Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: Colonial AmericaSong List:

“The World I Know” by Collective Soul“Let’s Go” by Trick Daddy

“Keep the Faith” by Bon Jovi“Running with the Devil” by Van Halen

“Highway To Hell” by AC/DC“Open Your Eyes” by Alter Bridge

“Last Resort” by Papa Roach“Get This Party Started” by Pink

“Keep Away” by Godsmack“American Idiot” by Green Day“Sabotage” by The Beastie Boys

“Foolish Games” by Jewel“It's Been Awhile” by Staind

Beginning in the 1600’s, explorers from all over the world, such as Christopher Columbus and Amerigo Vespucci, had to redefine “The World I Know” (Collective Soul). The Treaty of Tordesillas (1494) would give most of North and South America to Spain, but the British would take control in 1588. “Let’s Go” (Trick Daddy), was the mentality of many religious groups in Europe. In 1620, the Plymouth Colony was founded by the Pilgrims who were attempting to “Keep the Faith” (Bon Jovi) by seeking religious freedom. They were trying to escape the Church of England. Others that would follow this pattern would be the Puritans, the Huguenots and Calvinists.

In the new Massachusetts Bay Colony, the authority was attacked by Anne Hutchinson. Hutchinson claimed to have spoken with the Holy Spirit. The leaders there claimed she was “Running with the Devil” (Van Halen), and banished her to Rhode Island. Rhode Island had been founded by another man who was banished from Massachusetts, Roger Williams.

Another movement known as The Great Awakening, revived the religious consciousness of the colonists, and attempted to get them off of the “Highway to Hell” (AC/DC). By the 1800’s, another social movement known as The Enlightenment, asked colonists to “Open Your Eyes” (Alter Bridge), and reject traditional views by emphasizing rationalism instead of traditional religious, social, and political ideas.

By the mid-1700’s, the colonists used their emphasis on rationalism, and came to the conclusion that they were being treated unfairly by the mother country, Great Britain. The “Last Resort” (Papa Roach) was a series of acts passed by King George. The acts included the Stamp Act and the Townshend Acts. In 1773, the Tea Act was passed, and that was when the Sons of Liberty decided to”Get This Party Started” (Pink) in Boston Harbor.

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The American Revolution began with the Boston Massacre. The colonists had their first victory at Lexington and Concord in 1775. A year later, the Americans would tell Britain to “Keep Away” (Godsmack) for good, by declaring their independence.

Divisions amongst all Americans were created once the war broke out. The revolutionaries were able to withstand a plot by an “American Idiot” (Green Day) Benedict Arnold, who plotted the surrender of West Point in exchange for a bribe. A new nation would eventually emerge from the chaos that was the American Revolution.

Another attempt to “Sabotage” (The Beastie Boys) the new United States was the Newburgh Conspiracy in 1783. The conspiracy failed because of an emotional plea made by George Washington.

The first government for the United States was drawn up in the Articles of Confederation in 1783. It would only take a few years to realize that the Articles were nothing but a lot of “Foolish Games” (Jewel) that could not effectively govern the former colonies. The Articles did not enforce any of the laws that it declared, and that become very obvious in 1786 during Shays’ Rebellion. Captain Daniel Shays led a group of farmers that decided, “It’s Been A While” (Staind) since they had been able to live without debt. Many of the farmers were Revolutionary War veterans, and they were upset that the government they helped to create was now throwing them in prison for not paying off taxes or mortgages.

Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: American ConstitutionSong List:

“The Reason” by Hoobastank“Complicated” by Avril Lavigne

“Dream On” by Aerosmith“All The Small Things” by Blink 182

“Hero” by Chad Kroeger (ft. Josie Scott)“So Far Away” by Staind

“One Step Closer” by Linkin Park“I Fought The Law” by Green Day

After discovering the failures of the Articles of Confederation, the Philadelphia Convention in 1787 was called to reevaluate the first US Constitution. The delegates, while discussing events such as Shays’ Rebellion, decide that they had found “The Reason” (Hoobastank) to throw out the Articles, and draft a new Constitution. Divisions were quickly created amongst the delegates, and things got very “Complicated” (Avril Lavigne). The issue of representation was one of the first problems to resolve. The Great Compromise between The Virginia Plan (Large State Plan) and The New Jersey Plan (Small-State Plan) resulted in a strong executive branch, a bi-cameral legislature, an independent court system, and a federal government that could levy taxes.

The Federalists and the Anti-Federalists would debate publicly in the newspapers about the new constitution. The Anti-Federalists let the Federalists know that they could “Dream On” (Aerosmith) when it comes to the new constitution unless they remembered “All The Small Things” (Blink 182), in a Bill of Rights.

