HST 202 Module #1
All New; All Different (1877 CE - 1889 CE)
Welcome to HST 202! This is the first learning module examining the United States during the 1880s. This was a significant decade in United States history for several reasons. During this time, the country experienced substantial economic, social, and political changes that had a lasting impact on its development. One key event of the 1880s was the completion of the transcontinental railroad, which linked the East and West coasts of the country and facilitated the expansion of trade and commerce. The 1880s also saw the growth of industrialization and the rise of large corporations, which transformed the American economy and led to the development of a new class of industrialists and business leaders.
In addition to economic changes, the 1880s saw significant social and cultural developments. The country experienced a wave of immigration from Europe, which added to the diversity of American society and led to the growth of urban centers. The 1880s also saw the emergence of new forms of entertainment, such as vaudeville and professional sports, which helped to shape popular culture in the United States. Politically, the 1880s was a time of significant change as well. The Republican Party, which had dominated national politics since the Civil War, began to splinter, and new political movements, such as the Populist Party, emerged. The 1880s also saw the passage of important legislation, including the Dawes Act, which aimed to assimilate Native Americans into mainstream society, and the Sherman Antitrust Act, which aimed to regulate the growing power of large corporations.
Welcome to HST 202! This is the first learning module examining the United States during the 1880s. This was a significant decade in United States history for several reasons. During this time, the country experienced substantial economic, social, and political changes that had a lasting impact on its development. One key event of the 1880s was the completion of the transcontinental railroad, which linked the East and West coasts of the country and facilitated the expansion of trade and commerce. The 1880s also saw the growth of industrialization and the rise of large corporations, which transformed the American economy and led to the development of a new class of industrialists and business leaders.
In addition to economic changes, the 1880s saw significant social and cultural developments. The country experienced a wave of immigration from Europe, which added to the diversity of American society and led to the growth of urban centers. The 1880s also saw the emergence of new forms of entertainment, such as vaudeville and professional sports, which helped to shape popular culture in the United States. Politically, the 1880s was a time of significant change as well. The Republican Party, which had dominated national politics since the Civil War, began to splinter, and new political movements, such as the Populist Party, emerged. The 1880s also saw the passage of important legislation, including the Dawes Act, which aimed to assimilate Native Americans into mainstream society, and the Sherman Antitrust Act, which aimed to regulate the growing power of large corporations.
#1 Historians are Detectives
We need to mention rule #1 for understanding history: Historians are detectives. Much like Batman or Sherlock Holmes, historian look at the crime scene (in this case, the historical event) look for clues (in this case, books or archaeological sites), interview witnesses (in this case, secondary or primary sources) and interpret the findings to determine what happened. Much like an actual crime scene, the investigator must rely on what they have in front of them. Missing pieces always happen, but it's the goal of the historian to fill in the blank spaces with what his or her 'gut" tells them. Or they go to their utility belt of previous knowledge to help determine the most likely outcomes. This becomes rather difficult the further we get from the time frame of the crime, or what is referred to as a "cold case." Scents get thrown off; memory gets muddled. The picture becomes murkier as time slips from our grasp.
In a 2022 Observer article, writer Rory Carroll dives into Irish historian Tom Reilly. Reilly has been ridiculed, condemned, and strong-armed with death for waging a one-person crusade to rehabilitate Oliver Cromwell, the most prominent evildoer in Ireland's history. He has spent three decades trying to persuade his companions that Oliver Cromwell, the 17th-century English conqueror, was moral, honorable, and not a murderer. For those uninitiated, Cromwell was an English politician and military officer widely considered one of the most crucial politicians in English history. He came to stature during the 1640s, first as a senior army commander and then as a politician. Cromwell stays extremely contentious in Britain and Ireland due to his use of the military first to obtain, then maintain, political power and the savagery of his 1649 Irish campaign.
