The Ghost Dance (1889 CE - 1898 CE)

Imagine a nation stretched to its limits. Ambition pushing forward on every side. While factories forced out progress with relentless energy. The 1890s didn't just mark a turning point. They were the moment America shed its old identity and dove head first into the machinery of industry. Railroads multiplied until the map was crisscrossed with lines. Cities expanded rapidly and corporate barons relaxed in velvet chairs, exhaling smoke as they profited from workers labor. Golden Age only if you started with wealth. For everyone else, days under the smoke stacks felt like taking risks in a rigged casino where the American dream was always elusive.

Prominent industrial leaders such as Rockefeller, Carnegie, Morgan, and Vanderbilt significantly shaped the economy, often dominating their markets. The Sherman Act of 1890 was enacted to regulate monopolistic practices, though its immediate impact was limited.

The robber barons were not just caricatures in the background. They helped build modern America's bridges, tracks, and the essential framework of industry. Whether you praised or condemned them, their unchecked ambition remade the map and rewrote the rules. Their real advantage was how they stacked the deck before the game even began. Free market. Imagine Monopoly, but with marked squares before the first roll.

If industry was the bonfire, workers were the fuel. Overlong shifts, dangerous machines, and inadequate wages set the stage for tension. The pressure built until it erupted. Strikes flared nationwide as workers demanded the right not to be sacrificed for pennies. The Pullman Strike of 1894 was a significant event in labor history. Railway workers affected by wage cuts and rising living costs initiated a strike. The federal government intervened with military force, ending the strike and highlighting the state's role in labor disputes.

Some claim genuine labor reform should have come from fair deals, not government force. And that sounds ideal in theory, but when your boss owns the mill, the houses, and the security, you're left bargaining for scraps at a table you can't move. Free market only if you can call chains freedom.

While cities struggled with pollution and tension, farmers in the fields suffered under corporate control. Crop prices fell, railroads set the rates, and banks quickly took over farms. The Populist Party rose up, fueled by the anger of the overlooked. Led by William Jennings Bryan, the populist movement advocated for currency reform, proposing the adoption of silver alongside gold to increase the money supply. This policy was intended to assist indebted farmers, although its potential effects were debated among economists. Bryan's public speaking elevated his influence nationally.

The 1890s also saw the legal establishment of racial segregation with the Supreme Court's Plessy v. Ferguson decision in 1896, which upheld the doctrine of separate but equal. In practice, this decision led to significant barriers for Black Americans in the South. Racial violence, including lynching, increased during this period. The end of Reconstruction efforts was marked by a lack of federal intervention to protect vulnerable populations, demonstrating that government actions did not always support those most at risk.

Journalism underwent a transformation as newspaper publishers such as Hearst and Pulitzer employed sensationalism. Their approach significantly influenced public perception and opinion. During the Spanish-American War of 1898, the press played a key role. Americans, stirred into outrage over the USS Maine, which was likely lost to an accident, soon called for war. “Remember the Maine, to hell with Spain” became the cry, and the nation entered its first major overseas conflict.

Patterns set in this era echo today. Economic divides, labor rights debates, populist anger, and sensational journalism continue. Just turn on the television. The 1890s represented a pivotal and challenging era marked by significant social and economic conflict. The period offers enduring lessons suggesting that historical patterns often recur.

THE RUNDOWN

The 1890s opened with explosive industrial growth as monopolies like Rockefeller’s and Carnegie’s crushed small businesses while workers struggled in an unfair economy.
The Sherman Antitrust Act (1890) offered little restraint, as industrialists continued shaping modern America while stifling real competition.
Harsh labor conditions and low wages led to major strikes such as the 1894 Pullman Strike, where federal troops sided with big business to crush labor unrest.
Farmers, crushed by low crop prices and unfair railroad fees, rallied behind the Populist Party and William Jennings Bryan’s 1896 “free silver” campaign to relieve debt.
The Supreme Court’s Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) ruling legalized segregation, fueling Jim Crow laws, racial violence, and voter suppression across the South.
Sensationalist journalism from Hearst and Pulitzer exaggerated events, shaping public opinion and helping ignite the 1898 Spanish-American War—an early case of media-driven conflict.

