Turning points in American history that historians have emphasized or should emphasize

Full Answer Section

     

• The Civil Rights Movement (1954-1968): The Civil Rights Movement was a nonviolent struggle to end racial segregation and discrimination in the United States. The movement led to the passage of landmark legislation, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which helped to dismantle Jim Crow segregation and expand voting rights for African Americans.
• The Vietnam War (1954-1975): The Vietnam War was a long and costly conflict that had a profound impact on American society. The war divided the country and led to a widespread loss of trust in the government.
• The Watergate scandal (1972-1974): The Watergate scandal was a political scandal that led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. The scandal damaged public trust in the government and led to a series of reforms designed to prevent future abuses of power.
• The Iran-Contra Affair (1985-1987): The Iran-Contra Affair was a political scandal that involved the secret sale of arms to Iran and the diversion of the proceeds to fund the Nicaraguan Contras. The scandal damaged public trust in the government and led to a number of reforms, including the passage of the War Powers Resolution.
• The 9/11 attacks (2001): The 9/11 attacks were a series of coordinated terrorist attacks on the United States. The attacks had a profound impact on American society, culture, and foreign policy.
• The Great Recession (2008-2009): The Great Recession was the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. The recession led to widespread job losses and foreclosures. It also had a significant impact on public trust in the government and the financial system.

These are just a few examples of other turning points in American history that historians have emphasized or should emphasize. These turning points could influence where new American history surveys begin and end in a number of ways. For example, a survey that begins with the Great Migration would emphasize the importance of race in American history. A survey that ends with the Great Recession would focus on the challenges facing the United States in the 21st century. Ultimately, the decision of where to begin and end an American history survey is a complex one that historians must make based on their own judgment and the goals of the survey. However, it is important to consider a variety of turning points, including those listed above, when making this decision.  

Sample Answer

   

In addition to the turning points in American history that are typically emphasized in American history surveys, there are a number of other turning points that historians have emphasized or should emphasize. These turning points include:

• The Great Migration (1915-1970): The Great Migration was the movement of over six million African Americans from the South to the North and West. This migration had a profound impact on American society, culture, and politics.
• The New Deal (1933-1939): The New Deal was a series of programs and reforms enacted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression. The New Deal transformed the role of the federal government in American society and laid the foundation for the modern welfare state.