APUSH Test - Chapter 25 --) 32

What famous strikes/protests came from these movements?

"Coxey's Army" (AKA the "Commonweal Army") marched on Washington with scores of followers and many newspaper reporters. They called for:Relieving unemployment by a government public works program. An issuance of $500 million in paper money. Both of these would create inflation and therefore make debts easier to pay off. The Pullman Strike in Chicago, led by Eugene Debs, was more dramatic. Debs helped organize the workers of the Pullman Palace Car Company. The company was hit hard by the depression and cut wages by about 1/3. Workers went on strike, sometimes violently. U.S. Attorney General Richard Olney called in federal troops to break up the strike. His rationale: the strike was interfering with the transit of U.S. mail.

What about the last "C", conservation?

Teddy Roosevelt's presidency truly started a new era in conservation. Roosevelt was a consummate outdoorsman, was very concerned about the nation's timber and mineral depletion, and started the conservation movement with action. Roosevelt set aside 125 million acres of forest land (3 times the acreage of his 3 predecessors). Large quantities of land were also set aside for coal and water reserves. Purely as an example, he had no White House Christmas tree in 1902.

What happened in the election of 1924?

1924 was a presidential election year. Calvin Coolidge was to be reelected for the Republicans as a conservative. John W. Davis was nominated by the Democrats after much debate. In the changing times, Democrats had a hard time defining themselves and their positions at their convention in New York City The Progressive party refused to die and nominated Sen. Robert La Follette. He was endorsed by the American Federation of Labor (A.F. of L.) labor union and by the Socialists and would receive a sizable 5 million votes. Still, times were good, thus Coolidge was reelected easily.

What was the Red Scare?

A "Red Scare" (a fear of communism) emerged. This fear was fueled by (1) the recent Russian revolution, (2) Eugene Debs growing numbers, (3) loads of strikes, and (4) a series of mail bombs. The logic went that communism was from Europe—all the more reason to shun foreigners and their ways. Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti were Italian immigrants accused of murder. They were convicted largely because of these sentiments.

What event greatly challenged the U.S.'s neutrality?

A German U-Boat sunk the Lusitainia, a British cruise liner. 1200 people died. Americans had been warned of a possible attack. Still, the effect was to motivate many Americans to call for war.

What happened during the coal strike in Pennsylvania?

A strike took place in 1902 at the anthracite coal mines of Pennsylvania. The workers called for a 20% pay increase and a reduction of work hours from 10 to 9 hours. Coal supplies dwindled and the nation felt the effects of the coal shortage so TR called in strike workers to the White House. Roosevelt was not impressed with the strike leaders. Roosevelt finally threatened to use federal troops to operate the mines. At this threat, the owners agreed to go to arbitration. The workers were given a 10% increase and the 9 hour day. This was the first time the U.S. government came out in support of laborers and not big business

How did the flying develop at this time?

After WWI planes really got going. They were used for air mail. The first transcontinental airmail route started from New York to San Francisco in 1920. America got a hero when Charles Lindbergh was the first to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927. It took him 33 1/2 hours, he won a $25,000 prize, and instantly became a celebrity.

The cities were predominately on the east coast. What was happening in the west - especially with the natives?

After the civil war, the west was still largely untamed. Natives fought with each other, and the settlers, as disease caused great suffering. Settlers also struck at a valuable resource - the buffalo. The U.S. Army's new mission was to clear out the West of Indians for white settlers to move in. The so-called "Indian Wars" took place roughly from 1864-1890 (from the Sand Creek Massacre to the Battle of Wounded Knee). It was really less of a war than a long series of skirmishes, battles, and massacres. The Indians were subdued due to (1) railroads, (2) diseases, (3) lack of buffalo, (4) war, and (5) the loss of their land to white settlement

What was happening with the economy at this time?

After the immediate post-war recession, the 1920's generally enjoyed a robust economy. This is because of consumerism, factories operating on cheap fuel and advertisements. Movies, radio and print unify the country and forge a national economy.

What were the tell-tale signs of a looming depression?