QUESTIONS

Writers like Mark Twain and artists from the Ashcan School went against the norm in the 1890s. How did their work show rebellion, and do we see similar rebellion in today's books and art?
What happened in the 1890s shaped how America is today. How did the things that happened during that time affect the country in the long run?
The discussion said the 1890s can help us understand today's challenges. How can the issues people faced in the 1890s guide us in dealing with the problems we have today?

#2 History is Constantly Changing

There is a common myth that lingers within the historical community. Every year, I ask my students whether they enjoy history or not. Generally, I get a good mix of enjoyment juxtaposed with physical anguish. If I press further and see WHY they hate studying history, the overwhelming answer is that history never changes. It's boring. I am here to put that baby to bed with rule number two of history: History is constantly changing. If we were to receive all our information from a textbook written 30 years ago, then yes, history doesn't change. But as we discover more artifacts buried in the mountains or invite more perspectives to the table (much like the 1619 Project), the account becomes more elastic.

History is always changing because new information and perspectives are constantly being discovered and added to our understanding of the past. Our knowledge of history can change as we learn more about the past through discovering new sources and reinterpreting existing ones. Several factors contribute to the changing nature of history. One is the availability of new sources. As historians uncover new primary sources, such as documents, artifacts, and other materials, they can add further information and perspectives to our understanding of the past. This can sometimes lead to a reinterpretation of previously accepted historical narratives. For example, recent research has revealed that the ancient Maya civilization was much more sophisticated and technologically advanced than previously thought.

Another factor contributing to the changing nature of history is the shifting nature of historical interpretation. As historians bring new perspectives and theoretical frameworks to the study of the past, they may reinterpret existing sources in new ways, leading to new understandings of historical events and trends. For example, recent evidence has revealed the extent of Soviet involvement in WWII and the role that Stalin played in shaping the outcome of the conflict. Finally, the changing nature of history can also be influenced by societal values and priorities shifts. As society changes, so do historians' questions about the past and how they interpret and understand it. For example, recent research has revealed the significant role that African Americans and women played in the American Revolution, challenging the traditional narrative of the revolution as a primarily white, male-led event.

History has twists and turns like a river as we uncover new information and view past events through different lenses. Today, the study of history is more important than ever. By understanding the past, we can glean important lessons and avoid repeating the same mistakes. In the ever-changing tapestry of time, the past is forever in flux—the lens of our present colors our understanding of what went down before we arrived. Take colonialism, for example. Back in the day, it was hailed as a glorious enterprise, a civilizing mission that brought enlightenment to the benighted heathens. But we now view it through a darker lens, as a force that trampled upon and exploited the people it claimed to uplift. It just shows what we think we know is always subject to change.

History can constantly evolve and change based on new information and available sources. Take the Dead Sea Scrolls, for example. In the mid-20th century, these ancient manuscripts were discovered, and suddenly, everything we thought we knew about Christianity and Judaism's origins was questioned. It turned out that these religions were way more diverse and complex than we ever could have imagined. It shows that the more we learn, the more we realize how little we know. It's all subjective. Biases and prejudices can creep in and warp the way we see things. Take historical figures, for instance. One person might see Winston Churchill as a hero, a champion who saved Britain from certain doom in the Second World War. But someone else, well, they might see him as a racist imperialist who imposed his will on India and caused untold suffering. It's all a matter of perspective. The truth exists, but we must sift through the propaganda and find it.

If you want to know where you came from and what kind of mess we're in now, you must study history. It isn't just about memorizing dates and names; it's about learning from our mistakes so we don't have to keep repeating them. Take the Holocaust, for instance. That's some heavy shit, but it taught us a thing or two about the dangers of being intolerant and extreme. Now, we have a better handle on human rights and equality, which is worth fighting for.

