How was America transformed into an industrial society?  How was it that in just a few short years, America became the most industrialized country in the world with sprawling cities and busy factories

2) In 1898, the U.S. went to war with the Spanish.  Part of the reason for the war was the alleged war crimes committed against the Cuban people.  Was this war justified?  Explain the American rationale for going to war with Spain.

3) Inequality played a major role in American life throughout the late 19th/early 20th century.  What drove inequality in America and what role did it play in American life?

4) In 1877, the American economy was growing by leaps and bounds.  But in order to sustain that growth, Americans needed access to western lands.  What generally happened to an indigenous population – Native Americans, Mexican nationals, or the natural landscape – when “progress” came to the West?