Always the prelude to recession or depression, there was too much speculation in too-risky areas during the 20's. The stock market was the speculator's paradise in the 20's. The desire to get rich quick on rising stock prices created a "buy-now" feeling. This is turn, drove the market higher, and built on that buy-now feeling, artificially. Worse, many people bought "on margin", meaning they bought with borrowed money. Usually 10% was paid up-front, 90% borrowed. That meant wild profits if the stock went up, wild debt if it dropped. This type of structure was like building a house of cards, it could not stand forever.

What shift happened in American life following the Civil War?

America began a shift from farms to cities. From 1870 to 1900 city population tripled. A revolution in factory labor, as well as agricultural competition drew people to urban areas. Furthermore, life on the farm was also revolutionized; more food would need to be grown with less people, sparking rapid development in the field of agriculture.

How did America come to gain Hawaii?

America largely regarded Hawaii as an unofficial part of the U.S. America had warned other nations to leave Hawaii alone (or, leave Hawaii to the U.S.). American fruit and sugar companies were deeply entrenched in Hawaii. They largely ran the islands due to their economic power. The sugar companies grew restless. Concerns were that (a) Japan might try to take over and (b) the McKinley tariff had raised prices of Hawaiian sugar/fruit imported to the U.S. In 1893, the whites staged a revolt and the U.S. military helped to dethrone the queen. Notably, this was all done locally in Hawaii, completely unofficially from Washington D.C. Papers were drawn up to annex Hawaii and sent to Washington. Grover Cleveland had just become president and he didn't like the way Hawaii was taken and stopped the annexation. (The U.S. would get Hawaii 5 years later, in 1898).

How was the Panama Canal built?

America, and Teddy Roosevelt, lusted after a canal across isthmus of Central America. After negotiating with the British to waive a prior treaty, Congress decided on Panama as the location of the canal. Panama was a part of Colombia at the time. TR worked a deal with the Colombian president to lease the canal zone, but the Colombian senate reneged on the deal. TR incited Panama to revolt against Colombia. The revolution began on November 3, 1901 with the killing of a Chinese citizen and a donkey. The U.S. navy was conveniently offshore to give aid and the revolution was pulled off.

How did the Pilipino's react to their annexation?

An insurrection began against the American troops by the Filipinos on February 4, 1899. Their leader was Emilio Aguinaldo, who'd fought with the U.S. and against Spain. Like most Filipino's, he'd believed the Philippines would gain independence from Spain. When it didn't happen, he simply turned his aggression toward the U.S. To quell the unrest, McKinley sent William H. Taft to serve as the Philippines' civil governor. He got along with the Pilipino's. Under Taft, America pursued a policy called "benevolent assimilation"—to kindly bring the Philippines up to civilization. The process was slow but it bore fruits.

Who were the muckrakers? Who are some famous muckrakers?

Around 1902, a new group of social critics emerged—the muckrakers. They typically exposed what they saw as corruption or injustice in writings. Lincoln Steffens wrote "The Shame of the Cities" (1902) which exposed city corruption in cahoots with big business. Ida Tarbell wrote an exposé in McClure's that laid bare the ruthless business tactics of John D. Rockefeller and the Standard Oil Company. Some thought she was just out for revenge because her father's business had been ruined by Rockefeller. But, all of her facts checked out.

What did President Wilson do with regard to the tariff?

As a Progressive, Woodrow Wilson entered the White House saying he wished to attack what he termed the "triple wall of privilege": the tariff, the banks, and trusts. Wilson sought to bring the tariff down. He helped Congress pass the Underwood Tariff (1913) which did two main things. It considerably reduced tariff rates on imports. It started a graduated income tax (the tax rate went up as a person's salary went up). The 16th Amendment had recently been passed legalizing an income tax, the Underwood Tariff law simply laid out the rules.

What were Hoover's early moves?

At first, Hoover enjoyed the economic prosperity of the day. Hoover's philosophy of helping one's self prompted his to get the Agricultural Marketing Act passed. It set up a Federal Farm Board which was to lend money to farmers. Isolationism was carried in the economics as well as politics. The Hawley-Smoot Tariff was hiked up to almost 60%.

