Unit 6 Apush Progress Check

Conquering the APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check: A Comprehensive Guide

The AP US History Unit 6 Progress Check can feel daunting. Covering the tumultuous period from 1890 to 1945, this unit encompasses significant social, political, and economic transformations in American history. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the key concepts, themes, and historical figures you need to master to succeed on this crucial assessment. We’ll break down the key elements, offer strategies for studying, and provide insights to help you achieve a high score. Understanding this era is vital for succeeding on the APUSH exam, so let’s dive in!

Introduction: The Progressive Era and the Rise of America

Unit 6 of AP US History focuses on a period of immense change in America, spanning from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. This era witnessed the rise of the United States as a global power, accompanied by significant social and political reform movements. The Progressive Era, World War I, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, and World War II are all integral parts of this unit, demanding a thorough understanding of their interconnectedness and impact on American society.

Key Themes and Concepts in APUSH Unit 6:

Several overarching themes intertwine throughout Unit 6. Mastering these themes is crucial for success on the Progress Check and the final AP exam:

• Progressive Reforms: Understand the goals and impact of the Progressive movement. Key figures like Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, and Jane Addams played crucial roles. Learn about their different approaches to reform, focusing on issues like trust-busting, women's suffrage, conservation, and social justice. Consider the successes and limitations of Progressive reforms.

• American Imperialism: Analyze the causes and consequences of American expansionism at the turn of the 20th century. Examine the Spanish-American War, the acquisition of territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, and the debates surrounding imperialism. Understand the perspectives of anti-imperialists and the long-term impact of this expansion.

• World War I and its Aftermath: Delve into the causes of World War I, America's entry into the war, and its significant impact on American society. Explore the war's effects on the home front, including mobilization, propaganda, and the rise of civil liberties restrictions. Understand the Treaty of Versailles and its consequences, including the rise of international tensions.

• The Roaring Twenties: Examine the cultural, economic, and social changes of the 1920s. This includes the rise of consumerism, mass media, jazz music, and the Harlem Renaissance. Analyze the social tensions of the era, such as the rise of nativism, the Red Scare, and the ongoing struggle for racial equality.

• The Great Depression and the New Deal: Understand the causes and consequences of the Great Depression. Analyze the responses of President Herbert Hoover and the subsequent New Deal programs implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Consider the impact of the New Deal on the American economy, social welfare, and the role of government.

• World War II and its Global Impact: Examine the causes and consequences of World War II, including the rise of fascism, appeasement policies, and the events leading to Pearl Harbor. Analyze the American war effort, both domestically and abroad, and the war's impact on American society, including the mobilization of the economy and the changing roles of women and minorities. Understand the significance of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and the beginning of the Cold War.

Key Figures to Know:

Understanding the roles and actions of key historical figures is essential. This list is not exhaustive, but it highlights some of the most important individuals to focus on:

• Theodore Roosevelt: His progressive reforms, conservation efforts, and foreign policy ("Big Stick Diplomacy").

• Woodrow Wilson: His progressive policies, his role in World War I, and the failed attempt to ratify the Treaty of Versailles.

• William Howard Taft: Understanding his relationship with Roosevelt and the split within the Republican Party.

• Herbert Hoover: His response to the Great Depression and its shortcomings.

• Franklin D. Roosevelt: His New Deal programs and their impact on American society, and his leadership during World War II.

• Jane Addams: Her work with Hull House and her contributions to social reform.

• W.E.B. Du Bois: His activism and writings concerning racial equality.

• Booker T. Washington: His contrasting approach to racial equality compared to Du Bois.

• Marcus Garvey: His advocacy for Black nationalism and Pan-Africanism.

• Henry Ford: His impact on industrialization and the assembly line.

Strategies for Mastering Unit 6:

• Create a Timeline: Organize the key events, movements, and figures chronologically to understand the flow of history.

• Use Primary Sources: Engage with primary source documents like letters, speeches, and photographs to gain a deeper understanding of the era.

• Analyze Political Cartoons and Propaganda: These sources offer insights into the perspectives and biases of the time.

• Practice Multiple Choice Questions: Focus on questions that test your understanding of cause and effect, historical context, and the interpretation of primary sources.

• Develop Essay-Writing Skills: Practice writing DBQs (Document-Based Questions) and FRQs (Free-Response Questions) to prepare for the exam. Focus on clear thesis statements, supporting evidence, and effective analysis.

• Utilize Review Books and Online Resources: Supplement your textbook with reliable review books and online resources to reinforce your understanding. Look for practice questions and summaries of key concepts.

Understanding the APUSH Unit 6 Progress Check Format:

The Progress Check usually consists of multiple-choice questions and potentially short-answer questions. The questions will assess your understanding of the key concepts, events, and figures discussed above. They might require you to analyze historical documents, interpret data, and compare and contrast different historical perspectives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

• Q: How much weight does Unit 6 carry on the APUSH exam?

  • A: While the weighting of specific units can vary slightly from year to year, Unit 6 covers a significant portion of the exam, emphasizing its importance.

• Q: Are there specific topics within Unit 6 that are more heavily emphasized?

  • A: While all aspects of Unit 6 are important, the Progressive Era, World War I, the Great Depression, and World War II usually receive a considerable amount of attention on the AP exam.

• Q: How can I best prepare for the multiple-choice questions?

  • A: Practice with multiple-choice questions from past APUSH exams and review books. Focus on understanding the context behind events and the relationships between different historical developments.

• Q: How can I improve my essay-writing skills for the APUSH exam?

  • A: Practice writing essays using the provided prompts. Focus on developing strong thesis statements, supporting your arguments with evidence, and analyzing the historical significance of events.

Conclusion: Achieving Success in APUSH Unit 6

Mastering APUSH Unit 6 requires a dedicated effort and a systematic approach to studying. By focusing on the key themes, figures, and events outlined in this guide, and by using effective study strategies, you can significantly improve your chances of success on the Progress Check and the overall APUSH exam. Remember that understanding the connections between different events and movements is crucial for a thorough grasp of this pivotal period in American history. Don't be afraid to ask your teacher for help and to utilize all available resources. With consistent effort and strategic preparation, you can confidently conquer the challenges of APUSH Unit 6 and achieve your academic goals. Good luck!