AP U.S. History Flashcards: Challenges of the 21st Century
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 11 cards to help you master important concepts.
What was the global status of the United States in the 21st century, despite its challenges?
Despite facing significant economic and foreign policy challenges, the United States maintained its position as the world’s leading superpower.
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What was the global status of the United States in the 21st century, despite its challenges?
Despite facing significant economic and foreign policy challenges, the United States maintained its position as the world’s leading superpower.
What was the primary U.S. response to the 9/11 attacks?
In the wake of the 9/11 attacks, the United States launched military efforts against terrorism, leading to long conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.
21st Century International Challenges for the U.S.
Major international challenges included military efforts against terrorism, lengthy conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq, and concerns about global climate change.
21st Century Domestic Challenges for the U.S.
Key domestic challenges included debates over civil liberties versus security, dependence on fossil fuels, and the environmental impact of economic consumption.
What was the relationship between economic consumption and environmental debates in the 21st century?
Debates arose over the impact of U.S. economic consumption on the environment, particularly concerning fossil fuel use and its connection to climate change.
What were the key characteristics of the U.S. conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq?
These conflicts, part of the war on terrorism, were lengthy and controversial, sparking significant debate both domestically and internationally.
How did U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East connect to domestic environmental debates?
Conflicts in the Middle East highlighted U.S. dependence on fossil fuels, which intensified domestic debates about economic consumption's impact on the environment and climate change.
What two major issues fueled debates over U.S. energy policy in the 21st century?
Conflicts in the Middle East and growing concerns about climate change led to debates over U.S. dependence on fossil fuels and its environmental impact.
A politician in 2004 argues that new government surveillance programs are necessary for safety. What counter-argument would this likely face?
The counter-argument would raise questions about the protection of civil liberties and human rights, a key debate during the war on terrorism.
What fundamental tension arose from domestic policies enacted during the war on terrorism?
The war on terrorism raised questions about how to balance the goal of improving security within the U.S. with the protection of civil liberties and human rights.
War on Terrorism
The U.S.-led military effort against terrorism launched after the 9/11 attacks, which included lengthy and controversial conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.