Understanding the complexities of American history is essential for students aiming to excel in Advanced Placement United States History (APUSH). Chapter 27 of the APUSH curriculum covers a pivotal era in the early 20th century, highlighting the political, social, and economic transformations that shaped modern America. This comprehensive guide to APUSH Chapter 27 notes offers an in-depth look into key themes, events, and figures, providing a valuable resource for exam preparation and historical understanding.
Overview of APUSH Chapter 27
Chapter 27 focuses on the United States during the 1920s and early 1930s, a period often characterized by rapid economic growth, cultural shifts, and significant political challenges. This chapter examines the aftermath of World War I, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and the New Deal policies that followed. It also explores the social tensions, racial issues, and foreign policy decisions that defined this transformative era.
Key Themes and Concepts
Understanding Chapter 27 involves grasping several interconnected themes:
1. Post-War America and the 1920s Economic Boom
- The war’s end left the U.S. as a dominant economic power.
- The 1920s experienced unprecedented prosperity, driven by technological advances, mass production, and consumerism.
- Industries such as automobiles, radio, and entertainment flourished.
2. Cultural and Social Changes
- The decade saw the emergence of jazz, flappers, and a break from traditional norms.
- The Harlem Renaissance highlighted African American cultural contributions.
- Women's roles evolved, exemplified by the flapper culture and the fight for women's suffrage, culminating in the 19th Amendment.
3. Political Landscape and Isolationism
- The U.S. adopted a policy of isolationism, avoiding entanglements in European conflicts.
- Key policies included the Washington Naval Conference and the Kellogg-Briand Pact aimed at arms reduction.
- The Republican administrations of Harding, Coolidge, and Hoover promoted business interests and limited government intervention.
4. Racial and Social Tensions
- The 1920s saw the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan and increased racial violence.
- Discrimination against African Americans, immigrants, and other minority groups persisted.
- The Sacco and Vanzetti case exemplified the era’s xenophobia and prejudice.
5. The Onset of the Great Depression
- The stock market crash of 1929 marked the beginning of economic collapse.
- Underlying causes included uneven wealth distribution, over-speculation, and fragile banking systems.
- The depression led to mass unemployment, poverty, and social unrest.
Major Events and Their Significance
A chronological overview of key events from Chapter 27 provides context for understanding this era:
The Roaring Twenties (1920-1929)
- Economic prosperity and cultural dynamism.
- The rise of mass entertainment and consumer culture.
- The emergence of new social attitudes challenging traditional values.
The Red Scare and Immigration Restrictions
- Post-World War I fears of communism, anarchism, and radicalism.
- Palmer Raids targeted suspected radicals.
- Immigration quotas limited influxes from Southern and Eastern Europe.
The Stock Market Crash and the Great Depression (1929-1939)
- Black Tuesday (October 29, 1929) as the stock market’s catastrophic plunge.
- Widespread bank failures and business closures.
- Unemployment soared, peaking at around 25%.
The New Deal (1933-1939)
- President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s series of programs aimed at economic recovery.
- Key initiatives included the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA), and the Social Security Act.
- The New Deal expanded the role of the federal government in economic and social life.
Key Figures of the Era
Understanding the leaders and influential figures is vital:
- Warren G. Harding – Promoted a return to normalcy post-WWI and pro-business policies.
- Calvin Coolidge – Continued pro-business policies, emphasizing limited government.
- Herbert Hoover – His presidency was marked by the onset of the Great Depression and his response to economic hardship.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt – Architect of the New Deal, leading the nation out of economic despair.
- Marcus Garvey – Prominent black nationalist advocating for racial pride and economic independence.
Economic Policies and Their Impact
The economic strategies of the 1920s and 1930s shaped American society:
Pro-Business Policies
- Tax cuts for the wealthy.
- Deregulation of industries.
- Promotion of laissez-faire economics.
Government Intervention during the Great Depression
- Roosevelt’s New Deal policies marked a shift towards active government involvement.
- Programs aimed to provide relief, recovery, and reform.
- The establishment of agencies like the Federal Emergency Relief Administration (FERA) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
Social and Cultural Movements
This era was also notable for significant social movements:
- Harlem Renaissance: Celebrated African American culture, arts, and music.
- Women’s Rights: The 19th Amendment (1920) granted women the right to vote, leading to increased activism and social change.
- Prohibition: The 18th Amendment (1919) prohibited alcohol, leading to the rise of speakeasies and organized crime.
Foreign Policy and International Relations
The U.S. adopted policies emphasizing peace and disarmament:
- Washington Naval Conference (1921-1922): Limited naval arms among major powers.
- Kellogg-Briand Pact (1928): Renounced war as a means of resolving disputes.
- Isolationism: Focused on domestic issues and avoided European conflicts.
Summary and Exam Tips
To effectively study APUSH Chapter 27 notes, focus on:
- Understanding cause-and-effect relationships, such as how economic policies contributed to the Great Depression.
- Recognizing key figures and their policies.
- Connecting cultural shifts with broader social movements.
- Analyzing the shift from isolationism to active government intervention.
Exam Tip: Be prepared to analyze primary sources from the era, compare different political philosophies, and evaluate the impact of policies like the New Deal.
Conclusion
APUSH Chapter 27 encapsulates a dynamic period of American history marked by prosperity, cultural innovation, economic collapse, and reform. Mastering this chapter’s notes provides insight into the foundational changes that set the stage for the mid-20th century. Whether preparing for essays, multiple-choice questions, or DBQs, a thorough understanding of this era is crucial for success in APUSH.
This detailed summary of APUSH Chapter 27 notes aims to serve as a comprehensive resource for students seeking to deepen their understanding and excel in their exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main themes covered in APUSH Chapter 27 notes?
Chapter 27 focuses on U.S. involvement in World War I, the social and political changes during the war, the post-war era, and the emergence of the 1920s, including economic growth and cultural shifts.
How did the United States justify its entry into World War I according to Chapter 27 notes?
The U.S. justified entry through the protection of democracy, responding to German submarine warfare, and supporting allies like Britain and France, emphasizing the need to make the world 'safe for democracy.'
What were the major effects of World War I on American society as discussed in Chapter 27?
The war led to increased government intervention, the suppression of dissent, racial tensions, women's increased participation in the workforce, and a shift toward a more modern, urban society.
How did the Treaty of Versailles impact the United States, based on APUSH Chapter 27 notes?
Although the U.S. played a significant role in the treaty negotiations, the Senate ultimately rejected the Treaty of Versailles, particularly the League of Nations, leading to a return to isolationist policies.
What economic changes occurred in the U.S. during the 1920s as outlined in Chapter 27 notes?
The 1920s saw a boom in consumer goods, stock market expansion, technological innovations, and increased corporate profits, but also laid the groundwork for economic instability leading to the Great Depression.
How did social and cultural shifts in the 1920s relate to the themes in Chapter 27?
The 1920s experienced cultural upheaval with the Harlem Renaissance, the flapper culture, the rise of jazz, and challenges to traditional norms, reflecting a more modern and diverse American identity.
What role did government policies play in shaping post-World War I America according to Chapter 27 notes?
Government policies included efforts to combat communism and radicalism through Palmer Raids, promoting isolationism in foreign policy, and supporting business interests during the economic expansion of the 1920s.
