Period 9 makes up only about 4–6% of the AP Exam and does not include essay questions, but it remains highly significant. It is the only period most students have personally experienced, and it has profoundly shaped today’s political, social, and economic landscape. This era includes the end of the Cold War, the rise of modern conservatism (including the influence of Trump), and the War on Terror. Although it is difficult to determine the most historically significant events without long-term perspective, many developments from this period will likely prove enduring. This is your final period of study.
Key Concepts
-- Key Concept 9.1 — A newly ascendant conservative movement achieved several political and policy goals during the 1980s and continued to strongly influence public discourse in the following decades.
-- Key Concept 9.2 — Moving into the 21st century, the nation experienced significant technological, economic, and demographic changes.
-- Key Concept 9.3 — The end of the Cold War and new challenges to U.S. leadership forced the nation to redefine its foreign policy and role in the world.
Time Period: 2 weeks