The lengthy, bloodstained method of occupying Ireland generated – directly or indirectly – the demises of such a vast section of the population that the word 'genocide' has even been used. It altered the course of history, leading to stormy ties with England for centuries. Reilly, who has spent 30 years reviewing primary sources, does not deny the widespread bloodshed or infamous components. Nevertheless, he says Cromwell's troops spared civilians and exterminated solely enemy combatants – some in battle, most after they had yielded, a cruel policy but in keeping with the era's code of war. Reilly says Irish history books conflate executed soldiers with "inhabitants," suggesting they were civilians.
Where does he come from with this authority? A lot of detective work is implicated in this century-year-old cold case. Pulling on new material and salvaged original texts, Reilly can re-establish Cromwell's (what he calls) "authentic voice." Is he wrong? Is he right? That is not the pertinent question here. What we should be asking is, does he have enough evidence to create a case? Why do I mention this? Remember that as we dive into the world of "pre-history" we don't have all the answers, and never will.
Comparisons between historians and detectives are not unfounded. The work of both professions requires sifting through fragments of information to construct a coherent and truthful narrative. Historians, just like detectives, are tasked with examining past events, interpreting the clues that remain, and weaving them together to create a rich tapestry of history. But the task of the historian goes beyond mere fact-finding. Instead, it involves interpreting and analyzing evidence to understand the complexities of human experience. History is not simply a collection of dates and names; it is a story of people and their struggles, triumphs, and tragedies. A skilled historian can excavate the hidden stories of those silenced or ignored by dominant narratives, revealing the nuances of history that are often overlooked.
In our current world, where misinformation and half-truths run rampant, studying history in this way is more critical than ever. Only by understanding the past can we comprehend the present and shape the future. As Howard Zinn famously noted, "You can't be neutral on a moving train." By studying history critically, we can recognize the biases and agendas that shape our understanding of the world and work towards a more just and equitable future. Do you know how detectives and historians are alike? They both have to gather evidence that it's going out of style. Detectives collect all kinds of clues from crime scenes and interviews with witnesses, trying to build a case against some poor sap. Historians, they're similar, you know. They gather evidence from here, there, and everywhere to assemble the past. They use primary sources like diaries, letters, and official records and secondary sources like smarty-pants articles and books. But let me tell you, they can't just take everything at face value. They must give every source a good once-over, ensuring it's credible and relevant to their research.
If one thing angers my adrenaline, it's uncovering the truth behind a scandal. Take the Watergate scandal in the '70s, for example. Historians and journalists had their work cut out for them as they sifted through a mountain of evidence to unravel the mess at the Democratic National Committee headquarters. The stakes were high, and the mystery was thick. These folks relied on every tool in the toolbox: confidential sources, government documents, and witness testimony all played a role in piecing together the twisted tale of political intrigue that led to President Richard Nixon's downfall. And let me tell you, and it was a challenging feat. Every detail had to be carefully evaluated, and every scrap of evidence scrutinized.
But in the end, these dedicated historians were able to construct a detailed and accurate account of what went down. It's the kind of work that makes my heart race and my palms sweat – the thrill of the chase, the satisfaction of uncovering the truth. There's nothing quite like it. Consider this: what do historians and detectives have in common? Sure, you might immediately think of their mutual love for trench coats and magnifying glasses, but there's more to it than that. Both professions are fundamentally tasked with interpreting evidence, but the key difference lies in the period. Detectives use their expertise in criminal behavior to decipher the evidence they've gathered and make calculated judgments. On the other hand, historians utilize their knowledge of past events to interpret evidence and arrive at informed conclusions about the historical record. It's not just about the facts themselves; it's about what those facts can tell us about the human experience across time.