George Washington had already earned the status of a “Hero” (Chad Kroeger feat. Josie Scott), because of his role as a General in the Revolutionary War. He reluctantly became the first President of the United States in 1789. He set the important precedent of serving two 4-year terms, and then leaving the Presidency.

Washington would allow Alexander Hamilton to create the first financial plan for The United States. Hamilton’s plan was “So Far Away” (Staind) from what had originally been intended for the US in the Articles of Confederation. His plan called for the assumption of state debts by the federal government, as well as a national bank to help restore credit. Hamilton’s Federalist ideas helped bring the structure of the national banking system “One Step Closer” (Linkin Park) to what the US currently has today.

The power of the new Constitution would be tested in 1794 when a group of farmers in Pennsylvania rebelled against an excise tax placed on whisky. The Whisky Rebellion was brought down by troops sent by President Washington. It would be the first time in US history a person who took part in a rebellion had to face the fact that “I Fought The Law” (Green Day), and the law won.

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Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: Jefferson-HarrisonSong List:

“Loser” by 3 Doors Down“Breaking The Habit” by Linkin Park

“Falls Apart” by Sugar Ray“Bust A Move” by Young MC“The Unforgiven” by Metallica

“The Middle” by Jimmy Eat World“Headstrong” by Trapt

“War (What is It Good For) ” by Rare Earth“The Anthem” by Good Charlotte

“Feelin' Way Too Good” by Nickelback“Fortune Faded” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

“Southtown” by P.O.D.“Broken” by Seether (feat. Amy Lee)

“American Woman” by Lenny Kravitz“Dilemma” by Nelly (feat. Kelly Rowland)

“Under The Bridge” by Red Hot Chili Peppers“With Or Without You” by U2“Unwell” by Matchbox Twenty

John Adams would be elected the second President of the United States in 1797, but he would also be the first President to be a “Loser” (3 Doors Down) four years later. Adams would become the first President to peacefully transition power to another person after being defeated at the ballot box in the “Revolution of 1800”. This transition began “Breaking the Habit” (Linkin Park) worldwide, and would be the first of many peaceful transitions of power in the US.

As Thomas Jefferson’s Presidency began, he quickly turned his back on many of his own ideals. Jefferson never wanted to be a President that expanded the territory of the United States, but that notion “Falls Apart” (Sugar Ray), when France offers James Monroe the Louisiana Territory for only $15 million. Jefferson put together a team that he asked to “Bust A Move” (Young MC) across the newly acquired territory. Meriwether Lewis and William Clark went on a 2-year expedition across the Louisiana Territory, mapped the region, and promoted the fur trade there.

Aaron Burr had been Jefferson’s first Vice President. Burr had his own aspirations however. Burr plotted to separate New England form the US, but Alexander Hamilton exposed his plan. Hamilton remained “The Unforgiven” (Metallica) in Burr’s mind, and would pay the price for that when they had a duel in 1804. Burr fatally shot Hamilton, and then fled to the west to live amongst other people who hated Hamilton.

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Since its origin, the United States had been caught in “The Middle” (Jimmy Eat World) of the long-lasting feud between Britain and France. France’s leader Napoleon implemented a “Headstrong” (Trapt) policy in the Milan Decree. This decree said that any ship bound for an English port, could be confiscated by France. Many Americans would be impressed into service for both France and England because of this decree.

Anti-British sentiment and arrogant policies by Britain eventually lead to the War of 1812. A new generation of US policy makers had an idealized version of war on their minds, and thought war could bring glory and honor to their own political careers. After three years of fighting, Americans were forced to ask the question, “War, What is it Good For” (Rare Earth)? The answer: Absolutely nothing. The War of 1812 added nothing significant to either Britain or the United States. However, one “Key” thing did emerge from a prison cell in Baltimore during the war. During the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key did write “The Anthem” (Good Charlotte) for the United States.

Coming out of the War of 1812, Americans were feeling very nationalistic. They were "Feelin Way Too Good" (Nickelback) however, because the country had economic problems. With "Fortune Faded" (Red Hot Chili Peppers), America would now begin to fracture politically. Those in the "Southtown(s)" (P.O.D.) had become very nationalistic in their beliefs, but now that sentiment was "Broken" (Seether feat. Amy Lee).