What was Taft's Presidency like?

At first, Taft seemed just fine. He was likable, seemed capable, had a solid background in experience. Tricky problems soon bogged him down. TR had been able to work through problems due to his force-of-personality and political instincts. Taft took a hands-off approach toward Congress which did not serve him well. He was a mild progressive only, more inclined toward the status quo than reform. Taft was more of a trust buster than Roosevelt; Taft brought 90 lawsuits against trusts during his 4 years in office

What happened in the election of 1900?

The 1900 election was a repeat of 4 years earlier: William McKinley versus William Jennings Bryan again.McKinley just held fast while Bryan did the personal campaigning. McKinley's running-mate was Teddy Roosevelt. "TR" did considerable campaigning for McKinley. McKinley won handily again.

What was the Stimson Doctrine?

The 1932 Stimson doctrine declared that the United States would not recognize any territorial acquisition achieved by force of arms.

What happened with literature

Books had always been popular, but by 1900 people were starving to read. Libraries and newspapers satisfied that urge. People read like wildfire after the Civil War. "Dime novels" were very popular, especially about the Wild West with characters like "Deadwood Dick." Newspapers were on the rise as well with the invention of Linotype. People were hungry to read the latest goings-on. Daily newspapers immensely helped unify the U.S. People were now much more on the "same page," literally, as someone in another section of the nation. Notably, this is when the popularity of national sports, especially baseball, took off since one could follow his team each day Magazines were popular, such as Harper's, Atlantic Monthly, and Scribner's. Editor Edwin L. Godkin's liberal magazine Nation was very influential. It was read by intellectuals and thinker-types and was reform minded. It pushed for civil service reform (government jobs based on talent, not connections), honest government, and a mild tariff.

How did people react to the struggles of the natives?

By the 1880's, the people were beginning to recognize the plight of the American Indian. Many whites wanted to try to help the Indians "walk the white man's road." Others felt the tough policies of containing Indians on reservations and punishing "hostiles" was the way to go. Native Americans faced a stark decision: to join modern times, stick with traditional ways, or somehow try to mix both. In 1887 the Dawes Severalty Act was passed. Its overall goal was to erase tribes and set the Indians on the road to "becoming white." The Dawes Act held the goal of killing the Indian way of life, and largely succeeded. In 1900, Indians held only 50% of the land they'd held just 20 years prior.

How did America turn outward in the in the 1900s? Why?

By the 1890's, America turned away from its isolationist policies and was beginning to look overseas, toward imperialism. The European nations had been gobbling up colonies all during the 1800's, now America wanted a slice of the world pie. Yellow journalism, or sensationalism in reporting, stirred up the desire to take over lands. Missionaries wanted to save souls in un-Christian lands. Social Darwinism led to a belief of benevolence.

What happened in the election of 1928?

Calvin Coolidge decided to not run for reelection in 1928. Sec. of Commerce Herbert Hoover became the nominee for Republicans and ran on the prosperity the 20's enjoyed. The Democrats nominated NY Gov. Alfred E. Smith. Smith had the people's touch, but he was Catholic (which turned off many) and he was a drinker (still the days of prohibition). Hoover won big.

How does the automobile change America?

Cars created 6 million new jobs and quickly became America's number one mode of transportation. Cars brought fundamental changes to America: Roads were now needed—there was a boom in paving and cars' accompanying gasoline industry started and mushroomed. There were social changes as well. Cars brought independence to young people who "dated" in them and America began to reshape itself by spreading out into suburbs.

What was happening in China?

China rebelled against foreigners - Boxer Rebellion. U.S. helps smash them and causes the Open Door Policy.

Describe the urban growth of America.

Cities quadrupled in size as growth was both upwards and outwards. Skyscrapers allowed small spaces of land to hold many people and the elevator made these buildings feasible. Electricity, indoor plumbing and telephones became common. Suburban sprawl also happened meaning public transit (trolleys and subways) also rose up to bring people to and from work. Distinct neighborhoods rose up as the city wasn't limited by walking distance but by defined boundaries.

