Prompt: Evaluate the relative significance of the development of the West between 1865 and 1898.
Body paragraphs (topics/arguments relate back to thesis)
thesis: The development of the West between 1865 and 1898 was a very important time period in shaping the future of the U.S. It led to a huge population moving west, the growth of industries and commerce, and the advancement of democratic ideals. This period witnessed major advancements in transportation, communication, and urbanization, ultimately transforming the west into a vital and essential part of the nation. The west’s expansion led to economic growth, societal changes, and helped see America as a major world power. However, while the development of the West was significant, it had a huge impact on society.
Paragraph 1:
The population moving west during this time period was an extremely significant aspect of the development of the West. The completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869 made it easier for people to travel westward, leading to a massive influx of people seeking opportunity. This population boom not only increased the population of the West, but also greatly influenced the political and cultural landscape of the region. The arrival of immigrants and settlers from different backgrounds and regions brought diversity and new ideas to the West, shaping it into a more diverse and multicultural region. This population movement also had a profound impact on the native populations already living in the West, leading to conflicts and the displacement of indigenous peoples from their ancestral lands.
Paragraph 2:
The growth of industries and commerce in the West during this time period was another essential component of its development. The discovery of valuable natural resources, such as gold and silver, and the expansion of industries like agriculture and mining, led to economic growth and prosperity in the region. The development of industries and the establishment of commercial centers in the West boosted trade and contributed significantly to the overall economic development of the United States. This economic growth also created opportunities for employment and attracted thousands of individuals looking to make a living and improve their lives. The development of irrigation systems and advancements in agricultural practices allowed for the cultivation of arid lands, further contributing to the growth of industries and the establishment of prosperous farming communities.
Paragraph 3:
Furthermore, the advancement of democratic ideals and the expansion of political rights during this period had a transformative impact on the West and the nation as a whole. The West provided an opportunity for individuals to escape the social and political constraints of the East, allowing for greater social mobility and personal freedom. The establishment of representative governments and the extension of voting rights to a larger portion of the population in the West helped to promote democratic values and principles. The Western states, in particular, played a crucial role in pushing for progressive reforms and advocating for greater social and political equality. The development of the West fostered a spirit of individualism and self-reliance, values that became deeply ingrained in American culture and continue to shape the nation today.
Paragraph 4:
While the development of the West during this time period was undoubtedly significant, it is important to acknowledge the negative impacts it had on society. The displacement and mistreatment of indigenous populations, the degradation of the environment through large-scale mining and deforestation, and the exploitation of workers in industries were all harmful consequences of the West’s development. The expansion of the West also contributed to the perpetuation of racial tensions and discrimination, particularly against Chinese immigrants who faced harsh living conditions and discriminatory policies. These negative aspects of the West’s development cannot be ignored and should serve as a reminder of the complexity and mixed legacy of this period in American history.
In conclusion, the development of the West between 1865 and 1898 was a transformative and significant era that shaped the future of the United States. The population movement, growth of industries and commerce, and the advancement of democratic ideals all played a crucial role in the development of the West and the nation as a whole. However, it is important to recognize and acknowledge the negative impacts that accompanied this development and work towards a more comprehensive understanding of this period in history.