The most dynamic and momentous period in American history was the 19th century. This period turned out to be the climax of the developments that would later transform the country forever. This era of change saw many Americans participate in the transformations that were taking place around them, including the civil war, reconstruction, and creation of the constitution. This paper discusses the major themes that emerge in US history to 1877, lessons learned, and issues up for debate.
Major Themes
Immigration
One should state that the European migration to America encountered resistance from Native Americans. Different policies and laws on slavery led to the American Revolution (1775-1783), after which a new republic and the Constitution were established, and reconstruction began. The 1800-1877 period was marked by immigration into the US, which raised concerns among the natives. During this era, the American population increased by almost 27 million people (Corbett et al., 2023). Immigrants came in hordes from China and Western Europe and settled in every part of the country in large numbers except in the Deep South, which was rather hostile. Free or contract migrant labor helped grow the economy and triggered democratic movements to agitate for political and civic rights.
Industrial Growth
By the 1900s, America became a global leader in manufacturing. The country’s economy was built on the railroads constructed to facilitate transportation. By the late 1890s, 20 percent of the total rail network was complete (Corbett et al., 2023). Heavy investment in railroads was necessary to power the industrial economy and open up the country. America had overtaken Great Britain as the world leader in iron and steel production. The country’s economy was linked to the larger global economy. Higher immigration rates, family-owned businesses, and urbanization contributed to industrial growth. The social and cultural aspects also affected the economy, as they determined the value attached to the manufacturing sector, who led businesses, and workplace culture (Locke & Wright, 2020). Despite the steady progress in the economy, most Americans were worried that strong corporations, urbanization, immigration, and wage labor could undermine their values.
Politics
Americans came together and founded many reform movements and trade unions. This group (anti-monopolists) comprised farmers, entrepreneurs, and laborers fighting for better terms or treatment. The unifying factor was the concerns about the emergence of powerful corporations and monopolistic entities. According to Locke and Wright (2020), many Americans were worried about the independence of their wages, rising unemployment, and declining individual freedoms and rights. Although the anti-monopolists agreed on the problems they were facing, they always disagreed on the solutions. Finally, they agreed that the main aim of the republican economy was to sustain citizens and ensure independence and prosperity for all. The anti-monopolists thrived to the point that they comprised larger members, including democrats and republicans. Most reforms this group advocated for were enacted during this period.
Reform
Another common theme in American history was structural and policy reform. Many legislative changes were initiated to address social and structural problems in society. In American history, major reform areas revolved around women and civil rights. During this progressive era, many social and political reforms were experienced in the country led by activists and religious figures. Among them, women earned the right to vote in elections. This reform was a major milestone achieved through the 19th amendment (Corbett et al., 2023). For women to get equality, they had to acquire voting rights first. Women worked for low wages during the great depression because they were relegated to menial jobs with meager pay. The reform saw female labor assume roles in industries and factories like men. Therefore, women’s empowerment was instrumental in America’s economic and social development.
Agriculture
Cheap lands and reasonable high wages were available in the US. Between 1870 and 1900, America brought more land under cultivation than ever before. As a result, most states moved from small-scale farming to plantation agriculture in new, large, and fertile tracts of land in the American west and mid-west. They invested heavily in technology – advanced their plows, reapers, and threshers (Locke & Wright, 2020). The wages earned from farm produce fueled home consumptions that triggered the country’s industrial development.
Lessons Learned
From the above themes, several lessons can be learned that have implications for the present society. From a political perspective, immigration to America mainly contributed to the development of the country. Were it not for immigrants that composed a great percentage of the labor force, America could not have experienced phenomenal growth during this period. For example, by the year 1900, 72 percent of the American population was immigrants (Locke & Wright, 2020). An issue for debate is what should be the nation’s immigration policy now.
From the social reforms in America during this period, we learn that women are important in society, and their stake in the economy should not be overlooked. For example, the 19th amendment granted women voting rights that they did not have before. It also allowed them to work in industries like men, but their wages were low (Corbett et al., 2023). A contemporary issue related to this historical milestone is equal pay. Contract terms and compensation should be the same for all people, irrespective of gender, race, or religion.
Culturally, women were allowed to do unpaid domestic work and childbearing roles. For instance, during the great depression (1882-1897), women were given jobs but were paid less than men. A point of debate here is whether cultural values are superior to individual freedoms. Racial discrimination is also a contemporary issue in American society that has its roots in slavery. Minority groups, for example, African Americans, complain of police brutality and injustice (Locke & Wright, 2020). Religious minorities, such as Muslims, also face prejudice and accusations of extremism. These issues illustrate the need for tolerance and protection of minority (migrant) rights in the country.
Another lesson learned from American history is that agriculture is the backbone of the country’s economy. For example, immigration due to economic opportunities in the US was focused on agriculture and manufacturing (Corbett et al., 2023). The issue here is how to adapt the economy to technology for labor that heavily relies on traditional sectors to fight poverty. Effective economic policies should include social support for the vulnerable. Increasing minimum wage levels can improve the living standards of the working class and address socioeconomic inequalities and health disparities.
Conclusion
American history revolves around the themes that triggered its industrial growth during the 19th and 20th centuries. The climax of American development emerged during this period, transforming the country into a major economic powerhouse to date. The foundation upon which the country was based is the reason for America’s stable economy and leadership globally. Inclusive and fair policies should be considered to promote unity and economic participation of all citizens.
References
Corbett, P. S., Janssen, V., & Lund, J. M. (2023). U.S. History. Independently Published.
Locke, J. L., & Wright, B. (Eds.). (2020). The American Yawp: A massively collaborative open US history textbook, Vol. 1: To 1877. Stanford University Press.