It is essential to recognize that history serves as a vital tool for comprehending the intricate workings of our world and how various societies and cultures have intersected throughout history. By examining the Silk Road trade routes, we can gain a deeper insight into the historical ties between Asia, Europe, and Africa and how these ties impacted the evolution of distinct societies. History is a shape-shifting beast, ever-morphing with each discovery, shift in perspective, and subjective interpretation. But fear not, for studying history is as crucial now as ever. Through the lens of the past, we can gain valuable insights that help us navigate the present and avoid repeating the same old mistakes. By peering into the annals of history, we can also gain a greater appreciation for our place in this world and a deeper understanding of the intricate workings of human society.

Overall, the changing nature of history is a testament to the ongoing process of historical inquiry and the human desire to understand the past better.

RUNDOWN

Many think history is boring and unchanging, but this is a myth.
History is dynamic, continuously changing with new information, perspectives, and interpretations.
New sources, shifting historical interpretations, and societal changes contribute to the evolving nature of history.
Recent findings reveal the sophistication of the ancient Maya civilization, challenging previous notions.
History is subjective, influenced by biases and perspectives, evident in varying views of figures like Winston Churchill.
Studying history is essential for learning from mistakes, understanding human societies, and gaining insights to navigate the present.

STATE OF THE UNION

In the madcap year of 1889, the world was a ragtag stage of imperial antics and electric wonders. The Eiffel Tower, a brazen 1,000-foot metallic spike, pierced the Parisian sky, scandalizing the old and exhilarating the modern-minded, serving as the gateway to the Exposition Universelle, where the globe’s gaudiest glories were paraded. Across the pond, the wild lands of Oklahoma were cracked open like a loot-filled piñata, with thousands of crazed land grabbers charging the prairies in a frenzied rush. Empires shuffled and flexed in smoky backrooms, carving up the world with a swagger. At the same time, in the shadows, Vincent van Gogh, that mad conjurer of color, splattered his canvas with starry nights and sunflowers, blissfully indifferent to a world hurtling towards a new century’s chaotic dawn.

HIGHLIGHTS

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

COMING SOON

Module Two Lecture Notes

The Reading section—a realm where our aspirations of enlightenment often clash with the harsh realities of procrastination and the desperate reliance on Google. We soldier on through dense texts, promised 'broadening perspectives' but often wrestling with existential dread and academic pressure. With a healthy dose of sarcasm and a strong cup of coffee, I'll be your guide on this wild journey from dusty tomes to the murky depths of postmodernism. In the midst of all the pretentious prose, there's a glimmer of insight: we're all in this together, united in our struggle to survive without losing our sanity.

READING

Brinkley Chapter 18: The Age of the City

This class utilizes the following textbook:
Brinkley, Alan, John M. Giggie, and Andrew J. Huebner. The Unfinished Nation: A Concise History of the American People. 10th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2022.

Alan Brinkley, a profound intellectual force in history, is the kind of professor who delves deep into the fabric of American politics. A bestselling author and former provost at Columbia, Brinkley's books are not just academic exercises but profound explorations into the New Deal, the Great Depression, and the American dream. From the Ivy League to Oxford, this man has immersed himself in history, unearthing the truth with a precision that cuts through the fog of political rhetoric. Brinkley's academic career is a beacon of knowledge, illuminating the darkest corners of history.

And then there is John M. Giggie, a Southern history powerhouse who plunges into the weighty past of the Civil Rights Movement, lynching, and race in the Deep South. With a PhD from Princeton, he is the kind of scholar who does not just teach about the past—he compels you to grapple with it, to confront the violence and memory that still haunt the American South. His courses are not leisurely walks through history; they are potent reminders, grenades hurled at anyone too comfortable with the sanitized version of the past. Meanwhile, Andrew Huebner, a man who blends war, culture, and American identity like a potent cocktail, is in his intellectual trench, unpacking the harsh realities of war's impact on society. Huebner exposes the painful wounds of American history, dissecting everything from the brutality of WWI to the emotional scars that still linger. Together, these three scholars are not just documenting history—they are forcing us to confront it, heavy and unvarnished, in the modern world.