How did congress restrict immigration?

Congress took action in the anti-foreign mood to limit immigrants from Europe, specifically "New Immigrants" (mostly from the southeastern Europe regions). The Emergency Quota Act of 1921 cut the number of immigrants who could enter America to 3% of their nationality's U.S. population in 1910. In 1924, the Immigration Act sliced the number down to 2% of a group's U.S. population in 1890. Changing from 1910 to 1890 (before many New Immigrants had arrived). This change clearly had racial undertones beneath it (New Immigrants out, Old Immigrants in).

How does the US get involved in Cuba?

Cuba revolted against Spain in 1895. America watched with interest and the U.S. rooted for the Cubans since (a) America loves liberty and independence, (b) it would be good for the Monroe Doctrine to get a European country out of the neighborhood, (c) Cuba was at the gateway to the Caribbean where the U.S. was dreaming of a Panama Canal. The U.S.S. Maine exploded at night in Havana harbor killing 260 American sailors. The cause of the explosion was a mystery, but in the public's mind, the cause was simple—Spain had done it. (Though still a bit of a mystery today, it was much later concluded that the explosion was an accident.) McKinley gave in to the public demand and on April 11, 1898 he sent a message to Congress asking for war. Congress happily voted for war.

How did farming change in the 1920s? How did Coolidge react?

During WWI, farmers had enjoyed a boom. There much much food needed, they provided it, and earned good money in doing so. After the war, new technologies like the tractor made farm work much easier and increased production. But, increased supply with the same demand yields decreased prices. Whereas many enjoyed an economic boom during the decade, farmers fell onto tough times during the 20's. Farmers turned to Congress. The Capper-Volstead Act was passed exempting farmer cooperatives from antitrust laws. The McNary-Haugen Bill tried to keep the price of agricultural goods high. This was to be done by the government buying up excess surpluses then selling them to other nations. Coolidge, the thrifty conservative, vetoed this bill twice.

How did farming change/improve?

Farmers used to grow and make whatever they needed. They now switched to growing "cash crops"—crops to be sold, not eaten or used Inventions turned farms into food-factories. Steam driven tractors could plow much more land than by mule or oxen. The "combine", a mix of reaper and thresher, harvested much more wheat. The drawback of these machines was that farmers got themselves into loads of debt. Many went bankrupt. The end result was that the small farmers faded and huge mega-farms emerged.

What was the Harding administration like?

Harding was a good man at heart, but he lacked the vigor of a strong leader. In Harding, the less-than-honest had the perfect front for their schemes. The "Old Guard", McKinley-style industrialists sought to further laissez-faire; in other words, to let business run wild and free. The Anti-trust laws which had been applied during the Progressive years were set aside. The Harding-era trend was clear for businesses: it's a go for expansion and free from fear that the government might interfere.

Why did TR win the Nobel Peace Prize?

He helped negotiate an end to the Russo-Japanese War.

What was Hoover's reaction to the Great Depression

Hoover's analysis was simple: this was a natural part of the "business cycle." The business cycle being the cyclical ups and downs of an economy, like a roller coaster. His solution was also simple: just wait it out. This is not what the people wanted to hear. Eventually, Hoover did go against his nature and get the government to take some action. Pres. Hoover got the government involved in the Great Depression by recommending Congress dole out $2.25 billion. The theory was to jump start the economy through government spending. The massive Boulder Dam was begun in 1930, completed in 1936, and renamed to Hoover Dam.

What was immigration like during this time?

Immigration spiked an changed dramatically. Before 1880, most immigrants to America were from "Old Immigration. They came from northern and western Europe—Britain, Ireland, Germany, Scandinavia. They largely came from nations with some democratic backgrounds and were of the fair-skinned Anglo-Saxon, protestant type. Around 1880, things changed over to "New Immigration." They came from southern and eastern Europe—Poland, Italy, Slovakia, Croatia. They largely came from nations with little democratic traditions. They were usually Catholic, uneducated, and were generally penniless. In 1880 they made up 19% of immigrants; 1910 they were up to 66% of immigrants. They generally came to areas consisting of their home-country neighbors. Places popped up like "Little Italy" and "Little Poland." Americans felt these newcomers could not or would not melt into the American way of life.

