America’s settlement of the West in the latter 19th century was a central source for popular entertainment throughout much of the 20th century. Not surprisingly, little of the material in movies, on TV and in books was factual or accurate, bordering instead on myth. Why was this so? Why were Americans so preoccupied with the western frontier, and why did this quintessentially American form of entertainment go out of fashion as the 20th century come to an end?
Populism seemed to originate in rural areas of the U.S., while progressivism was more an urban movement. Why was this so? What does the difference tell us about American character? Were (and are) Americans truly egalitarians who wish fair treatment for all, or are they more prejudiced and class conscious? Has (and is) American character changed (changing), or is it more stable and constant?
Populism – a political approach that strives to appeal to ordinary people who feel that their concerns are disregarded by established elite groups.
Progressivism – support for or advocacy of social reform
Social Reform – a social movement that aims to make gradual change, or change in certain aspects of society, rather than rapid or fundamental changes.
Egalitarian – relating to or believing in the principle that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities.
3. Explain America’s anti-communist hysteria in the early 1950s. What led to the rise of Senator Joseph McCarthy and his followers? Did Americans really believe that the Soviet Union and communism could take over the U.S.? What ended the Red Scare, or di it ever really end?
4. How did World War II affect the social fabric of the U.S.? Who benefitted from the social changes the war brought about? How did the country change after the war