RUNDOWN

The chapter shows how American cities grew rapidly around 1900 as immigrants and rural migrants came looking for jobs, turning cities into active hubs of society and industry.
Highlighting key technological breakthroughs, it mentions how electric streetcars, skyscrapers, and telephones expanded cities, increased population density, and changed daily urban life.
The text explains how issues like overcrowded housing, poverty, and poor sanitation led to public health reforms, new housing laws, and city planning changes.
Discussing new cultural trends, it shows how vaudeville, early films, and sports brought people together, and how new art, music, and literature thrived in these lively cities.
The chapter looks at city politics, describing how powerful political groups controlled cities, while reformers pushed for better regulations, services, and fair work conditions.
It covers how ethnic groups created unique community identities within cities, where big differences in wealth drove labor movements and collective actions that influenced modern American cities.

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.

Howard Zinn, A Peoples History of the United States
"...It was a time, as election times have often been in the United States, to consolidate the system after years of protest and rebellion. The black was being kept under control in the South. The Indian was being driven off the western plains for good; on a cold winter day in 1890, U.S. army soldiers attacked Indians camped at Wounded Knee, South Dakota, and killed three hundred men, women, and children. It was the climax to four hundred years of violence that began with Columbus, establishing that this continent belonged to white men. But only to certain white men, because it was clear by 1896 that the state stood ready to crush labor strikes, by the law if possible, by force if necessary. And where a threatening mass movement developed, the two-party system stood ready to send out one of its columns to surround that movement and drain it of vitality...

... The year of the massacre at Wounded Knee, 1890, it was officially declared by the Bureau of the Census that the internal frontier was closed. The profit system, with its natural tendency for expansion, had already begun to look overseas. The severe depression that began in 1893 strengthened an idea developing within the political and financial elite of the country: that overseas markets for American goods might relieve the problem of underconsumption at home and prevent the economic crises that in the 1890s brought class war..."

Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
"...On December 29, 1890, troops bungled their attempt to disarm the Sioux at Wounded Knee, site of the Sioux Reservation in South Dakota. In subzero temperatures shooting broke out, although both white and Indian witnesses disagreed over who started the firing. Popularly viewed as a cold-blooded massacre—some 200 Sioux men, women, and children lay dead in the snow—the army lost 25 killed and 39 wounded. But it is certain that the Indians did not deliberately provoke a fight, since they could see they were surrounded by troops and artillery. Although Wounded Knee marked another dark episode in Indian-white relations, the government had already concluded that the reservation system was not working, leading to yet another direction in American Indian policy..."

Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of the United States
"...So once in America, where they had the opportunity to create a perfect world, the Puritans set out to lock bodily movements to the rules of God. In 1635 John Cotton, one of the principal ministers of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, declared that the new land should forbid 'lascivious dancing to wanton ditties, and amorous gestures and wanton dalliances . . . [which] would bear witness against as a great [fanning of sexual desire]? In that same year Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island, saw in the dances of the Indians a near and dangerous temptation, 'for after once being in their Houses, and beholding what their worship was, I durst never be an eye witness . . . [lest] I should have been partaker of Satan's inventions and worships...'

...Early in their adventure, the Puritan pilgrims had to deal with what was perhaps the most renegade act in American history. In 1625 an Englishman named Thomas Morton organized a non-Puritan settlement, Merrymount, north of Plymouth at the present site of Quincy, Massachusetts. By many accounts, Merrymount was everything the Puritans feared. Whiskey and beer flowed freely, and whites and Indians cavorted, copulated, and danced wildly around a maypole, a Pagan invention that had become the symbol of fun and leisure in villages across England..."

What Does Professor Lancaster Think?
Once upon a time, in the untamed expanses of the American West, where the atmosphere possessed a purity akin to a freshly printed dollar bill, and the ethical bearings were as convoluted as a carnival pretzel, a group of Puritans opted to infuse zest into their religious pursuits. They embarked on a precarious journey aboard a weathered vessel, sailing toward the New World. They were propelled by the notion that true 'freedom' lay in traversing an ocean to dictate others' lifestyles.

These Puritans, armed with the Bible in one hand and a catalog of prohibitions in the other, alighted upon an inhabited land. The ensuing cultural clash resembled attempting to share a room with an overly exuberant cousin during Thanksgiving—an encounter fraught with challenges.

