Demographic Change
Unit description: After World War II, the population of the United States rose sharply as a result of both natural increases and immigration. Population movements have resulted in changes to the American landscape and shifting political power. An aging population is affecting the economy and straining public resources. In this unit students will examine the impact of the war on shifts in the population, demographics and infrastructure of America.
Download the complete Grade 8 Social Studies Unit 8 framework to customize for your own planning.
Standards
Standards: 1, 3, 4, 5; Themes: ID, GEO, SOC, GOV, ECO
Essential Questions and Big Ideas
Big ideas of the unit: After World War II, the population of the United States rose sharply.
What were the effects of the various shifts in population and demographics following World War II?
- After World War II, the United States experienced various shifts in population and demographics that resulted in social, political, and economic consequences.
How did the immigration and migration trends change after World War II?
- The postwar United States experienced increasing immigration, debates over immigration policy, and an increase in cultural diversity.
How has large scale industrialization and other massive changes following the war put added stress on the global environment?
- Pollution, population growth, the consumption of natural resources, clearing of land for human sustenance, and large-scale industrialization have put added stress on the global environment.