What Is Survey of American History?

The survey of American history is a fascinating subject that helps us understand the evolution of the United States from its early days to the present. It encompasses the study of various aspects of American life, including politics, culture, economy, and society. In this article, we will explore what survey of American history is all about and why it is important.

Why Is Survey of American History Important?

Learning about American history helps us understand how the country came to be what it is today. It enables us to analyze and interpret past events and their impact on current affairs. Additionally, studying American history provides us with a sense of identity and belonging as we learn about our nation’s roots.

What Does Survey of American History Cover?

The survey of American history covers a wide range of topics. These include:

  • The colonial era
  • The Revolutionary War
  • The formation and adoption of the Constitution
  • The Civil War and Reconstruction
  • The Industrial Revolution
  • The World Wars
  • The Cold War era
  • Civil rights movements
  • Contemporary issues such as immigration, globalization, and environmentalism.

Colonial Era:

The colonial era refers to the period between the arrival of European explorers in America in the late fifteenth century until the Declaration of Independence in 1776. During this time, European powers established colonies in America for economic gain and religious freedom.

Revolutionary War:

The Revolutionary War was fought between Great Britain and thirteen British colonies in North America from 1775-1783. The war resulted in the United States declaring its independence from Britain.

Formation And Adoption of the Constitution:

The United States Constitution was written in 1787 and adopted the following year. It established the framework for the government and provided a system of checks and balances to ensure that no one branch of government had too much power.

Civil War And Reconstruction:

The Civil War was fought between 1861-1865 and resulted in the abolition of slavery. Reconstruction refers to the period after the war when efforts were made to rebuild the South and integrate newly freed slaves into American society.

Industrial Revolution:

The Industrial Revolution began in the late eighteenth century and transformed America from an agricultural society to an industrialized nation. It brought about new inventions, transportation systems, and communication technologies that changed daily life.

World Wars:

The United States played a crucial role in both World War I (1914-1918) and World War II (1939-1945). The wars had a significant impact on American society, economy, and foreign policy.

Civil Rights Movements:

The civil rights movement refers to social movements in the United States aimed at ending racial discrimination against African Americans. It led to significant changes in American law, politics, and culture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, studying survey of American history is essential for understanding how America became what it is today. It helps us gain insight into past events while providing us with a sense of identity as Americans. By learning about our nation’s roots, we can better understand current affairs as they relate to our shared history.