John Cotton, a Puritan proclivity for dampening merriment, sought to enliven the scene by proscribing any dance move hinting at enjoyment. Picture him at a tribal gathering, rhythmically expressing disapproval as Native Americans endeavored to dance their way toward spiritual enlightenment. Meanwhile, rebels like Roger Williams and Thomas Morton may have been sharing a peace pipe with the locals, contemplating, "Enough of this; let's embrace Merrymount."

As time progressed, these European settlers engaged in a land-based version of Monopoly, where the stakes were elevated, and the losers faced not mere bankruptcy but mortality. Land disputes evolved into a Wild West rendition of a real estate reality show, with Native Americans gradually voted off their land, one smallpox-infected blanket at a time.

In the 19th century, they ushered in dubious government initiatives such as the Indian Removal Act, reminiscent of a disgruntled roommate attempting eviction. "Centuries of residence here are passé; time to relocate," declared the U.S. government. The Trail of Tears unfolded, where tears were shed, but not by those deserving them. Reservations emerged—akin to an involuntary commitment to the chef's special at a less-than-appealing restaurant. Adding intrigue, the Wounded Knee massacre became a poignant chapter in American history.

One might question the relevance of this historical saga. The answer lies in history's persistent echo, akin to the enduring scent of a regrettable burrito. The repercussions of these events reverberate today, evident in health disparities, socioeconomic challenges, and the cultural tenacity of Native American communities.

Consider the Dawes Act—a governmental attempt to rectify matters by allocating individual land plots. Yet, unsurprisingly, it exacerbated the situation. It mirrored attempting to mend a leaky boat with a band-aid—covering the breach but failing to ensure buoyancy.

Thus, we find ourselves amid a historical drama, where tragic plot twists, flawed characters, and a puzzled audience define the narrative. It serves as a reminder that the journey toward progress is paved with the potholes of the past. Let's acknowledge this mire, initiate cleanup, and strive for a future marked by inclusivity, justice, and, perhaps, a touch less Puritanical severity.

THE RUNDOWN

Seeking a new life, the Puritans left Europe's chaos to create a strict theocracy in the New World, ready to enforce their values on the native people.
Landing where Indigenous peoples already lived, they sparked conflicts with their strict beliefs and actions, setting the stage for ongoing cultural clashes.
Leaders like John Cotton banned any form of light-hearted dance, while others like Roger Williams and Thomas Morton welcomed Native traditions and social freedoms.
Over time, settlers pushed Native Americans off their land through dishonest treaties, disease, and expansion, seizing vast areas for themselves.
By the 1800s, policies like the Indian Removal Act forced Native Americans from their homes, leading to tragedies like the Trail of Tears and the Wounded Knee massacre.
Later efforts to make amends, such as the Dawes Act, failed, leaving a legacy of inequality and urging today's society to pursue fairness and break from past oppressions.

QUESTIONS

Explain how the settlers' desire for land was like a Monopoly game. How did this lead to the idea of Manifest Destiny, and what problems did it cause for Native Americans? Can you find similar situations in other parts of the world in history?
Look at the Indian Removal Act and the Dawes Act. How did the government try to solve problems, and what unintended results happened for Native Americans? Can you think of other times when government actions caused more problems than they solved?
Talk about how the problems from history, like health differences and challenges for Native American communities, still affect us today. Can you find similar issues in today's world, and how are they connected to the past?

The USS Maine explodes in Cuba's Havana Harbor

Prepare to be transported into the captivating realm of historical films and videos. Brace yourselves for a mind-bending odyssey through time as we embark on a cinematic expedition. Within these flickering frames, the past morphs into a vivid tapestry of triumphs, tragedies, and transformative moments that have shaped the very fabric of our existence. We shall immerse ourselves in a whirlwind of visual narratives, dissecting the nuances of artistic interpretations, examining the storytelling techniques, and voraciously devouring historical accuracy with the ferocity of a time-traveling historian. So strap in, hold tight, and prepare to have your perception of history forever shattered by the mesmerizing lens of the camera.