Another point of contention between the North and South originated around an "American Woman" (Lenny Kravitz), Mrs. Peggy Eaton. The Peggy Eaton Affair was the beginning of a personal rift between President Jackson, and John C. Calhoun. Later, politicians from the South are going to create another "Dilemma" (Nelly feat. Kelly Rowland) for Jackson. They proposed a bill to renew the Bank of the U.S. If Jackson renewed it, he would alienate those in the West. If he eliminated it, he would alienate the wealthy in the North. Jackson would eventually decide to "kill" the bank.

People in Massachusetts also had a problem at this time that could not wash "Under the Bridge" (Red Hot Chili Peppers). The Warren Bridge and Charles River Bridge Companies fought each other over the right to build bridges 300 yards away from each other. The Supreme Court ruled that each could build their bridge, and thus paved the way for competition in the transportation industry.

In 1830, Americans turned their attention towards Native-Americans, and said to them, we can't live "With Or Without You" (U2). The 5 civilized nations were forcibly removed, and expansion westward continued at a rapid pace.

The US would get a new President in 1841. William Henry Harrison used his fame from the Battle of Tippecanoe, and was elected in an electoral landslide, 234-60. He caught a cold during his inaugural address, and remained “Unwell” (Matchbox 20) until his death a month later. Harrison was the first President to die while in office.

Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: Early 1800’sSong List:

“I Don't Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith“Machinehead” by Bush

“Workin' For A Livin'” by Huey Lewis & The News“What's My Age Again?”by Blink 182

“Creep” by TLC“Another Brick In The Wall” by Pink Floyd“Were Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister

“Vindicated” by Dashboard Confessional“Paradise City” by Guns N' Roses

“Fall To Pieces” by Velvet Revolver“One Thing” by Finger Eleven

Between the 1830's and 1860's, America's population was expanding fast, and it began to change. From abroad, many immigrants began to make the long journey while thinking, "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing" (Aerosmith), since the economy in America provided jobs with increasing pay. The Irish and the Germans were the biggest beneficiaries of this time period. The beginning of the Industrial Revolution was causing Americans to become a bunch of "Machinehead(s)" (Bush), and the new industrial labor jobs created at this time, were what kept the immigrants coming.

It was becoming easier for Americans to start "Workin' For A Livin'" (Huey Lewis & The News), particularly women. Unfortunately for them, immigrants would many times get the jobs over the women, causing them to go back to being homemakers. Others working in industry were asking their employers, "What's My Age Again" (Blink 182), since a large number of the workers were under the age of 10.

Meanwhile, Americans began to "Creep" (TLC) around the nation as the Transportation Revolution provided easier transportation including roads, canals, and eventually the railroad. Ultimately, the ease of transportation would bring the country together in a new national economy that would set the foundation for a nearly impossible situation for the South, when they try and secede during the Civil War.

Women were an important part of the home, but between 1830 and 1860 their roles will change. Their main job had been that of making clothes for the family, but industry decided that it would be economically beneficial to do that themselves. Already isolated in society, this change just added "Another Brick In The Wall" (Pink Floyd) to the plight of women. As time went on, women will finally declare that "We're Not Gonna Take It" (Twisted Sister) and begin to push for their own suffrage. Elizabeth Cady Stanton is one of the most vocal figures to examine, especially since she helped to organize the Seneca Falls Convention, which is where the "Declaration of Sentiments" was written. Through the works of women like Dorothea Dix, who worked for the rights of the mentally-ill, and

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the written exploits of the Grimke Sisters, women will eventually be "Vindicated" (Dashboard Confessional) in their cause.

Many groups in America during this time period also were attempting to create their own "Paradise City" (Guns N' Roses) with their Wilderness Utopias. Notable groups include the group in New Harmony, Indiana that created the first kindergarten, free public school, and free public library, as well as the Oneida Colony that held its "corporate marriage" beliefs. Many would argue that the Mormons were the most successful of all the Wilderness Utopias.

In the first have of the 1800’s, the South’s economy began to “Fall To Pieces” (Velvet Revolver), because they allowed it to be based on just “One Thing” (Finger Eleven)… cotton. King Cotton, as it became known, was the primary focus of the southern economy, but cotton farming abroad, as well as more profitable manufacturing products from the northern US, were cutting into the money being made by the southern states.

Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: 1800’s-Manifest Destiny

Song List: “Wherever I May Roam” by Metallica

“California Love” by 2Pac“Nuthin' But A "G" Thang” by Snoop Dog & Dr. Dre

“Are You Gonna Go My Way” by Lenny Kravitz“Going Under” by Evanescence

“Drop It Like It's Hot” by Snoop Dogg & Pharrell Williams“Country Grammar” by Nelly

“Pretty Fly (For A White Guy)” by Offspring

Between 1825 and 1850, the United States decided it would go “Wherever I May Roam” (Metallica). This concept would later be called Manifest Destiny, and this was a belief that America was divinely called to control all of the land between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It started when many people began to have some “California Love” (2Pac), and realized how wealthy they could become due to the natural resources in the land. The US added California, Texas, and the Oregon territories to the ever-growing country. The final piece added to the continental United States came in 1853 when land was bought south of the Arizona territory, in order to build a transcontinental railroad on it. The Gadsden Purchase was “Nuthin' But A "G" Thang” (Snoop Dogg & Dr. Dre).

As new territories were being added to the US, the concept of Popular Sovereignty dictated that governments in these territories ask their voters “Are You Gonna Go My Way” (Lenny Kravitz) on the issue of slavery. Popular Sovereignty was initially seen as a way to pacify the entire country on the issue of slavery, but instead it was the beginning of a lot of tension between the north and the south, and eventually would be a major reason the civil war broke out.

While the US was spreading west, slaves in the east were now “Going Under” (Evanescence), in a new effort to free themselves. The Underground Railroad helped move slaves north in a series of hideouts along the way. Harriet Tubman was the organizer of this movement, and was one of the most famous “conductors”. The politicians from the south attempted to draft a Fugitive Slave law that would require people in the north that they would be bound by law to return slaves that they know have run away. These laws were enacted, but once the south seceded during the civil war, northerners took these laws, and would “Drop It Like It's Hot (Snoop Dogg & Pharrell Williams).

People in the south had to add some news words into their “Country Grammar” (Nelly) during the 1850’s. Words like, Ostend Manifesto would be known throughout the south in 1854, since this was an attempt to acquire Cuba as a new southern slave state.

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Also, the Kansas Nebraska Act was another proposal made in 1854, that said Popular Sovereignty would dictate how the new states of Kansas and Nebraska would decide their slave status.

American Literature began to reflect the new social movements. Writers like Emerson, Melville, Hawthorne, and Poe will write classics that will bring international fame to American authors. One of the most influential is the "Essay On Civil Disobedience" written by Henry David Thoreau. Thoreau’s influence will continue for generations. Even Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will read his essay and think he is "Pretty Fly (For A White Guy)" (Offspring).

Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: Social Reform & The Civil War

Song List: “Somewhere I Belong” by Linkin Park

“Rearranged” by Limp Bizket“Fight For Your Right” by The Beastie Boys

“Let It Be” by The Beatles“End Of The Road” by Boyz II Men

“Raise Up” by Petey Pablo (feat. Timbaland)“Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson “On The Way Down” by Ryan Cabrera

“Switch” by Will Smith

Before the Civil War, ex-slaves like Sojournor Truth, Frederick Douglas, and Denmark Vesey, were looking for “Somewhere I Belong” (Linkin Park). Growing tensions amongst every group of Americans were setting the country up for a showdown between Abolitionists, and Slave Owners.

Other social reforms were happening at this time period. The admissions requirements for Oberlin college, “Rearranged” (Limp Bizket) the way people began to view a higher education. Oberlin, in 1833, was the first college to allow women and minorities into its classrooms.

John Brown was a man who decided to “Fight For Your Right” (The Beastie Boys) in the conflict against slavery. Brown, believing that he was divinely called to end the reign of slavery, attempted to fuel an uprising of slaves. He tried to raid an armory at Haper’s Ferry, Virginia, but he was caught and hung for his actions. Brown would become a symbol to the South about how their “way of life” was being attacked by those from the North.

One last ditch effort was made to “Let It Be” (The Beatles), and stave off the Civil War. John Crittenden, a Senator from Kentucky, suggested that the 36 30 line be extended to the Pacific Ocean, and that north of the line would remain free states, and south of it would remain slave states. His suggestion was rejected.

The election of Abraham Lincoln would mark the “End Of The Road” (Boyz II Men) for negotiating the issue of slavery. The President from the anti-slavery Republican Party, prompted the South to “Raise Up” (Petey Pablo feat. Timbaland), and secede from the Union. Prior to the South leaving the US government, southern congressman made up the majority of congress, and could have blocked any anti-slavery legislation Lincoln would attempt to pass. The North, now looking at a government with no Southerners,

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decided that “Since U Been Gone” (Kelly Clarkson), we can now change the focus of government to abolishing slavery.

The Civil War would have many momentum shifts for both warring factions. The South appeared to have the early edge, however when General Sherman decided to leave a path of destruction “On The Way Down” (Ryan Cabrera) to the Pacific, the war’s outcome was anything but certain. Finally at Gettysburg, the momentum would “Switch” (Will Smith) for the final time, and to the North’s favor.

Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: ReconstructionSong List:

“Respect” by Aretha Franklin“It’s Alright To Be A Redneck” by Alan Jackson

“Hit The Road Jack” by Ray Charles“Give It Away” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

“Slide” by The Goo Goo Dolls“Here Without You” by 3 Doors Down

“Lets Get Together” by The Youngbloods “Why Don’t You Get A Job” by Offspring

“Walk This Way” by Aerosmith (feat. Run DMC)“I’m A Thug” by Trick Daddy

“Borderline” by Madonna“Runaway” by Bon Jovi

“YMCA” by The Village People

Following the Civil war, minorities were expecting to finally get some “Respect” (Aretha Franklin) from the US government. Unfortunately, many people in the South decided that “It’s Alright To Be A Redneck” (Alan Jackson), and enacted laws know as Jim Crow, and also participated in the rise of the Ku Klux Klan. Many would declare themselves the “Solid South”, and cry that “the South shall rise again”.

Andrew Johnson was the man who took over after Lincoln’s assassination. Many from the beginning of his Presidency did not like him, and the House of Representatives would eventually tell him to “Hit The Road Jack” (Ray Charles), by impeaching him. The Senate would acquit Johnson by a single vote.

Reconstruction in the South became the focus of the time period. Not only did the cities need to be rebuilt, but the structure of society as well since slavery was now outlawed. Plantation owners were supposed to take some of their land and “Give It Away” (Red Hot Chili Peppers) to former slaves. Instead, they invented a system of sharecropping, which loans were made to former slaves for farming equipment, which they would use on “shared land” that they would have to maintain. In theory, the money made off the land would allow them to pay off the loans. However, African-Americans often could not afford to payback the loans, and sharecropping would cause them to “Slide” (Goo Goo Dolls) into a new form of slavery that kept them trying to pay off loans

The late 1800’s saw the rise of Big Business. Resurgence in the economic philosophy of Laissez Faire had industrialists like Andrew Carnegie telling government that his business ventures should exist “Here Without You” (3 Doors Down). The steel tycoon Carnegie would later decide to, “Lets Get Together” (The Youngbloods) with other companies that have steel interests. These enormous conglomerates, known as Trusts, created monopolies and began to drive up prices on the American consumer.

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Monopolists like Carnegie, Rockefeller, and JP. Morgan became know as “The Robber Barons”.

The late 1800’s also would see the rise of the labor force in the United States. Unions began to form, and would become a powerful force that would speak to the common man and say, “Why Don’t You Get A Job” (Offspring)… and join the union. Unions would tell businesses to “Walk This Way” (Aerosmith feat. Run DMC), and make changes that would benefit the common man.

By the 1860’s-70’s political corruption was a large part of politics in the city of New York. William “Boss” Tweed had no problem letting people know that “I’m A Thug” (Trick Daddy). “Boss” Tweed, from his Tammany Hall headquarters, stole more than $200 from the public in a 6-year period, and was finally convicted in 1871.

Another form of political corruption that took hold in the 1870’s was that of Gerrymandering. Gerrymandering is the process of redrawing the “Borderline” (Madonna) of political boundaries for voters. Lines would often be drawn specifically into districts that would favor one party over another. With all the corruption, joblessness, and overcrowding in the East, Frederick Jackson Turner attempted to popularize the idea of becoming a “Runaway” (Bon Jovi), and move west. His idea was very popular, and it became known as his “Safety Valve Theory”

Another social movement of this time period was that of the Social Gospel. The Social Gospel was aimed at helping the poor. Through this enlightenment, organizations such as the “YMCA” (The Village People), and Salvation Army were created.

Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: Late 19th Century Reform–WW I

Song List: “Hollaback Girl” by Gwen Stefani

“Click Click Boom” by Saliva“My Way” by Limp Bizkit

“Land Down Under” by Men At Work“Back 2 Good” by Matchbox 20

“Down With The Sickness” by Disturbed“Help” by The Beatles

“The Kids Aren’t Alright” by Offspring“Jump Around” by House Of Pain

“Panama” by Van Halen “For The Love Of Money” by The O’Jay’s

“Get Up, Get Out” by Godsmack“Crash Into Me” by the Dave Mathews Band

“I Stand Alone” by Godsmack“My Sacrifice” by Creed

“It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday” by Boyz II Men“Sell Out” by Reel Big Fish

By the end of the 19th century, “Hollaback Girl(s)” (Gwen Stefani) such as Susan B. Anthony, Carrie Catt, and Alice Paul were making big advancements for Women’s suffrage. America was now only about two decades away from allowing voting rights for women.

