Class Discussion
The following questions can be used to stimulate class discussion after all groups have shared their scrapbooks.
Did the fair meet most people's expectations? Or did it exceed/fall short of expectations? Why?
Which roles would have perceived the fair in a positive way? Which would have reacted negatively? Why?
How were images of identity (race, national origin, religion, power, wealth, etc.) demonstrated at the fair? What were some of the differences between the way various groups were portrayed?
How was the fair representative of late 19th century American consumerism? Consider the differing perspectives a factory owner viewing the fair as compared to a factory worker.
How does the fair attempt to show America's role and status in the world? What is America trying to say about itself to the international visitor at the fair?
Did the fair meet most people's expectations? Or did it exceed/fall short of expectations? Why?
Which roles would have perceived the fair in a positive way? Which would have reacted negatively? Why?
How were images of identity (race, national origin, religion, power, wealth, etc.) demonstrated at the fair? What were some of the differences between the way various groups were portrayed?
How was the fair representative of late 19th century American consumerism? Consider the differing perspectives a factory owner viewing the fair as compared to a factory worker.
How does the fair attempt to show America's role and status in the world? What is America trying to say about itself to the international visitor at the fair?