Modern American History for Kids: 1870–1968

American history from 1870 to 1968 was full of big changes, important inventions, and brave people who helped shape the country we know today. From building railroads to fighting for equal rights, these years were a time of growth, struggle, and progress.

Let’s take a look at some of the most important events during this exciting time in American history!

🚂 The Second Industrial Revolution (1870s–1914)

America became a land of factories, machines, and new inventions! This time is called the Second Industrial Revolution. People moved from farms to cities to work in factories. New inventions like the telephone, lightbulb, and the car changed everyday life.

Fun Fact: Henry Ford made cars faster and cheaper with the assembly line!

🗽 Immigration and Ellis Island (Late 1800s–Early 1900s)

Millions of people came to America from other countries looking for a better life. Many entered through Ellis Island in New York. Immigrants helped build cities, work in factories, and create new communities. Life wasn’t always easy, but they brought new cultures and ideas to America.

🎖 World War I (1914–1918, U.S. joined in 1917)

The United States joined World War I in 1917. Soldiers went overseas to fight, while people at home grew food, worked in factories, and supported the war effort. After the war ended in 1918, the country celebrated peace—but more challenges were ahead.

💃 The Roaring Twenties (1920s)

The 1920s were a time of jazz music, new fashion, and fun! Women gained the right to vote in 1920 with the 19th Amendment. But not everything was great—many Black Americans, immigrants, and poor people still faced unfair treatment.

💔 The Great Depression (1930s)

In 1929, the stock market crashed and caused the Great Depression. Many people lost their jobs, homes, and money. President Franklin D. Roosevelt created the New Deal to help Americans get back on their feet.

🌎 World War II (1939–1945, U.S. joined in 1941)

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. joined World War II in 1941. Men went to war, and women worked in factories and supported the military. Americans also rationed food and supplies to help the war effort. The war ended in 1945 with victory for the Allies.

💣 The Cold War Begins (Late 1940s–1960s)

After WWII, the U.S. and the Soviet Union became rivals in a time called the Cold War. They didn’t fight directly but competed in things like space exploration and building powerful weapons. Kids practiced "duck and cover" drills in school just in case of a nuclear attack.

✊ The Civil Rights Movement (1950s–1960s)

Many brave people stood up for equal rights for Black Americans during the Civil Rights Movement. Heroes like Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., John Lewis, and Ruby Bridges helped change unfair laws. Events like the Montgomery Bus Boycott, the March on Washington, and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 helped bring more justice to America.

🏁 Wrapping Up

From 1870 to 1968, America faced big ups and downs—wars, inventions, hard times, and brave movements for change. These years helped shape the modern world we live in today. By learning about the past, we can better understand the present—and help make the future even better!

📚 What Can You Do?
Ask your family about their history. Visit a museum. Read a book about someone from this time period. History is your story too!

Answer to "Why Learning History is Super Important" blog post question: Martin Luther King Jr., Junípero Serra, Susan B. Anthony, and Walt Disney.