The period of American History that extends from the late 19th century to the early 20th century was a great time of political, economic, and social growth and expansion in the United States. Some Americans moved west in hopes of striking it rich in the gold rush, or settling down on a farm to make a living for themselves, and their families. Others immigrated to the country from all parts of the world hoping to live out their own American dream, and find a new, better life for themselves. The turning point of this age, however, was the rise of big businesses, and the expansion of industrialism as the frontier officially closed, and America began to build up, into big cities, while before it had been expanding outwards toward the west coast. …show more content…
A culmination of many events led to the closing of the frontier. One noteable cause would be the passing of the Homestead Act, which encouraged people to move west and take up the last of the remaining lands by offering them 160 acres if they could farm it for 5 years. Another important happening which led to this turning point in American History was the completion of the transcontinental railroad. The railroad, like the Homestead Act, encouraged westward movement by making the difficult task of transporting people, and tools such as farming equipment, much easier to do. The existence of the railroad also encouraged the formation of cities and towns along it’s path so that trade could flourish, and businesses could begin to grow. As a result growing businesses led to the rise of monopolies in America, such as those led by Carnegie, and Rockefeller, and these growing businesses created many new jobs for the many immigrants who were moving to America at growing rates. These represent both economic, and social changes in America following the closing of the frontier. Sometimes these changes in business and the industrialization of America led to poor conditions for immigrants,