We're talking about the Big One, the War to End All Wars, the OG World War, baby. Historians have been digging deep, sifting through diplomatic chit-chat, military intel, and the innermost thoughts of the players involved, all in an attempt to crack the case on what sparked this global conflagration. Some folks say it was all about the Krauts and the Austrians getting too big for their britches, flexing their muscles, and throwing their weight around like a few drunken bar brawlers. But others take a step back, see the bigger picture, and say no; this thing was brewing for a long time, thanks to the tangled web of alliances and the never-ending arms race.
And how do these historians make sense of it all? Using their deep knowledge of the past to interpret the evidence to uncover the hidden motivations and the complex dynamics at play. It isn't always pretty, and it sure ain't simple, but in the end, we get a more nuanced understanding of how the world turned upside down. See, it isn't just about knowing what happened in the past; it's about seeing how it all ties into the present, giving us some damn context for what's happening now. When we look back at what went down, we can start to get a grip on where all these problems we're dealing with today came from and what we can do to fix them.
Take the Civil Rights Movement, for instance. We all know it was a game-changer, a moment that shook the very foundations of America. But it isn't just some old news. It's still relevant as hell today. By digging into that history, we can start to see the roots of the ongoing fight for racial justice in this country. And that isn't just some academic exercise. It's about figuring out how we can move forward and make things right. In examining history through this lens, we uncover a crucial benefit - the cultivation of critical thinking abilities. Discerning evidence and formulating informed interpretations foster a set of proficiencies that prove invaluable across various fields. Amongst these proficiencies lie the aptitude to scrutinize sources, detect partiality, and arrive at well-reasoned resolutions despite insufficiencies in information.
Delving into history aids us in safeguarding our cultural lineage. By chronicling yesteryears, we guarantee that future cohorts shall possess a copious and eclectic narrative of human existence. If not for historians sleuthing away to unearth and construe evidence, much of this saga would fade into obscurity. Like a gumshoe, a historian must gather and decipher clues to create a coherent narrative of bygone eras. It's a painstaking and often perplexing task that ultimately illuminates our present-day reality. Through the lens of history, we can hone our critical thinking skills and gain a deeper appreciation for our cultural heritage. We must preserve our ancestors' stories, triumphs, and missteps so that future generations may learn from their experiences.
But don't worry- I'm Batman.
RUNDOWN
We need to mention rule #1 for understanding history: Historians are detectives. Much like Batman or Sherlock Holmes, historian look at the crime scene (in this case, the historical event) look for clues (in this case, books or archaeological sites), interview witnesses (in this case, secondary or primary sources) and interpret the findings to determine what happened. Much like an actual crime scene, the investigator must rely on what they have in front of them. Missing pieces always happen, but it's the goal of the historian to fill in the blank spaces with what his or her 'gut" tells them. Or they go to their utility belt of previous knowledge to help determine the most likely outcomes. This becomes rather difficult the further we get from the time frame of the crime, or what is referred to as a "cold case." Scents get thrown off; memory gets muddled. The picture becomes murkier as time slips from our grasp.
In a 2022 Observer article, writer Rory Carroll dives into Irish historian Tom Reilly. Reilly has been ridiculed, condemned, and strong-armed with death for waging a one-person crusade to rehabilitate Oliver Cromwell, the most prominent evildoer in Ireland's history. He has spent three decades trying to persuade his companions that Oliver Cromwell, the 17th-century English conqueror, was moral, honorable, and not a murderer. For those uninitiated, Cromwell was an English politician and military officer widely considered one of the most crucial politicians in English history. He came to stature during the 1640s, first as a senior army commander and then as a politician. Cromwell stays extremely contentious in Britain and Ireland due to his use of the military first to obtain, then maintain, political power and the savagery of his 1649 Irish campaign.
The lengthy, bloodstained method of occupying Ireland generated – directly or indirectly – the demises of such a vast section of the population that the word 'genocide' has even been used. It altered the course of history, leading to stormy ties with England for centuries. Reilly, who has spent 30 years reviewing primary sources, does not deny the widespread bloodshed or infamous components. Nevertheless, he says Cromwell's troops spared civilians and exterminated solely enemy combatants – some in battle, most after they had yielded, a cruel policy but in keeping with the era's code of war. Reilly says Irish history books conflate executed soldiers with "inhabitants," suggesting they were civilians.