The biggest shock at the turn of the century for America, would be dealing with another Presidential assassination. President William McKinley would hear a “Click Click Boom” (Saliva) while standing in a receiving line, where an anarchist shot him twice. President Theodore Roosevelt (TR) would take over for the second US President that was assassinated.

Thanks to a dynamic campaign by the Republican Party, US citizens began to think that primary elections for the President should be done “My Way” (Limp Bizkit). Up until the turn of the 20th century, the party nominating them had always selected Presidential candidates. That would now change with other voting reforms as well. The US would adopt a new style of ballot that came from a “Land Down Under” (Men At Work). The Australian Ballot is the secret ballot style that Americans are familiar with today.

Teddy Roosevelt’s Presidential terms are often associated with the policy of Trust-Busting. Roosevelt took an active role in the break up of trusts, in an attempt to get

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things “Back 2 Good” (Matchbox 20) for the American consumer, who had been putting up with inflated prices for a while now. Another one of TR’s progressive reforms was to make sure did not have to worry about eating food and then coming “Down With The Sickness” (Disturbed). In 1906 the Meat Inspection and Food and Drug Acts were passed, creating the foundation for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Progressivism was the popular mindset of the early 20th century, and the governor from Wisconsin had another idea about how to “Help” (The Beatles) average Americans. Robert LaFollette proposed that the government should begin to provide welfare benefits to its citizens. His idea is the foundation for the modern welfare program that would be enacted under Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s (Teddy’s cousin) own Presidential administration.

Following the progressive pattern set by TR, in 1916 the Keating-Owens Act stated that “The Kids Aren’t Alright” (Offspring), and would bar the all products produced with child labor.

The United States would follow the example set by all other powers in the world, and began to “Jump Around” (House Of Pain) in an effect to acquire colonies abroad. One of the most important interventions outside of the US would be in the country of “Panama” (Van Halen). The US would prevent the Colombian military from preventing a coup in the country, and would quickly recognize the new government so that a contract for the Panama Canal could be acquired.

Another aspect of American foreign policy was called “Dollar Diplomacy”. President Taft would allow the transport of money to foreign countries, but only to governments who, “For The Love Of Money” (The O’Jay’s), would be Pro-US. Taft influenced the rise of many governments abroad, all in an effort to gain wealth for the US.

Facing the beginning a large-scale European war, President Woodrow Wilson issued a new aspect to foreign policy. Wilson’s Mobile Doctrine would state that any country would have to “Get Up, Get Out” (Godsmack) of another country’s internal affairs. Wilson would stay with this policy until unrestricted submarine warfare by the German’s let to worries about what might happen when torpedoes“Crash Into Me” (Dave Mathews Band). The US had a long tradition of an “I Stand Alone” (Godsmack) policy, known as isolationism, which dictated the US should stay out of foreign affairs. Wilson finally made the decision that “My Sacrifice” (Creed) to America should be to get the US involved in the Great War, in an effort to better the world. Wilson’s 14 Points gave hope for a long lasting peace with the US breaking from its isolationist stance. Congress back home decided that “It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday” (Boyz II Men), and would “Sell Out” (Reel Big Fish) Wilson on his idea of joining a League of Nations.

Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: 1920’s - FDRSong List:

“Closing Time” by Semisonic“You Learn” by Alanis Morrisette

“Faith” by Limp Bizkit“It’s Goin’ Down” by Linkin Park (feat. The X-ecutioners)

“Meant To Live” by Switchfoot“Living On A Prayer” by Bon Jovi

“Boulevard Of Broken Dreams” by Green Day“Work It” by Missy Elliot

“Youth Of The Nation” by P.O.D.“Blowing In The Wind” by Joan Baez

After years of fighting, it was finally “Closing Time” (Semisonic) for all bars in the United States. The eighteenth amendment to the constitution would last for only 14 years, because the fight to eliminate alcohol in the US was a very difficult one. After a while, “You Learn” (Alanis Morrisette) that getting rid of alcohol is a losing battle, and prohibition was ended.

The early 20th century would be a time where Americans would grapple with issues regarding “Faith” (Limp Bizket). A new battle between the theory of evolution (Darwinism) and religious fundamentalism (word of the bible believed to be divinely inspired) took place in the Scopes Monkey Trial in 1925. This time period also gave rise to the leadership of new religious leaders like Billy Sunday, who would preach individualistic faith rather than church doctrine.

