American History from 1877 to Present

Instructions: Simply answer all questions to the best of your ability using evidence from assigned readings and films. The best essays will use different sources when it’s relevant to do so.
Write out everything in your own words unless you are quoting a source. Please use parentheses to cite
sources. For example, (American Yawp, Chapter 15), (U.S. and the Holocaust film), or (lecture notes)
Please type out your exams and then upload them on Canvas as a Word document. You should use 12-point font. You can use single or double-spacing.
Questions (100 points total)
1. (50 points) The rapid convulsions and transformations that shook the United States after the Civil War often resulted in violence and violent conflict. Pick three different examples of the role of violence in shaping American history during the periods we’ve covered so far in class. In your essay then answer these questions: What made each example such a violent period in American history? How did the violence change the course of American history? And, finally, what connections do you see between your three examples? Are there common underlying causes or issues? Why or why not?
2. (25 points) According to The American Yawp, “imperialism and immigration were two sides of the same coin” for the U.S. during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Why was this the case? What two examples do you think best reveal the relationship between imperialism and immigration during this time
and why?
3. (25 points) What stands out most to you about American history during the time period we’ve covered so far this semester? Which two events or issues do you think were most consequential for the nation and why? How are those events or issues still relevant to our world today?