If you were good at history in school or enjoy watching the History Channel, this test shouldn’t be too difficult. That said, I’d caution against relying solely on TV documentaries. Most popular history tends to focus heavily on westward expansion and the world wars, but the History of the United States II CLEP covers a much broader range of topics. While there are some questions about western territories gaining statehood, the bulk of the exam focuses on political, cultural, economic, and international developments from the post-Civil War era into the late 20th century. One major theme is the women’s suffrage movement. You'll need to understand both the early push for women’s suffrage and the economic shifts that led to more women entering the workforce. Labor history also features prominently, including the rise of labor unions, the reasons behind their formation, and the government’s role in regulating big business. Don’t be surprised to see questions about the U.S. government’s efforts to break up monopolies. Knowing who earned the nickname “The Trustbuster” (hint: Theodore Roosevelt) will definitely come in handy. It’s also a good idea to study the constitutional amendments passed during this period and understand their significance. The early versions of the exam focused on the period leading up to the 1940s and didn't go too deep into World War I and II. So if you're a war history buff, you may be disappointed to find they're only lightly covered. There are a few questions about the Korean and Vietnam Wars, particularly regarding their causes and their influence on American culture. We are getting reports that people are getting asked about topics leading all the way into the 90's and early 2000's; so don't skip any of the later topics! Overall, this exam isn’t overly difficult, but it does go into more depth than the first U.S. history CLEP. A bit of extra study will go a long way in making sure you’re ready to pass with confidence.