WATCH
The Great War: The Spanish-American War (2025)

The Rundown
In the complex unfolding of history, the Spanish-American War burst forth like a vivid daydream, casting Cuba as the central protagonist entangled in tales of Spanish atrocities. President McKinley, navigating the precarious waters of imperialism, sought Congress's approval for a war that blended elements of modern dating apps with the thunderous impact of cannonball salvos. Sensationalist journalism fueled the fire, turning the conflict into a tabloid-worthy saga. At the same time, the sinking of the U.S.S. Maine in Havana Harbor introduced a dramatic twist reminiscent of the Titanic. Teddy Roosevelt entered the scene with his iconic mustache and Rough Riders, transforming Cuba into his conquest. Congressional debates mirrored a raucous barroom brawl reflecting the nation's internal discord over war aims and preparedness.

However, the narrative extended beyond the Caribbean to the overlooked subplot in the Philippines. The U.S. acquired new territories through negotiation and forceful diplomacy, setting the stage for the Philippine-American War—a complex game of guerrilla tactics. The subsequent peace treaty, signed in December, brought unintended consequences, with the U.S. waking up to find Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines in its geopolitical bed. This aftermath included delicate considerations for Cuban independence, fifty years of American governance in the Philippines, and Spain's hasty exit from the global stage. The United States, now exuding newfound confidence, marked the beginning of the American Empire's grand performance on the world stage. In this narrative, Uncle Sam, equipped with tap shoes, delicately danced on the fine line between interventionism and historical theatrics.

Welcome to the mind-bending Key Terms extravaganza of our history class learning module. Brace yourselves; we will unravel the cryptic codes, secret handshakes, and linguistic labyrinths that make up the twisted tapestry of historical knowledge. These key terms are the Rosetta Stones of our academic journey, the skeleton keys to unlocking the enigmatic doors of comprehension. They're like historical Swiss Army knives, equipped with blades of definition and corkscrews of contextual examples, ready to pierce through the fog of confusion and liberate your intellectual curiosity. By harnessing the power 6464of these mighty key terms, you'll possess the superhuman ability to traverse the treacherous terrains of primary sources, surf the tumultuous waves of academic texts, and engage in epic battles of historical debate. The past awaits, and the key terms are keys to unlocking its dazzling secrets.

DISCLAIMER: Welcome scholars to the wild and wacky world of history class. This isn't your granddaddy's boring ol' lecture, baby. We will take a trip through time, which will be one wild ride. I know some of you are in a brick-and-mortar setting, while others are in the vast digital wasteland. But fear not; we're all in this together. Online students might miss out on some in-person interaction, but you can still join in on the fun. This little shindig aims to get you all engaged with the course material and understand how past societies have shaped the world we know today. We'll talk about revolutions, wars, and other crazy stuff. So get ready, kids, because it's going to be one heck of a trip. And for all, you online students out there, don't be shy. Please share your thoughts and ideas with the rest of us. The Professor will do his best to give everyone an equal opportunity to learn, so don't hold back. So, let's do this thing!

Activity #1: The Toliet Paper Adventure
Objective: The goal of "The Toilet Paper Adventure" is to learn about the fascinating history of toilet paper and its impact on hygiene, health, and society while having fun.

Instructions:

Read each question carefully as it appears at the top of the game.
Choose the answer you think is correct from the options provided.
If your answer is correct, you'll earn a point and move to the next round. If your answer is incorrect, don't worry—you’ll still move forward to the next question.
After completing all 10 rounds, your final score will be displayed.
To play again and improve your score, click the "Reset Game" button at the end of the game.

Have fun learning about one of the most unexpected and essential inventions of modern history—good luck!

Toilet Paper Adventure

The Toilet Paper Adventure

Learn about the 1890s invention that changed hygiene forever!

Activity #2: Quest for Global Influence
Objective: Step into the year 1898 and take on the role of a decision-maker during the Spanish-American War. Your goal is to navigate through 3 rounds of choices that will test your understanding of the events and challenges of this pivotal moment in history. Make the right decisions to score high and learn how your choices could have influenced the course of history!