Where does he come from with this authority? A lot of detective work is implicated in this century-year-old cold case. Pulling on new material and salvaged original texts, Reilly can re-establish Cromwell's (what he calls) "authentic voice." Is he wrong? Is he right? That is not the pertinent question here. What we should be asking is, does he have enough evidence to create a case? Why do I mention this? Remember that as we dive into the world of "pre-history" we don't have all the answers, and never will.
Comparisons between historians and detectives are not unfounded. The work of both professions requires sifting through fragments of information to construct a coherent and truthful narrative. Historians, just like detectives, are tasked with examining past events, interpreting the clues that remain, and weaving them together to create a rich tapestry of history. But the task of the historian goes beyond mere fact-finding. Instead, it involves interpreting and analyzing evidence to understand the complexities of human experience. History is not simply a collection of dates and names; it is a story of people and their struggles, triumphs, and tragedies. A skilled historian can excavate the hidden stories of those silenced or ignored by dominant narratives, revealing the nuances of history that are often overlooked.
In our current world, where misinformation and half-truths run rampant, studying history in this way is more critical than ever. Only by understanding the past can we comprehend the present and shape the future. As Howard Zinn famously noted, "You can't be neutral on a moving train." By studying history critically, we can recognize the biases and agendas that shape our understanding of the world and work towards a more just and equitable future. Do you know how detectives and historians are alike? They both have to gather evidence that it's going out of style. Detectives collect all kinds of clues from crime scenes and interviews with witnesses, trying to build a case against some poor sap. Historians, they're similar, you know. They gather evidence from here, there, and everywhere to assemble the past. They use primary sources like diaries, letters, and official records and secondary sources like smarty-pants articles and books. But let me tell you, they can't just take everything at face value. They must give every source a good once-over, ensuring it's credible and relevant to their research.
If one thing angers my adrenaline, it's uncovering the truth behind a scandal. Take the Watergate scandal in the '70s, for example. Historians and journalists had their work cut out for them as they sifted through a mountain of evidence to unravel the mess at the Democratic National Committee headquarters. The stakes were high, and the mystery was thick. These folks relied on every tool in the toolbox: confidential sources, government documents, and witness testimony all played a role in piecing together the twisted tale of political intrigue that led to President Richard Nixon's downfall. And let me tell you, and it was a challenging feat. Every detail had to be carefully evaluated, and every scrap of evidence scrutinized.
But in the end, these dedicated historians were able to construct a detailed and accurate account of what went down. It's the kind of work that makes my heart race and my palms sweat – the thrill of the chase, the satisfaction of uncovering the truth. There's nothing quite like it. Consider this: what do historians and detectives have in common? Sure, you might immediately think of their mutual love for trench coats and magnifying glasses, but there's more to it than that. Both professions are fundamentally tasked with interpreting evidence, but the key difference lies in the period. Detectives use their expertise in criminal behavior to decipher the evidence they've gathered and make calculated judgments. On the other hand, historians utilize their knowledge of past events to interpret evidence and arrive at informed conclusions about the historical record. It's not just about the facts themselves; it's about what those facts can tell us about the human experience across time.
We're talking about the Big One, the War to End All Wars, the OG World War, baby. Historians have been digging deep, sifting through diplomatic chit-chat, military intel, and the innermost thoughts of the players involved, all in an attempt to crack the case on what sparked this global conflagration. Some folks say it was all about the Krauts and the Austrians getting too big for their britches, flexing their muscles, and throwing their weight around like a few drunken bar brawlers. But others take a step back, see the bigger picture, and say no; this thing was brewing for a long time, thanks to the tangled web of alliances and the never-ending arms race.
