:navigate::socialreform:

1877-1945

The turn of the century marked a new era; rapid industrialization in the late 1800s had paraded the nation into a time of great dissension among the classes. The first fifteen years of the twentieth century would be spent meddling with Progressivism and its ideals, while trouble brewed in Europe. Heinous laws were passed with Supreme Court approval during the Great War, and liberties suffered. The roaring twenties began in 1920 with women given the right to vote and embarked on a prosperous journey unimaginable in previous times that collided with the tragic Great Depression of the thirties. It wouldn't be until World War II that the power of American democracy would be realized on a global scale, and it was during this time that America set a new course: forward.

The ratification of a Bill of Rights in 1791 ensured the protection of the inherent rights of American citizens. At that time however, these guarantees only extended to white males, excluding women, Native Americans, and blacks. Consequently, the time period from 1791 to the end of Reconstruction in 1877 was one of turbulent social reforms, which were also greatly influenced by a desire for Manifest Destiny. Western lands attracted immigrants, religious groups, and white settlers hoping for a better life. Westward expansion also played a major role in the conflict over slavery, as well as strengthening women through a harsh life of danger and self-reliance. Many other women also contributed to the antebellum reforms in education, mental institutions, and temperance. Social reform continued through Reconstruction, during which constitutional amendments and civil rights legislature forever changed the role of blacks from slaves to true citizens of the United States of America.