The 1920’also was a time where Harlem New York was the place where “It’s Goin’ Down” (Linkin Park feat. The X-ecutioners). The Harlem Renaissance brought about the music styling of Jazz, a new breed of art that depicted inner city life for African-Americans, and a surge of “black literature” that would make the rural South, and urban North of the US famous throughout the world. A black social leader of the time was Marcus Garvey, and he said that Africans were not “Meant To Live” (Switchfoot) in the white man’s world. Garvey started a philosophy known as Pan-Africanism, which dictated complete segregation of all people along color lines.

The late 1920’s will forever be remembered as a time where Americans were living on the “Boulevard Of Broken Dreams” (Green Day) during the Great Depression. The Great Depression was caused in 1929 by over speculation within the banks, and it sent the US into an economic stagnation that would not end until entering into World War II almost 12 years later. With Hoovervilles (makeshift shanty-towns named after President Hoover) popping up all over the US, Hoover was voted out of office, and replaced by Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who promised Americans a New Deal. FDR’s first goal was to confront the Great Depression by getting Americans into jobs, and “Work It” (Missy Elliot) into the history books. FDR would have Americans “Work It”

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in many ways. The WPA, CCC, and FERA would eventually help the US pull itself out of the depression. FDR also put emphasis on the “Youth Of The Nation” (P.O.D.), by creating the National Youth Administration, which created jobs and educational opportunities for America’s youth.

Dust began “Blowing In The Wind” (Joan Baez), in 1933 as well when a drought and severe winds began to blow away tons of topsoil in the Southwest. The “Dust Bowl” is depicted in the classic American novel, “The Grapes of Wrath”, written by John Steinbeck.

Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: World War IISong List:

“The Memory Remains” by Metallica“You Dropped A Bomb On Me” by The Gap Band

“Get Back” by Ludacris“Atomic Dog” by George Clinton

“#1” by Nelly

After the First World War, “The Memory Remains” (Metallica) about the sacrifices made to help Europe out of the problems created by Europeans. Once again, The United States would remain neutral as Europe went to war with itself.

The threat of conflict with the Empire of Japan had loomed for a while as well. Again, the US would remain neutral. It wasn’t until the US had endured the attack at Pearl Harbor, and could now look at Japan and say, “You Dropped A Bomb On Me” (The Gap Band), that America would finally enter World War II. Keeping with the promises of the Axis Powers, Germany and Italy declared war on the US the same day the Japanese did.

It would take nearly 3 years for the US to prepare for the invasion of Europe. That day would come on June 6th, 1944. D-Day, as it became known, would be the turning point on the western front for the Nazis. After failing to prevent the Allied landing force in France, the Nazis could only retreat and “Get Back” (Ludacris) to Berlin as fast as they could. Once the retreat began, it would not stop until the Nazi regime had been beaten.

The war with Japan would take a little longer to end. The turning point was the Battle of Midway, and after that the Japanese would continue to retreat back to the main island of Japan. The war would finally end after the US unleashed the “Atomic Dog” (George Clinton) on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

After the Second World War, the US would emerge as the “#1” (Nelly) superpower in the world. The Soviet Union would provide the US with competition on the world stage for power, setting up the next era of American History: The Cold War.

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Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: Cold War – 50’s & 60’s ReformSong List:

“Mama Said Knock You Out” by LL Cool J“I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” by U2

“Want You Bad” by Offspring“Higher” by Creed

“Anytime” by Brian McKnight“Goodbye To You” by Michelle Branch

“Changes” by 2Pac“Black Or White” by Michael Jackson

“Freedom Fighter” by Creed“Men In Black” by Will Smith

“Mysterious Ways” by U2

In the 1947, President Truman examined the situation with Communism, and decided that “Mama Said Knock You Out” (LL Cool J). Truman enacted a policy towards the Soviet Union known as containment, in an attempt to prevent the USSR from acquiring any more territory. On the home front, Joseph McCarthy would lead the investigation into how many Communists were living in the US. He would interview, and detain many people to inquire about their beliefs and goals regarding Communism. Deciding that “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” (U2), McCarthy would continue his investigation, and cause the “Red Scare’ in the process by creating a large-scale paranoia among US citizens.