And how do these historians make sense of it all? Using their deep knowledge of the past to interpret the evidence to uncover the hidden motivations and the complex dynamics at play. It isn't always pretty, and it sure ain't simple, but in the end, we get a more nuanced understanding of how the world turned upside down. See, it isn't just about knowing what happened in the past; it's about seeing how it all ties into the present, giving us some damn context for what's happening now. When we look back at what went down, we can start to get a grip on where all these problems we're dealing with today came from and what we can do to fix them.
Take the Civil Rights Movement, for instance. We all know it was a game-changer, a moment that shook the very foundations of America. But it isn't just some old news. It's still relevant as hell today. By digging into that history, we can start to see the roots of the ongoing fight for racial justice in this country. And that isn't just some academic exercise. It's about figuring out how we can move forward and make things right. In examining history through this lens, we uncover a crucial benefit - the cultivation of critical thinking abilities. Discerning evidence and formulating informed interpretations foster a set of proficiencies that prove invaluable across various fields. Amongst these proficiencies lie the aptitude to scrutinize sources, detect partiality, and arrive at well-reasoned resolutions despite insufficiencies in information.
Delving into history aids us in safeguarding our cultural lineage. By chronicling yesteryears, we guarantee that future cohorts shall possess a copious and eclectic narrative of human existence. If not for historians sleuthing away to unearth and construe evidence, much of this saga would fade into obscurity. Like a gumshoe, a historian must gather and decipher clues to create a coherent narrative of bygone eras. It's a painstaking and often perplexing task that ultimately illuminates our present-day reality. Through the lens of history, we can hone our critical thinking skills and gain a deeper appreciation for our cultural heritage. We must preserve our ancestors' stories, triumphs, and missteps so that future generations may learn from their experiences.
But don't worry- I'm Batman.
RUNDOWN
- Historians are like detectives; they use clues to understand past events and interpret findings to determine what happened.
- Irish historian Tom Reilly spent 30 years trying to rehabilitate Oliver Cromwell, a controversial figure in Irish history, by reviewing primary sources and establishing his "authentic voice."
- Reilly claims that Irish history books wrongly suggest that Cromwell's troops killed civilians while they only killed enemy combatants who had yielded.
- Historians are essential because they excavate hidden stories and understand the complexities of human experience, helping us to shape the future by learning from the past.
- Historians and detectives gather evidence to build a case, and historians must evaluate sources to ensure they are credible and relevant.
- Historians and journalists worked together to uncover the Watergate scandal in the 1970s, using confidential sources, government documents, and witness testimony to piece together a twisted tale of political intrigue.
STATE OF THE UNION
HIGHLIGHTS
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We've got some fine classroom lectures coming your way, all courtesy of the RPTM podcast. These lectures will take you on a wild ride through history, exploring everything from ancient civilizations and epic battles to scientific breakthroughs and artistic revolutions. The podcast will guide you through each lecture with its no-nonsense, straight-talking style, using various sources to give you the lowdown on each topic. You won't find any fancy-pants jargon or convoluted theories here, just plain and straightforward explanations anyone can understand. So sit back and prepare to soak up some knowledge.
LECTURES
LECTURES
- COMING SOON
READING
Carnes, Chapter 15: Reconstruction and the South
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Carnes, Mark C., and John A. Garraty. American Destiny: Narrative of a Nation. 4th ed. Vol. 2.: Pearson, 2011.
Mark C. Carnes and John A. Garraty are respected historians who have made notable contributions to American history. Carnes specializes in American education and culture, focusing on the role of secret societies in shaping American culture in the 19th century. Garraty is known for his general surveys of American history, his biographies of American historical figures and studies of specific aspects of American history, and his clear and accessible writing.
Carnes, Chapter 15: Reconstruction and the South
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Carnes, Mark C., and John A. Garraty. American Destiny: Narrative of a Nation. 4th ed. Vol. 2.: Pearson, 2011.
