Capitalism, or economic success, becomes a defining American characteristic

Full Answer Section

• Andrew Carnegie, Gospel of Wealth (1889): In this essay, the industrialist Andrew Carnegie eloquently advocates for the concept of social responsibility among the wealthy, proposing that they should use their fortunes to improve the lives of others. This reflects the growing awareness of the social consequences of vast wealth accumulation during this period.
• Horatio Alger, Ragged Dick (1868): This popular novel, part of the Alger series, epitomizes the Horatio Alger myth, the belief that upward mobility is achievable through hard work, perseverance, and moral integrity. This narrative resonated with many Americans as they sought to improve their economic standing.

Secondary Source Evidence:

• David Brion Davis, Inhuman Bondage: The Rise and Fall of Slavery in the New World (1975): This comprehensive history of slavery provides insights into the economic underpinnings of slavery, particularly its role in the development of capitalism in the American South.
• Eric Foner, Give Me Liberty! An American History (2015): In this sweeping survey of American history, Foner emphasizes the pivotal role of economic transformations in shaping the nation's trajectory, including the rise of capitalism and the impact of industrialization.

The Fear of Communism's Influence on Modern US History

The fear of communism permeated American society during the Cold War, significantly influencing US foreign policy, domestic politics, and cultural expression. This ideological rivalry between capitalism and communism shaped the global landscape and had profound consequences for the United States.

Specific Examples of the Fear of Communism's Impact:

• The Marshall Plan (1947): In response to the perceived threat of communism in Europe, the United States launched the Marshall Plan, a massive economic aid program designed to rebuild war-torn countries and prevent their potential alignment with the Soviet Union.
• The Korean War (1950-1953): The United States intervened in the Korean War to prevent the establishment of a communist government on the Korean Peninsula, marking the beginning of direct military confrontation between the US and the Soviet Union.
• The McCarthy Era (1950-1956): Senator Joseph McCarthy's anti-communist crusade led to a wave of fear and suspicion in the United States, resulting in accusations of communist infiltration, blacklisting, and the persecution of alleged communists.
• The Space Race (1955-1975): The competition between the US and the Soviet Union to achieve technological supremacy in space was driven, in part, by the ideological rivalry between capitalism and communism.

The US Transition from Isolationism to Globalism

The United States underwent a significant shift from isolationism to globalism during the 20th century, becoming a leading force in international affairs. This transformation was driven by a combination of factors, including the aftermath of World War I, the Cold War, and economic interdependence.

Specific Events that Led to Closer Global Foreign Policy:

• World War I (1914-1918): The devastating impact of World War I convinced many Americans of the need for international cooperation and collective security, leading to the establishment of the League of Nations and the US's involvement in global affairs.
• World War II (1939-1945): The US's active participation in World War II and its emergence as a global superpower propelled it onto the world stage, shaping the postwar international order and establishing its role as a global leader.
• The Cold War (1947-1991): The ideological rivalry between the US and the Soviet Union during the Cold War drew the United States into global conflicts and alliances, expanding its diplomatic and military reach around the world.
• Economic Interdependence: The increasing interconnectedness of the global economy, particularly after World War II, fostered greater economic cooperation and integration, leading to the US's engagement in international trade organizations and agreements.

Defining "American" in the Eyes of White Americans (1880-1990)

During the period from 1880 to 1990, white Americans often defined who was and wasn't "American" based on

Sample Answer

Capitalism and Economic Success as Defining American Characteristics (1880-1990)

The period between 1880 and 1990 witnessed a remarkable transformation in the United States, as it emerged as a global economic powerhouse and cemented its identity as a bastion of capitalism. This era, often referred to as the Gilded Age and the Progressive Era, was marked by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and economic growth. The pursuit of wealth and material success became central to the American dream, shaping the nation's social, political, and cultural landscape