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20th Century US History

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About 20th Century US History

In the 20th century, the United States underwent a series of transformations. The country experienced rapid economic growth, became a world power, and saw the rise of the Civil Rights movement.

The early 20th century was a time of great prosperity for the US. The economy boomed thanks to new inventions and increased trade. Big business emerged as a powerful force, and the US became a world power following its victory in World War I.

The 1920s was a period of great change, as women gained the right to vote and "flappers" embraced a more liberated lifestyle. However, the stock market crash of 1929 led to the Great Depression, which was a major economic downturn that lasted for years.

The 1930s also saw the rise of the Civil Rights movement, as African Americans fought for equal rights. The economy began to improve during this decade as well, thanks to government programs like the New Deal.

World War II broke out in the 1940s, and the US joined the Allied Powers to fight against the Axis Powers. The US enjoyed prosperity during the postwar years, and the baby boom led to increased growth in the suburbs.

The 1950s were a time of Cold War tension, as the US and the Soviet Union engaged in a "arms race." The Civil Rights movement continued to grow, and reached a major milestone with the desegregation of public schools.

The 1960s were a turbulent decade, marked by anti-war protests, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, and the growth of the counterculture. The Civil Rights movement made significant progress, culminating in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The 1970s were a time of economic stagnation, as the US grappled with high inflation and unemployment. The country also experienced an energy crisis, as oil prices spiked following the Arab-Israeli War.

The 1980s were a period of economic growth, as new technologies emerged and globalization increased. The Cold War came to an end with the fall of the Soviet Union, and the US celebrated its victory in the "arms race."

The 1990s was a decade of peace and prosperity, as the US enjoyed a period of economic growth. The country also became embroiled in a number of foreign conflicts, including the first Gulf War and the war in Bosnia.

The early 21st century has been a time of terrorist attacks, including the September 11th attacks of 2001. The US has also been involved in wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Despite these challenges, the US economy has continued to grow, and the country remains a world power.

Learning 20th Century US History