The SAT Subject Test in United States History assesses students' knowledge of American history, including key events, themes, and figures.
After the Civil War, the U.S. transformed from a rural, agricultural society into an industrial powerhouse. Advances in technology, like the railroad and telegraph, connected people and markets like never before. Huge corporations (think Carnegie Steel and Standard Oil) dominated the economy.
Cities grew rapidly as people flocked for factory jobs, while immigrants arrived in record numbers. Working conditions were often poor, leading to the rise of labor unions and strikes.
Reformers known as Progressives worked to address problems like child labor, political corruption, and unsafe food. They pushed for laws to regulate business, improve cities, and expand democracy (like the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote).
Debates about business regulation, workers’ rights, and social reforms have their roots in this era.
Students research how the Pure Food and Drug Act changed consumer safety.
A history class debates the pros and cons of trusts and monopolies.
Industrialization brought prosperity and problems, sparking reforms that still affect us.