Another attempt to curtail the spread of Communism was made in 1961. The “Bay of Pigs”, as it became known, was when the US let Communist dictator Fidel Castro know that we “Want You Bad” (Offspring), and attempted to overthrow him on the island of Cuba. The US failed to kick Castro out. The “Bay of Pigs” also created a situation where Castro knew the US may try to go after him again. This would later prompt Castro to take a bold new policy towards the US…

One of the first races in the Cold War put the focus much “Higher” (Creed) for both the US and the USSR. The Space Race was ignited when the Soviets launched Sputnik into orbit, and the Americans were now attempting to decide how to catch up. One of the biggest projects the US would put money into was intelligence gathering on the Soviets. By 1960, a plane known as the U2, was being used by the CIA to take photographs of anything the US government wanted to, “Anytime” (Brian McKnight) they wanted. A major conflict was averted because of the use of the U2 in 1962, when it was discovered that the USSR was putting nuclear missiles into Cuba. The Cuban Missile Crisis almost led to a nuclear conflict, but through negotiations on the world platform within the United Nations, the conflict was prevented.

*All images from amazon.com

Socially, the US was changing as well during the 1950’s. Unions once again had regained much of their power, but organized crime had not gone away either. The leader of the Teamster’s Union, Jimmy Hoffa, was a man with mafia connections, and he decided to take money from the union to invest in a casino of his. Many leaders in organized crime would later kidnap him, and say “Goodbye To You” Michelle Branch)

Other “Changes” (2Pac) were being made in the 50’s and 60’s due to the fact that the Civil Rights Movement was in full effect during this time period. In 1948, the military was desegregated. In 1954, the court decision of Brown vs. The Board of Education had made it illegal to allow schools to be “Black Or White” (Michael Jackson). Segregation in public schools was now outlawed, and the first to desegregate was Central high School in Little Rock, Arkansas, but that would not happen until 1957. In 1955, Rosa Parks was thrown in jail for violation of segregation laws on a bus, and the Montgomery Bus-Boycott would bring international attention to the plight of minorities in the US.

More people decided to take on the role of a “Freedom Fighter” (Creed) during the 60’s when segregation on interstate travel was challenged by the Freedom Riders. In 1963, The March on Washington was the platform where Dr, Martin Luther King Jr. gave his “I Have A Dream” speech. A year later in the Civil Rights bill would be passed, and segregation officially ended in the United States. Another big part of the Civil rights movement was the “Black Power” movement that originated among the “Men In Black” (Will Smith), or Nation of Islam. The Black Muslims had been founded in 1931 by Elijah Muhammad, and traditionally rejected any part of white culture. They took on new leaders in the 60’s, such as Malcolm X.

Women were having their own Civil Rights Movement at this time as well. Rachel Carson was a prominent female author that was bringing attention to the problems caused by a pesticide known as DDT. Another author that had her own “Mysterious Ways” (U2), and that was Betty Friedan who gained notoriety for writing “The Feminine Mystique” in 1963. The National Organization of Women (NOW) was also created as a result of the feminist movement.

Mr. T’s Soundtrack Review: Vietnam – The 1990’sSong List:

“What If” by Creed“Welcome To The Jungle” Guns N Roses

“Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones“Nice And Slow” by Usher

“Basket Case” by Green Day“Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” by Good Charlotte

“Bombs Over Baghdad (B.O.B.)” by Outkast

The question of “What If” (Creed) Communism is allowed to spread into Vietnam, plagued the US during the 1960’s. The Domino Theory as it became known, was the reason the US would get involved in Vietnam. It was thought that if Communism were allowed to spread to Vietnam, then it would spread to all of South Asia.

Guerilla fighters, known as the Viet Cong (VC), said to the US “Welcome To The Jungle” (Guns N Roses). The VC began fighting a covert war using a lot of guerilla and urban warfare tactics. The VC knew they could not win a war against the US in open combat, so they decided to fight “Nice And Slow” (Usher), in an attempt to make American citizens lose the will to fight. The plan was very effective. After years of fighting, US citizens decided “I Can’t Get No…Satisfaction” (The Rolling Stones).

By the end of the Vietnam War, the political voices in the US created an atmosphere where Americans lost confidence in the political system. Leaders like President Richard Nixon, and Governor George Wallace were openly considered by most to be a “Basket Case” (Green Day).

The 1980’s would see a revival of conservative beliefs, ushered in by the election of President Ronald Reagan. Reagan brought about an economic policy that became known as “Reaganomics”. Reaganomics was a “trickle down” approach to cutting taxes, and it greatly benefited the “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” (Good Charlotte). The 80’s were a time where the rich got richer, and the poor got poorer.

By 1991, the Soviet Union had collapsed, but the hostilities involving the US had not ended. When Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein decided to invade Kuwait, the US sent “Bombs Over Baghdad (B.O.B.)” (Outkast), and forced Hussein to retreat from his expansionist conquests.

*All images from amazon.com