7.1 Contextualizing Period 7

The end of a frontier era

By 1890, the Census Bureau declared the frontier closed, marking the end of westward expansion as a defining force. The U.S. transformed from an agrarian, rural society into an industrial, urban power. Rapid industrialization, immigration, and urbanization reshaped daily life, setting the stage for reform movements and America's rise as a global player.

Domestic reform meets global ambition

Progressive reformers responded to problems caused by industrial capitalism—corruption, inequality, unsafe labor conditions—by expanding government regulation. Simultaneously, the U.S. pursued overseas expansion and imperialism, acquiring territories like the Philippines and intervening in Latin America, driven by economic interests, ideas of racial superiority, and a desire for global markets and power.

War, depression, and government growth

Period 7 saw the U.S. enter World War I and World War II, dramatically expanding federal power and international influence. The Great Depression triggered the New Deal, permanently increasing the federal government's role in the economy and social welfare. These crises transformed American society, politics, and the nation's place in world affairs.

Key terms

1890 Census declaration

Announced the frontier was closed, symbolizing the end of westward expansion and the rise of industrial America.

Progressivism

A reform movement addressing problems from industrial capitalism, such as corruption, inequality, and unsafe labor conditions.

American imperialism

U.S. overseas expansion driven by economic interests, desire for global power, and racial superiority ideas (e.g., Philippines, Latin America).

New Deal

FDR's programs responding to the Great Depression that permanently expanded the federal government's economic and social role.

Effect of World Wars I & II on the U.S.

Expanded federal government power and solidified the United States' emergence as a global power.

Try an AP-style question

Period 7 (1890–1945) is best characterized by…

1. the Cold War and the space race
2. colonial settlement and exploration
3. reform, world wars, and economic crisis
4. the Civil War and Reconstruction