America The Story Of Us Episode 5 Worksheet Answers
Introduction
"America The Story of Us" is a documentary series that explores the history of the United States of America. It is an educational resource that is widely used in schools across the country. Episode 5 of the series focuses on the period between 1865 and 1900, which is known as the Gilded Age. In this article, we will provide answers to the worksheet questions related to this episode.
Question 1
What was the Gilded Age?
The Gilded Age was the period of time between 1865 and 1900 in the United States. It was a time of rapid economic growth, but it was also marked by widespread corruption and social inequality. The term "gilded" refers to the fact that despite the prosperity of the era, there were many underlying problems that were hidden beneath the surface.
Question 2
What was the significance of the Transcontinental Railroad?
The Transcontinental Railroad was a railway system that connected the eastern and western coasts of the United States. It was completed in 1869, and it was a significant achievement for the country. The railroad allowed for faster transportation of people and goods across the country, which helped to fuel economic growth. It also contributed to the settlement of the western United States by making it easier for people to travel there.
Question 3
What was the Homestead Act?
The Homestead Act was a law that was passed in 1862. It provided free land to people who were willing to settle in the western United States. In order to qualify for the land, people had to be at least 21 years old, and they had to be U.S. citizens or have filed for citizenship. They also had to agree to live on the land and improve it for a period of five years. The Homestead Act was significant because it helped to encourage settlement in the western United States and contributed to the growth of the country.
Question 4
What was the significance of the steel industry during the Gilded Age?
The steel industry was one of the most important industries during the Gilded Age. Steel was used to build railroads, bridges, and buildings, which helped to fuel economic growth. One of the most significant figures in the steel industry during this time was Andrew Carnegie, who built a vast steel empire. His company, Carnegie Steel, was the largest steel producer in the world at the time. The steel industry also played a significant role in the development of the United States as a world power.
Question 5
What was the significance of the rise of industrialization during the Gilded Age?
The rise of industrialization during the Gilded Age was significant because it led to rapid economic growth. Factories were built across the country, and new technologies were developed that allowed for mass production of goods. The growth of industry also led to the growth of cities, as people moved from rural areas to urban areas to work in factories. However, industrialization also had negative effects, such as poor working conditions and the exploitation of workers.
Question 6
What was the significance of immigration during the Gilded Age?
Immigration was significant during the Gilded Age because it led to a diverse population in the United States. Many immigrants came to the country in search of better economic opportunities, and they contributed to the growth of the country. However, immigration also led to social tensions, as some people were opposed to the influx of new immigrants. The government also passed laws that restricted immigration, such as the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Episode 5 of "America The Story of Us" provides an interesting look at the Gilded Age in the United States. This was a period of rapid economic growth, but it was also marked by widespread corruption and social inequality. The Transcontinental Railroad, the Homestead Act, the steel industry, industrialization, and immigration were all significant factors during this time. By understanding this period of history, we can gain a better understanding of how the United States developed into the country it is today.