Mark C. Carnes and John A. Garraty are respected historians who have made notable contributions to American history. Carnes specializes in American education and culture, focusing on the role of secret societies in shaping American culture in the 19th century. Garraty is known for his general surveys of American history, his biographies of American historical figures and studies of specific aspects of American history, and his clear and accessible writing.
Howard Zinn was a historian, writer, and political activist known for his critical analysis of American history. He is particularly well-known for his counter-narrative to traditional American history accounts and highlights marginalized groups' experiences and perspectives. Zinn's work is often associated with social history and is known for his Marxist and socialist views. Larry Schweikart is also a historian, but his work and perspective are often considered more conservative. Schweikart's work is often associated with military history, and he is known for his support of free-market economics and limited government. Overall, Zinn and Schweikart have different perspectives on various historical issues and events and may interpret historical events and phenomena differently. Occasionally, we will also look at Thaddeus Russell, a historian, author, and academic. Russell has written extensively on the history of social and cultural change, and his work focuses on how marginalized and oppressed groups have challenged and transformed mainstream culture. Russell is known for his unconventional and controversial ideas, and his work has been praised for its originality and provocative nature.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules. You can access the full text of People's History or Patriot's History by clicking on the links.
Howard Zinn, A People's History of the United States
"...The labor movement of the late nineteenth century was a response to the harsh conditions of industrial capitalism. Workers, often immigrants, worked long hours for low wages in dangerous and unhealthy factories. They organized unions to demand better treatment and to bargain for higher wages and better working conditions..."
"...The labor movement faced significant resistance from employers, who often used violence and intimidation to prevent workers from organizing. In the 1880s, the Knights of Labor, one of the largest and most influential labor organizations of the time, faced a series of setbacks as employers used the courts and the government to suppress its activities..."
"...Despite these challenges, the labor movement of the 1880s made significant strides in improving the lives of workers. Through strikes and other forms of collective action, workers were able to win better wages and working conditions, and they helped to establish the principle of collective bargaining, which remains an important part of the American labor movement today..."
"...The labor movement of the 1880s also played a crucial role in the broader struggle for social justice in the United States. Through their activism, workers helped to bring about important reforms, such as the eight-hour workday and the prohibition of child labor, which helped to improve the lives of millions of Americans..."
"...The labor movement of the late nineteenth century was a response to the harsh conditions of industrial capitalism. Workers, often immigrants, worked long hours for low wages in dangerous and unhealthy factories. They organized unions to demand better treatment and to bargain for higher wages and better working conditions..."
"...The labor movement faced significant resistance from employers, who often used violence and intimidation to prevent workers from organizing. In the 1880s, the Knights of Labor, one of the largest and most influential labor organizations of the time, faced a series of setbacks as employers used the courts and the government to suppress its activities..."
"...Despite these challenges, the labor movement of the 1880s made significant strides in improving the lives of workers. Through strikes and other forms of collective action, workers were able to win better wages and working conditions, and they helped to establish the principle of collective bargaining, which remains an important part of the American labor movement today..."
"...The labor movement of the 1880s also played a crucial role in the broader struggle for social justice in the United States. Through their activism, workers helped to bring about important reforms, such as the eight-hour workday and the prohibition of child labor, which helped to improve the lives of millions of Americans..."
Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
"...Miners, farmers, and laborers alike grew discontented in the late nineteenth century, often for different reasons. In mining, fishing, logging, and sawmill towns, capitalism’s creative destruction process caused tumultuous change, with economic panics causing unemployment rates to twice rise as high as 30 percent. Wage earners complained of low salaries and dangerous working conditions, which led to the formation of labor unions, not a few of which were steeped in violence and socialism...
...As in all emerging capitalist economies, the first generation of industrial laborers bore the brunt of rapid change. They worked, on average, sixty hours per week, with skilled laborers earning twenty cents an hour while unskilled earned half that, although these numbers could vary widely depending on industry and region...
