History of the United States (1865–1917)

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== History of the United States (1865–1917) ==

The history of the United States from 1865 to 1917 covers the period following the American Civil War up to the entry of the United States into World War I. This era is marked by significant social, economic, and political changes, including Reconstruction, the Gilded Age, and the Progressive Era.

Reconstruction (1865–1877)

Reconstruction was the period immediately following the American Civil War during which the Southern states were reorganized and reintegrated into the Union. Key events during this period include the passage of the Reconstruction Amendments: the Thirteenth Amendment (abolishing slavery), the Fourteenth Amendment (granting citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States), and the Fifteenth Amendment (prohibiting the denial of the right to vote based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude).

The Gilded Age (1877–1896)

The Gilded Age was a period of rapid economic growth, especially in the Northern and Western United States. This era saw the rise of industrialization, the expansion of the railroad network, and the growth of large corporations. Key figures during this time include John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, and J.P. Morgan. The period was also marked by significant social issues, including labor unrest, the rise of labor unions, and the influx of immigrants.

The Progressive Era (1896–1917)

The Progressive Era was a period of social activism and political reform across the United States. Progressives sought to address the problems caused by industrialization, urbanization, immigration, and political corruption. Key reforms during this period include the establishment of the Federal Reserve System, the passage of the Sixteenth Amendment (allowing a federal income tax), the Seventeenth Amendment (establishing the direct election of Senators), and the Nineteenth Amendment (granting women the right to vote).

Foreign Policy and Expansion

During this period, the United States also expanded its influence abroad. The Spanish-American War in 1898 resulted in the U.S. acquiring territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. The construction of the Panama Canal further established the United States as a global power.

Entry into World War I

The period ended with the United States' entry into World War I in 1917. The U.S. initially maintained a policy of neutrality, but several factors, including the Zimmermann Telegram and unrestricted submarine warfare by Germany, led to the decision to join the Allied Powers.

Related Pages

• American Civil War
• Reconstruction Amendments
• Gilded Age
• Progressive Era
• Spanish-American War
• World War I