Alaska Purchase

"Alaska is nothing but Seward's Icebox." Explain in your own words what this statement means. Then explain whether this statement holds true today.

Child Labor

Child Labor has been used for many centuries throughout the world and was used for over 150 years in the United States. It was initially used to aid the family in farm work and then in factories to speed up production and as a way for factory owners to save money, however,there are a great many people that feel child labor is wrong to use in any instance.

1. Is child labor appropriate in some situations?
2. What elements of childhood are we attempting to protect when we regulate child labor? How do the rights of a child differ from general human rights?

The Rise of Big Business

It is 1895, and your town is home to a large corporation. The company’s founder and owner, a wealthy man, lives in a mansion on a hill. He is a fair employer but not especially generous. Many townspeople work in his factory. You and other town leaders feel that he should contribute more to local charities and community organizations.
How could this business leader help the town more?

Industrial Age

The first Industrial Revolution in America began in the early 1800's. It changed the way products were made, from handwork to machines. It moved the workplace from cottages to factories. Later, it brought advances in transportation and communication. The Second Industrial Revolution built on these changes, introducing new technology and new sources of power.

How did industrialization and immigration change the face of American life?

Limiting Immigration

In the early 20th century, the immigration debate began. Many people felt immigration should be limited; others felt it should open to all.

Argument in favor of limiting immigration:

• Immigration needs to be limited so the people already in America can become "pure" Americans.

• Only immigrants who fit in and can contribute to the American character should be allowed to immigrate.

Argument against limiting immigration:

• America is a melting pot, where all races from all countries come together and melt into Americans.

• America gives everyone a fresh start, and every person deserves the opportunity for that fresh start.

Should immigration be limited? Explain

Chinese Exclusion

The Chinese Exclusion Act, the law that was made in 1882 was meant to control people from China living and working in the U.S. How do you feel about that law? Is it fair or unfair? Why?

Ellis Island

Ellis Island was often referred to as the "Gateway to the New World" because people were ushered from place to place until they exited a gate that would allow them access to America. The process of checking the immigrants was to make sure that each individual passed tests before being allowed to enter America. As many as one out of five immigrants did not pass the tests and were denied access to America. These people were returned to their homelands. If a person was sick and could possibly infect others, was suffering from mental illness, or was thought to be a criminal; the immigrant would be detained, eventually returned to the boat, and then returned to his or her homeland.

1.     What is your opinion of the immigrant testing process? Is it fair or unfair? Explain.
2.     Explain the purpose of the process.
3.     What modern ideas about immigration can you compare it to? Explain