The West (1865-1900) History Quiz

The West (1865-1900)

• The period from 1865 to 1900 saw significant westward expansion and development in the United States.
• Native American resistance to government policies and westward expansion was a key aspect of the era.
• Conflicts between Native Americans and the U.S. government included broken promises, forced removals, and massacres.
• The Dawes Severalty Act of 1887 aimed to assimilate Native Americans by dissolving tribes and promoting individual land ownership.
• Key battles on the plains during this period included Custer's Last Stand, the Battle of Little Bighorn, and the Battle of Wounded Knee, illustrating the violent conflicts.
• The near-extermination of the buffalo contributed to the decline of Plains Indian cultures and societies owing to its importance in their traditions and economy.
• The construction of railroads significantly facilitated westward expansion, also contributing to the westward movement of settlers.
• The railroad facilitated the transport of goods and people, fueling the growth of towns and industries.
• The Homestead Act of 1862 offered land to settlers for a small fee in order to populate the newly acquired western territories.
• This act encouraged migration westward, contributing to the development of agriculture on the plains.
• The mining industry, spurred by the discovery of gold and other minerals (comstock lode), spurred rapid development in the west, especially in Colorado, Nevada and other territories.
• Boomtowns grew rapidly on the western frontier.
• "Helldorados" were often characterized by lawlessness and disorder.
• The establishment of ranching played a crucial role in the development of the west.
• Long cattle drives from Texas to Kansas were a significant aspect of the industry.
• The growth of the meat industry was tied to the growth in railroads, and the rising demand for meat in Eastern markets drove this industry.
• Agricultural practices on the plains also changed with new farming techniques, and the emergence of larger scale farms that led to smaller farms going out of business, and new methods to manage water resources from federally funded projects.
• Farmers' alliances and the Grange Movement were crucial in uniting farmers to address common issues, like railroad rates and access to credit.
• These groups, as well as the Populist movement, advocated for reforms for farmers, helping to establish early examples of farmer advocacy.
• Key political factions, such as the Populist Party, emerged during the time period seeking greater equality in the economy, or for debtors and farmers.

Important Figures/Groups

• Chief Joseph (Nez Perce)
• Sitting Bull (Sioux)
• Geronimo (Apache)

Important Acts/Events

• Dawes Severalty Act (1887)
• Homestead Act (1862)
• Custer's Last Stand
• Battle of Little Bighorn
• Battle of Wounded Knee
• Long Drives (cattle drives)