Course Overview

AP United States History B continues the chronological and thematic study of U.S. history, focusing on the late 19th century through the present. Students analyze industrialization, social reform, America's role in the world, and the ongoing struggle to define freedom, equality, and democracy. This second-semester course builds on the skills of source analysis, historical reasoning, and argumentation developed in Part A, preparing students for success on the AP® U.S. History Exam.

Key Learning Focus

Students will:

• Examine Reconstruction and the rise of the modern industrial economy.
• Analyze the Progressive Era, World Wars I and II, and America's emergence as a global power.
• Study the Great Depression, New Deal policies, and postwar prosperity.
• Investigate the Civil Rights Movement, Cold War politics, and shifting cultural identities.
• Evaluate recent history, including debates about economic globalization, immigration, and America's role in the 21st century.

Instructional Approach

Students continue to develop proficiency with DBQs, thematic essays, and AP-style practice questions, while engaging in analysis of diverse historical perspectives and contemporary debates.

Outcome

By the end of AP U.S. History B, students will:

• Demonstrate mastery of major political, economic, social, and cultural developments from 1877 to the present.
• Construct persuasive, evidence-based arguments about continuity and change in American history.
• Be thoroughly prepared for success on the AP® United States History Exam and for advanced study in history, political science, or related fields.