chapter 26 Flashcards
Reservation System –
The U.S. government forced Native Americans onto specific areas of land (reservations) to control them and open land for settlers.
Little Bighorn –”
A battle in 1876 where Native American tribes (led by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse) defeated U.S. troops led by General Custer. Also called “Custer’s Last Stand.
Wounded Knee –
A massacre in 1890 where U.S. soldiers killed hundreds of Lakota Sioux, including women and children. It marked the end of Native American resistance.
Dawes Severalty Act
– A law in 1887 that tried to force Native Americans to adopt white culture by dividing their land into individual plots. It led to the loss of tribal land.
Mining Industry –
The rush for gold, silver, and other valuable minerals in the West, which led to boomtowns and economic growth but also environmental damage.
Homestead Act – .
A law in 1862 that gave 160 acres of free land to settlers who farmed it for five years, encouraging westward expansion
Frederick Jackson Turner –
A historian who wrote the “Frontier Thesis,” arguing that the American frontier shaped the country’s unique culture and democracy.
Mechanization of Agriculture –
The use of machines (like tractors) in farming, which increased production but put small farmers in debt.
Populists –
A political party in the late 1800s that represented farmers and workers, fighting against big businesses and banks.
Pullman Strike –
A major railroad strike in 1894 that started because of wage cuts and high rents. It was crushed by the government, showing its support for big business.
Gold Standard Act –
A law in 1900 that made gold the official backing of U.S. money, which helped big businesses but hurt farmers who wanted silver-backed money.
William McKinley
– The 25th U.S. president (elected in 1896), who supported big businesses, the gold standard, and was later assassinated in 1901.
Marcus Alonzo Hanna
– A wealthy businessman and political strategist who helped McKinley win the presidency by using money and strong campaigning.