...An early response to the issue of low wages came from the Knights of Labor, an organization originally formed in Philadelphia in 1869, which moved west in the 1880s. The Knights sought equity in the workplace, but only for white workers; they were noted for their opposition to Chinese and African American workers. Chinese worked for wages below those Knights of Labor demanded and so the Knights, shouting, “The Chinese Must Go!” violently expelled the entire Chinese population (seven hundred) of Tacoma, Washington, in November of 1885..."
"...Miners, farmers, and laborers alike grew discontented in the late nineteenth century, often for different reasons. In mining, fishing, logging, and sawmill towns, capitalism’s creative destruction process caused tumultuous change, with economic panics causing unemployment rates to twice rise as high as 30 percent. Wage earners complained of low salaries and dangerous working conditions, which led to the formation of labor unions, not a few of which were steeped in violence and socialism...
...As in all emerging capitalist economies, the first generation of industrial laborers bore the brunt of rapid change. They worked, on average, sixty hours per week, with skilled laborers earning twenty cents an hour while unskilled earned half that, although these numbers could vary widely depending on industry and region...
...An early response to the issue of low wages came from the Knights of Labor, an organization originally formed in Philadelphia in 1869, which moved west in the 1880s. The Knights sought equity in the workplace, but only for white workers; they were noted for their opposition to Chinese and African American workers. Chinese worked for wages below those Knights of Labor demanded and so the Knights, shouting, “The Chinese Must Go!” violently expelled the entire Chinese population (seven hundred) of Tacoma, Washington, in November of 1885..."
Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of The United States
"...The people who have been most responsible for the progress of the United States are not the ones who are celebrated in the official history books..."
"...The people who have been most responsible for the progress of the United States are not the ones who are celebrated in the official history books..."
What Does Professor Lancaster Think?
The individuals who have made the most significant contributions to the progress of the United States are different from those typically celebrated in traditional history texts. The labor movement in the United States in the late 1800s responded to the harsh conditions and low wages experienced by industrial workers, who often worked long hours in dangerous and unhealthy conditions. The movement faced resistance from employers and experienced setbacks. Still, it made significant strides in improving workers' lives by negotiating for better wages and working conditions and achieving essential reforms such as the eight-hour workday and the prohibition of child labor. The labor movement also played a vital role in the broader struggle for social justice in the United States.
Various groups in the United States, including miners, farmers, and laborers, experienced discontent due to economic instability and poor working conditions. This led to the formation of labor unions, some of which were violent and had socialist leanings. Industrial workers typically worked about 60 hours per week for low wages at the time, with skilled workers earning about 20 cents per hour and unskilled workers earning half that amount. One organization that sought to address these issues was the Knights of Labor, initially founded in Philadelphia in 1869 and later expanded westward in the 1880s. However, the Knights only advocated for the rights of white workers and were known for their opposition to Chinese and African American workers. They even expelled the entire Chinese population of Tacoma, Washington, in 1885.
There are several reasons to study the labor movement in the United States during the 1880s. The labor movement at this time responded to harsh working conditions and low wages. It played a significant role in shaping the modern American economy and labor market. It was also part of a more powerful social and political movement that aimed to address issues of inequality and injustice, and it was an essential part of American history. Studying the labor movement of the 1880s can help us understand the origins and development of key institutions and practices that continue to shape the country today, and it can give us a deeper understanding of the forces that have shaped the United States and the challenges and triumphs of those who worked to create a better society.
The individuals who have made the most significant contributions to the progress of the United States are different from those typically celebrated in traditional history texts. The labor movement in the United States in the late 1800s responded to the harsh conditions and low wages experienced by industrial workers, who often worked long hours in dangerous and unhealthy conditions. The movement faced resistance from employers and experienced setbacks. Still, it made significant strides in improving workers' lives by negotiating for better wages and working conditions and achieving essential reforms such as the eight-hour workday and the prohibition of child labor. The labor movement also played a vital role in the broader struggle for social justice in the United States.