Instructions:

Read each scenario carefully. Each question represents a key moment during the Spanish-American War.
Choose from two possible actions by clicking on the button that best matches your decision.
After each choice, you'll receive feedback on whether your decision was historically accurate and why.
Continue through all 3 rounds to complete your mission.
At the end of the game, your score will reflect how well you guided history.
Want to try again or improve your score? Click the restart button to replay the game.

Remember, every decision matters. Can you guide the United States through this turning point in history? Good luck!

1898 Spanish-American War Adventure

Welcome to your mission! Are you ready to rewrite history? Let's begin!

Ladies and gentlemen, gather 'round for the pièce de résistance of this classroom module - the summary section. As we embark on this tantalizing journey, we'll savor the exquisite flavors of knowledge, highlighting the fundamental ingredients and spices that have seasoned our minds throughout these captivating lessons. Prepare to indulge in a savory recap that will leave your intellectual taste buds tingling, serving as a passport to further enlightenment.

The 1890s was an era resembling a nation in the throes of adolescence—undergoing tumultuous growth, mood fluctuations, and challenging authority. Enter the Gilded Age, a euphemistic expression for an era where surface brilliance concealed more blemishes than a politician's unfulfilled pledges. Witness an economic metamorphosis! The United States assumed the role of an excessively robust startup, ascending the global economic hierarchy at an accelerated pace. Factories burgeoned like fungi after rainfall, offering employment to those willing to exchange their integrity for a meager wage. Urban areas buzzed with the cacophony of machinery, the scent of progress, and occasional outcries from laborers introduced to the hazards of industrial mishaps.

Let's not overlook the political spectacle. Major corporations and monopolies were the popular cliques, leveraging their influence to manipulate politicians, who danced like puppets on strings woven from campaign contributions. Teddy Roosevelt, the original antitrust advocate, rode in like a cowboy determined to restore order to the unruly West of capitalism. Picture him astride a horse, brandishing a substantial stick and bellowing, "Speak quietly and wield a formidable stick, or prepare for regulatory intervention!" Cities resembled gatherings of diverse individuals. Disillusioned with corsets and societal expectations, women opted to assert themselves and make a mark. Social reform movements emerged, like trendy coffee shops, addressing child labor, education, and healthcare concerns. It was a cultural rebirth, not solely due to Mark Twain's provocative literary contributions.

Speaking of Twain, he reigned as the literary scene's rock star. "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" echoed worldwide, challenging societal conventions and prompting contemplation on whether the Mississippi River held significance beyond being a tranquil route for steamboats. We still grapple with economic disparities, corporate dominance, and societal divides. It's akin to being ensnared in a temporal loop, with history incessantly hitting the replay button. Workers persist in battling for their rights, politicians maintain alliances with corporate giants, and we're still navigating the intricacies of treating one another with basic humanity.

So, as we raise our glasses to the 1890s, let's acknowledge that while circumstances evolve, certain aspects endure. The struggle persists, but so does the absurdity of it all. Here's to aspiring that in the extensive canvas of history, we can craft a future that's less adorned and more authentic.

Or, in other words:

The 1890s were a turbulent time in America, with the Gilded Age's sparkle hiding deep corruption, inequality, and social unrest.
Rapid industrial growth propelled the U.S. up the global economic ranks as workers endured low pay and dangerous conditions in rapidly multiplying factories.
Cities buzzed with the sounds of assembly lines and labor protests, signaling fast economic changes and upcoming fights for worker rights.
Big corporations swayed politics with lavish donations, paving the way for Teddy Roosevelt, who tackled monopolies with his "big stick" approach.
Women stepped into public roles, fighting restrictive norms alongside movements that aimed to end child labor, improve education, and expand healthcare, inspired by Mark Twain's provocative works.
The issues of economic inequality, corporate control, and social division from the 1890s still echo today, showing the era's lasting impact.

ASSIGNMENTS

Forum Discussion #3

Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD

Forum Discussion #3
Yohuru Williams is a historian, author, and educator specializing in African American history and civil rights. He is the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Professor of History at the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota. He has written several books on topics such as the Black Panther Party, the Civil Rights Movement, and racial segregation in the United States. Williams is known for his work on the history of racial justice and has often been interviewed by media outlets as an expert on these topics.

