DP1_H1302

Due 9/23/2025

Prompt for Discussion Paper One

The late nineteenth and early twentieth century was a moment of rapid change in American society.  From industrialization, urbanization, shifting labor and party alliances, immigration, and deepening social divisions, various people, institutions, and organizations began shaping the twentieth century in significant ways.  In this short 3–4 page response essay, please talk about the ways in which the rise of technology and immigration influenced this period.  You might talk specifically about the importance of railroads, electric power and lighting, the phonograph, or other forms of technology defined in the chapters.  For immigration, you might talk about Ellis Island, rising urbanization, reasons for their movement, and what immigrants experienced in American cities.

This is a short essay.  You do not have space to talk extensively about these points.  If you make 2-3 points for technology and 2-3 points for immigration that will be enough.  Please be concise, make clear points, and use examples from the textbook and lecture to answer the question.  Please avoid extensive quotations from the text.  Place the ideas into your own words and thoughts.   

As for the paper, it should be written in the traditional MLA format, Times Roman 12 point font, and double spaced.  As usual, you should always place your name and course information at the top left of the paper.  A title page is not necessary for this work.  This is the equivalent of a discussion paper and not a research paper, so respond in writing, using your own words.  Footnotes and endnotes are not required for this type of submission.