Various groups in the United States, including miners, farmers, and laborers, experienced discontent due to economic instability and poor working conditions. This led to the formation of labor unions, some of which were violent and had socialist leanings. Industrial workers typically worked about 60 hours per week for low wages at the time, with skilled workers earning about 20 cents per hour and unskilled workers earning half that amount. One organization that sought to address these issues was the Knights of Labor, initially founded in Philadelphia in 1869 and later expanded westward in the 1880s. However, the Knights only advocated for the rights of white workers and were known for their opposition to Chinese and African American workers. They even expelled the entire Chinese population of Tacoma, Washington, in 1885.
There are several reasons to study the labor movement in the United States during the 1880s. The labor movement at this time responded to harsh working conditions and low wages. It played a significant role in shaping the modern American economy and labor market. It was also part of a more powerful social and political movement that aimed to address issues of inequality and injustice, and it was an essential part of American history. Studying the labor movement of the 1880s can help us understand the origins and development of key institutions and practices that continue to shape the country today, and it can give us a deeper understanding of the forces that have shaped the United States and the challenges and triumphs of those who worked to create a better society.
Haymarket Affair, 1886 CE
KEY TERMS
ASSIGNMENTS
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #1
- Great Railroad Strike of 1877
- Eadweard Muybridge
- Thomas Edison's Light Bulb
- Carlisle Indian Industrial School
- Dudley Allen Sargent
- 1880s Fashion
- Arab Immigration
- James Garfield Assassinated
- Clara Barton and Red Cross
- Chinese Exclusion Act
- Tape v. Hurley
- Rock Springs Massacre
- Haymarket Riot
- Coca-Cola
- Hells Canyon Massacre
- Softball
- Dawes Act
- William Dorsey Swann
- Kodak Camera
- Kinetoscope
ASSIGNMENTS
- Forum Discussion #1
- Forum Discussion #2
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #1
This first week I would like to take it easy, and get to know you better, please answer the following question with a one paragraph minimum:
What do you like about studying history? If you don't like history, what do you think the root cause is? Remember that you will be required to reply to at least two of your classmates.
Forum Discussion #2
"Henry Ford's Innovation Nation" is a television show on CBS. The show is hosted by Mo Rocca and explores the history of innovation and the inventors who have shaped the world we live in today. The show is produced by The Henry Ford, a museum complex in Dearborn, Michigan, dedicated to American innovation and the history of technology. Each episode of "The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation with Mo Rocca" features segments on different inventions and inventors, ranging from well-known figures such as Thomas Edison and Henry Ford to lesser-known innovators who have made significant contributions to their fields. The show also explores the process of innovation and the challenges and obstacles that inventors face in bringing their ideas to fruition.
Watch this odd display (that seems to cheapen a historical event for the sake of a game show)and answer the following question:
What do you like about studying history? If you don't like history, what do you think the root cause is? Remember that you will be required to reply to at least two of your classmates.
Forum Discussion #2
"Henry Ford's Innovation Nation" is a television show on CBS. The show is hosted by Mo Rocca and explores the history of innovation and the inventors who have shaped the world we live in today. The show is produced by The Henry Ford, a museum complex in Dearborn, Michigan, dedicated to American innovation and the history of technology. Each episode of "The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation with Mo Rocca" features segments on different inventions and inventors, ranging from well-known figures such as Thomas Edison and Henry Ford to lesser-known innovators who have made significant contributions to their fields. The show also explores the process of innovation and the challenges and obstacles that inventors face in bringing their ideas to fruition.
Watch this odd display (that seems to cheapen a historical event for the sake of a game show)and answer the following question:
How did popular culture, such as vaudeville and professional sports, change and evolve in the 1880s in the United States?
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO
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