Similarity and Difference (1890-1990)

The late 19th and early 20th century saw the rise of consumerism, as advertisements became more prevalent and effective due to advancements in communication technologies. Products like automobiles, radios, and home appliances became common household items.
This period also marked the birth of mass culture as radio, cinema, and later television began to reach wide audiences. Popular culture became more uniform across the country, blurring regional differences.

The “Great Wave” of immigration brought over 25 million people to the United States from Europe. This led to a dramatic cultural shift, with new foods, customs, and languages introduced.
Immigrants often faced discrimination and harsh working conditions. Their struggle for better treatment brought about changes in labour laws. However, their contribution was crucial to America’s industrialization.

Nativist sentiments became prevalent in the 1920s, leading to the passage of restrictive immigration laws such as the Immigration Act of 1924, which limited immigrants from certain countries.
In contrast, the post-World War II era saw a more inclusive approach, with the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 eliminating quotas based on national origin.

In the South, racial segregation was made legal by Jim Crow laws, creating persistent social and economic gaps between races, and contributing to institutional racism nationwide.
The civil rights movement of the mid-20th century, characterised by major events such as the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, substantially broke down legal barriers and advanced social equality.

The American economy consistently innovated during this period, moving from an agricultural society to a leading industrial power, driven by technological advancements and entrepreneurship.
Yet, economic crises from the Great Depression in the 1930s to the recession in the 1980s showed the fluctuating nature of the American economy.

The turn of the century saw a shift from isolationism to an increasing involvement in world affairs, starting with the Spanish-American War in 1898 and continuing with participation in both World Wars.
By the end of the Cold War, the U.S. had established itself as a global superpower, marking a significant shift in its foreign policy from the previous century.