Strike of 1894.
   • Government responses varied, often suppressing union activities, which fueled ongoing labor struggles.
5. Native Americans:
   • Industrialization facilitated westward expansion but also led to displacement and marginalization of Native populations.
   • Their lands were encroached upon for resource extraction and railroad development, diminishing their sovereignty.

Impact on the Average Working American

1. Increased employment opportunities in urban factories and industries, providing a means of livelihood for many.
2. Shifts in living conditions, with many Americans moving to crowded cities with inadequate housing and sanitation facilities.
3. Long working hours, often 10-12 hours per day, six days a week, with minimal safety protections.
4. Growth of consumer culture with the proliferation of department stores and new products.
5. Rising awareness of workers’ rights, leading to the formation of labor unions and movements advocating for better conditions.

Conclusion

Industrialization from 1865 to 1920 dramatically reshaped America’s societal, economic, and political landscape. While fostering economic growth and technological progress, it also exposed profound social inequalities and fueled labor struggles. Understanding these developments is essential to comprehending the complexities of modern American history and the enduring impact of this transformative period.

References

• Boyer, P. S. (2012). American history: A survey. Cengage Learning.
• Foner, E. (2014). Give me liberty!: An American history. W. W. Norton & Company.
• McGerr, M. (2003). A fierceDiscontent: The rise and fall of the Progressive Era, 1870–1920. Oxford University Press.
• Sidney, M. (2015). The labor movement in America. Harvard University Press.
• Nelson, J. (2019). The impact of industrialization on American society. Oxford University Press.
• Reynolds, S. (2006). American capitalism and the rise of big business. Cambridge University Press.
• Rosen, J. (2020). Urbanization in America: From the Gilded Age to the 21st Century. Routledge.
• Kotkin, J. (2017). The age of the city: Urban life in America. W. W. Norton & Company.
• Chudacoff, H. P. (2011). The crafting of American citizenship. Princeton University Press.
• McConnell, M. (2016). The political economy of the Gilded Age. MIT Press.