1880s—1890s: From May to October of 1893, an estimated 27 million people attend Chicago's World's Columbian Exposition (World Fair). The fair introduces many new inventions, from zippers to the Ferris wheel, as well as new architecture and machinery. The exhibition reflects contemporary confidence in human progress.

Today: The tradition of world fairs continues. In 2000, Expo 2000 takes place in Hanover, Germany. The theme is "Man, Nature and Technology," and 187 countries participate.

1880s—1890s: Irish immigration to the United States continues but is lower than during the 1860s and 1870s. Many Irish, who are also predominantly Catholic, face resentment and discrimination in largely Protestant America.

Today: More than 43 million people in the United States claim Irish descent. Irish immigration to the United States is only a small fraction of what it was more than a hundred years ago.

1880s—1890s: Conservatives within the Methodist...