Here's an analysis of '*ism' word frequency patterns across decades in COHA: 1820s-1850s: Early decades show high frequencies of religious and political terms like "baptism," "patriotism," and "despotism." "Patriotism" peaks in the 1830s, while "baptism" reaches its highest point in the 1850s. These reflect the prominence of religious discourse and nation-building concerns in antebellum America. 1860s-1890s: This period sees the rise of scientific and philosophical terms like "organism," "mechanism," and "realism." "Antagonism" and "barbarism" show notable presence. New political ideologies emerge with "socialism" and "nationalism" appearing in the data. This aligns with post-Civil War industrialization and scientific advancement. 1900s-1930s: Political ideologies dominate with peak frequencies of "communism," "fascism," "socialism," and "bolshevism." "Criticism" reaches its highest levels. "Individualism" shows significant presence. "Militarism" spikes in the 1910s, coinciding with WWI. This reflects the era's intense ideological conflicts. 1940s-1970s: Cold War terms remain prominent with "communism" reaching its absolute peak in the 1950s. "Racism" emerges and increases steadily. "Marxism" gains frequency. "Journalism" shows consistent growth. This matches the period's political tensions and social movements. 1980s-2010s: Contemporary issues emerge strongly: "terrorism" spikes post-2000, "racism" maintains high frequency, "tourism" and "autism" show marked increases. "Journalism" continues upward trend. "Activism" gains prominence. Earlier political terms like "communism" and "socialism" decline significantly. This reflects modern social concerns and global issues. The data shows clear shifts from religious/political terminology in early decades, through scientific/philosophical terms in the middle period, to contemporary social issues in recent decades.