Readiness TEKS USH Questions

Front

What was a major negative consequence of industrialization in the U.S.?

Back

Labor exploitation and poor working conditions

Answer explanation

A major negative consequence of industrialization in the U.S. was labor exploitation and poor working conditions. Many workers faced long hours, low wages, and unsafe environments, highlighting the darker side of rapid industrial growth.

Front

How did the growth of railroads impact the economy?

Back

It increased westward expansion and opened new markets.

Answer explanation

The growth of railroads significantly increased westward expansion by facilitating transportation and trade, opening new markets for goods and resources, which boosted the economy.

Front

What was a major issue farmers faced in the late 19th century? Options: A shortage of crops , Overproduction leading to falling prices , Increased land ownership opportunities , Government subsidies for all farmers

Back

Overproduction leading to falling prices .

Answer explanation

In the late 19th century, farmers faced overproduction, which caused crop prices to plummet. This economic struggle was a significant issue, making it difficult for farmers to sustain their livelihoods.

Front

What led to the decline of the open range cattle industry?

Back

Overgrazing and barbed wire fencing

Answer explanation

The decline of the open range cattle industry was primarily due to overgrazing and the introduction of barbed wire fencing, which restricted cattle movement and led to land degradation.

Front

What was a major effect of the Dawes Act (1887)?

Back

Forced assimilation and land loss for Native Americans

Answer explanation

The Dawes Act aimed to assimilate Native Americans into American society by allotting individual plots of land, which led to significant land loss and undermined tribal sovereignty.

Front

What was a key characteristic of political machines?

Back

They provided services in exchange for votes.

Answer explanation

Political machines were known for providing services, such as jobs or assistance, in exchange for votes. This reciprocal relationship was a key characteristic, distinguishing them from efforts aimed at reducing corruption or fraud.

Front

The Pendleton Act (1883) was designed to: Reinforce the spoils system End corruption in the railroad industry Require government jobs to be awarded on merit Reduce business regulation

Back

Require government jobs to be awarded on merit

Answer explanation

The Pendleton Act (1883) aimed to reform the federal hiring process by requiring government jobs to be awarded based on merit rather than political connections, thus reducing corruption in the civil service.

Front

Which group fought for suffrage during the late 19th and early 20th centuries?

Back

Women

Answer explanation

The suffrage movement primarily involved women advocating for their right to vote during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, making 'Women' the correct answer.

Front

What was a common strategy used by labor unions to fight for better conditions? Options: Buying company stock, Organizing strikes, Eliminating competition, Supporting monopolies

Back

Organizing strikes

Answer explanation

A common strategy used by labor unions to fight for better conditions was organizing strikes. Strikes are collective actions where workers stop working to demand better wages, hours, and working conditions.

Front

John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie were known for:

Back

Creating business empires

Answer explanation

John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie were prominent industrialists who created vast business empires in the oil and steel industries, respectively, significantly shaping the American economy during the late 19th century.