Watch the video and answer the following question:

What were the main arguments made by both sides in the Plessy v. Ferguson case, and how did the Supreme Court ultimately rule on the constitutionality of "separate but equal" segregation laws? Do you believe the Court's decision was fair or misguided, and how has the legacy of this case impacted racial segregation and discrimination in the United States?

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THE RUNDOWN
The journey into the pages of history commences with Homer Plessy, an unsung figure courageously opposing nonsensical laws that could almost make the concept of pineapple on pizza appear rational. Picture 1890 in Louisiana, where the Separate Car Act transforms public transportation into a racially divided spectacle. Plessy firmly stands his ground, prompting legal maneuvers that deploy the "separate but equal" notion – a claim as dubious as a diet promising the delights of chocolate-covered broccoli. Enter Professor Uhuru Williams, our adept navigator through this intricate historical labyrinth, elucidating how segregating individuals in states likened to melting pots is akin to managing cats on an extraordinary substance. Abruptly, we find ourselves propelled through time to Maoist China, courtesy of Williams' masterful storytelling. The Red Guards, the pioneers of cancel culture, render Twitter disputes comparable to genteel gatherings, dispensing public humiliation, violence, and even murder as if it were communist confetti. Thus, the narrative catapults us from racially charged railroads to socio-political arenas resembling energetic mosh pits.

Hey, welcome to the work cited section! Here's where you'll find all the heavy hitters that inspired the content you've just consumed. Some might think citations are as dull as unbuttered toast, but nothing gets my intellectual juices flowing like a good reference list. Don't get me wrong, just because we've cited a source; doesn't mean we're always going to see eye-to-eye. But that's the beauty of it - it's up to you to chew on the material and come to conclusions. Listen, we've gone to great lengths to ensure these citations are accurate, but let's face it, we're all human. So, give us a holler if you notice any mistakes or suggest more sources. We're always looking to up our game. Ultimately, it's all about pursuing knowledge and truth.

Work Cited:

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Barnett, Richard. Smile Stealers: The Fine and Foul Art of Dentistry. London: Thames & Hudson, 2017.
Blumer, Ronald H. Wiped. North Charleston, SC: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2013.
Brands, H. W. American Colossus: The Triumph of Capitalism, 1865–1900. New York: Vintage, 2011.
Brown, Dee. Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee: An Indian History of the American West. Foreword by Hampton Sides. New York: Holt Paperbacks, 2007.
Brown, Peter. The World of Late Antiquity: AD 150–750. W.W. Norton & Company, 1989.
Captivating History. The Spanish-American War: A Captivating Guide to the Armed Conflict Between the United States of America and Spain That Took Place after the U.S. Intervened in the Cuban War of Independence. U.S. Military History series. 2019.
Cates, David. Plessy v. Ferguson: Segregation and the Separate but Equal Policy. Edited by Melissa York. Edina, MN: Abdo Group, 2012.
Charles River Editors. The Explosion of the USS Maine: The Controversial Event That Led to the Spanish-American War. Kindle edition. Charleston, SC: Charles River Editors, 2014.
Clerici, Paul C. Boston Marathon: History by the Mile. Charleston, SC: The History Press, 2014.
Clerici, Paul C. Boston Marathon Traditions & Lore. Charleston, SC: The History Press, 2024.
Coleman, Neil M. Johnstown's Flood of 1889: Power Over Truth and the Science Behind the Disaster. New York: Springer-Verlag, 2018.
Connelly, Frank, and George C. Jenks. Official History of the Johnstown Flood (1889). Reprint edition. Kessinger Publishing, 2009.
Crompton, Samuel Willard. The Sinking of the USS Maine: Declaring War Against Spain. Milestones in American History. Kindle edition. New York: Chelsea House Publications, 2008.
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LEGAL MUMBO JUMBO

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Module 1

HST 202

Module 3

​The Ghost Dance (1889 CE - 1898 CE)

The Toilet Paper Adventure

1898 Spanish-American War Adventure

The Ghost Dance (1889 CE - 1898 CE)