Capitalism, or economic success, becomes a defining American characteristic during the period this course studies (1880-1990).

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• The "Gospel of Wealth" by Andrew Carnegie (1889): Industrialist Andrew Carnegie's essay epitomizes the prevailing belief in the virtues of capitalism and the link between economic success and social progress. Carnegie advocated for the notion that wealthy individuals had a moral obligation to use their fortunes to improve society, reflecting the growing influence of philanthropy and social responsibility in the Gilded Age.
• "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald (1925): Fitzgerald's iconic novel captures the allure and excesses of the Roaring Twenties, an era of unbridled economic prosperity and conspicuous consumption. The story delves into the pursuit of the "American Dream," highlighting the complexities of social status, wealth, and the elusive nature of happiness in a capitalist society.
• "The American Century" by Henry Luce (1941): Journalist Henry Luce's article articulates the growing sense of American exceptionalism and global leadership that emerged during World War II. Luce envisioned a post-war world shaped by American values, including capitalism, democracy, and individualism.

Secondary Source Evidence

• "The Rise of Capitalism: A New History" by Fernand Braudel (1982): Braudel's comprehensive analysis of capitalism's global development places the American experience in a broader historical context. He traces the origins of capitalism and its transformation into a dominant economic system, emphasizing the role of entrepreneurship, technological innovation, and cultural factors.
• "The American Economy: A History" by Robert H. Wiebe (2007): Wiebe's detailed historical overview provides insights into the evolution of the American economy from its colonial roots to the present day. He examines the interplay between economic forces, political developments, and social change, highlighting the unique characteristics of American capitalism.
• "The Americanization of the World: The History of American Capitalism" by Donald W. Katz (2000): Katz explores the global impact of American capitalism, tracing its influence on economic systems, political cultures, and consumer societies around the world. He examines the tensions and benefits of Americanization, raising questions about cultural homogenization and the spread of American values.

Conclusion

The period from 1880 to 1990 witnessed a remarkable surge in American economic power, shaping the nation's identity and global influence. Primary and secondary sources document the pervasiveness of capitalism as a defining American characteristic, highlighting its impact on society, culture, and international relations.

2. The Fear of Communism and Its Influence on Modern US History

The rise of communism during the early 20th century cast a long shadow over American foreign policy and domestic affairs. The fear of communism's perceived threat to American values, democracy, and economic system spurred a range of political, cultural, and military responses that significantly shaped modern US history.

Specific Examples of Communist Influence on US History

1. The Cold War (1947-1991): The Cold War, the decades-long political and ideological standoff between the United States and the Soviet Union, was fundamentally rooted in the fear of communism. This global rivalry manifested in proxy wars, nuclear brinkmanship, and a fierce competition for global influence.
2. The Red Scare (1947-1957): The Red Scare, a period of heightened fear of communist infiltration in the United States, led to anti-communist political campaigns, blacklisting, and the McCarthyism era. The fear of internal subversion fueled a climate of suspicion, suppression of dissent, and erosion of civil liberties.
3. The Space Race (1957-1975): The Space Race, the technological competition between the United States and the Soviet Union to achieve human spaceflight, was heavily influenced by the Cold War and the desire to demonstrate technological superiority over the communist bloc.
4. The Vietnam War (1955-1975): The Vietnam War, a protracted conflict in Southeast Asia, was largely driven by the US government's attempt to contain communism and prevent the spread of communist influence in the region.

Impact of the Fear of Communism on US Government, People, and Culture

The fear of communism profoundly impacted the US government, people, and culture. The government's response to the

Sample Answer

Capitalism and Economic Success as Defining American Characteristics

The period from 1880 to 1990 was marked by a remarkable transformation of the United States into an economic powerhouse. The rise of industrialization, technological advancements, and entrepreneurial spirit fueled unprecedented economic growth, making the U.S. the world's leading economic power by the mid-20th century. This economic success became intricately intertwined with the American identity, shaping the nation's self-perception and its role on the global stage.