American History Reforms and Amendments

Constitutional Amendments

• 16th Amendment: Authorized Congress to levy an income tax without apportioning it among the states.
• 17th Amendment: Established the direct election of U.S. Senators by popular vote, replacing the previous system of state legislature appointments.
• 18th Amendment: Prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages, initiating Prohibition in the United States.
• 19th Amendment: Granted women the right to vote, marking a significant victory for the women's suffrage movement.

Key Figures and Movements

• Ida Tarbell: Renowned investigative journalist and muckraker, known for her exposé on Standard Oil Company and its monopolistic practices.
• Susan B. Anthony: Prominent social reformer and women's rights activist, played a crucial role in the women's suffrage movement.
• W.E.B. Du Bois: Co-founder of the NAACP, advocate for civil rights, and proponent of the education and political representation for African Americans.
• George Washington Carver: Renowned agricultural scientist and inventor, known for his work with peanuts and crop rotation to improve soil health.
• Labor Leaders (AFL): The American Federation of Labor (AFL) was under the leadership of Samuel Gompers, focusing on skilled workers' rights and collective bargaining.

Legislative Acts

• Sherman Antitrust Act: First federal legislation aimed at curbing monopolies and promoting competition in business practices.
• Federal Reserve Act: Created the Federal Reserve System, establishing a central banking structure to regulate monetary policy and stabilize the economy.
• Interstate Commerce Act: Established the Interstate Commerce Commission to regulate railroad rates and practices, addressing unfair practices in railroad transportation.
• Pure Food and Drug Act: Legislation enacted to eliminate misleading labeling and ensure the safety of food and pharmaceutical products.

Political Mechanisms

• Initiative: A process that allows citizens to propose legislation and vote on it directly, promoting democratic participation.
• Referendum: A direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal, often resulting in the adoption of new laws.
• Recall: A political process that enables voters to remove elected officials from office before the end of their term.

Social Movements and Organizations

• NAACP: The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People was founded to fight for civil rights and social justice for African Americans.
• Muckrakers: Journalists and reformers who exposed corruption, social injustices, and corporate wrongdoing, significantly impacting public opinion and reforms.
• Wobblies: Nickname for members of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), a radical labor organization advocating for workers' rights and inclusivity.

Social Issues

• Conservation: Movement aimed at the sustainable use and protection of natural resources, emphasizing the importance of preserving wilderness and wildlife.
• Prohibition: A nationwide constitutional ban on the production, importation, transportation, and sale of alcohol that lasted from 1920 until 1933.

Test your knowledge on key American historical reforms and amendments, including the 16th to 19th Amendments and significant acts like the Pure Food and Drug Act and the Sherman Antitrust Act. Explore the contributions of influential figures such as Ida Tarbell, Susan B. Anthony, and W.E.B. Dubois in shaping modern America. This quiz covers essential topics in social and political change.