What was the Grange?

In 1869, the Grange (officially the National Grange of the Patrons of Husbandry) was started by Oliver H. Kelley. The Grange was a national farmers' organization aimed at advancing farmers' agenda. They set up "co-ops" (cooperatively owned stores) so farmers wouldn't have to sell to one grain elevator. They tried, and failed, to produce their own farm machinery. They got into politics, had some success in the Midwest, and sought to regulate railroads. These were called "Granger Laws."

What happened in the election of 1908?

In 1908, TR was still very popular. He used his popularity to endorse a candidate that had similar policies as himself—William Howard Taft. The Democrats put forth William Jennings Bryan yet again. Bryan also painted himself as a Progressive. Riding on TR's popularity, Taft won the election easily, 321 to 162 in the electoral. As a sign-of-the-times Socialist Party candidate Eugene Debs (of Pullman Strike fame) garnered a surprising 420,000 votes.

What was prohibition?

In 1919, the Eighteenth Amendment was passed prohibiting alcohol. Congress passed the Volstead Act later in the year to carry out the amendment. The amendment was more popular in the South and West. Many did not like the amendment. America has a long tradition of liking a strong drink and a weak government. Many folks violated or ignored the prohibition. There were positive results: bank savings increased and absences at work went down.

How did Wilson fight with the bankers?

In June of 1913 he asked a joint session of Congress to make broad reforms to the nation's banking system. Congress reacted and passed the monumental Federal Reserve Act (1913). The law created the Federal Reserve Board (appointed by the president) which oversaw 12 regional, federal banks. The Federal Reserve Board was given the power to issue paper money (AKA "Federal Reserve Notes"). Thus, it could regulate the amount of money in circulation by issuing, or holding back, paper money.

How did populism evolve during this time?

In the 1870's an organization very similar to the Grangers emerged—the Farmers' Alliance. Their goals were the same also: to socialize and to push the farmers' agenda. Out of the Farmers' Alliance a new party was spawned—the People's Party, also known as the Populist Party. They agreed on the following: To fight the "money trust" on Wall Street. To nationalize railroads, telephone, and the telegraph. To start a graduated income tax (graduated meaning steps or levels, where the tax rate is higher the more a person earns). To start a "sub-treasury" to provide loans to farmers. To call for the unlimited coinage of silver. In 1892, the Populists won several seats in Congress. Their candidate, again James B. Weaver, earned over 1,000,000 votes.

What happened to the labor/veteran movements?

In the era of laissez-faire and pro-business policies, the labor movement struggled badly. A bloody strike was broken in 1919, crippling the labor movement. In 1922, the Railway Labor Board cut wages by 12%. This started a two month strike. Atty. Gen. Daugherty laid down a stinging injunction and crushed the strike. This was a near-death blow to labor unions and union enrollment dropped by 30%. Veterans began organizing. Teddy Roosevelt started the American Legion in Paris in 1919. Vets got together socially, but also for other reasons, mainly seeking money. The vets sought wages lost while away and/or veterans benefits. Their pressure got Congress to pass a "bonus" bill, Harding vetoed it. Congress passed another, the Adjusted Compensation Act, Pres. Calvin Coolidge vetoed it, but Congress overrode the veto.

What about African Americans at this time?

In the post-war South, many still struggled, especially blacks. They were largely poor and poorly educated. Booker T. Washington developed a plan for bettering the lots of blacks. He developed the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama. It was a normal school for black teachers and taught hands-on industrial trades. Washington's largest critic was W.E.B. DuBois. DuBois was a Harvard intellectual. He criticism was that Washington's method put blacks in a little box of manual labor only. DuBois help start the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) and called for the "talented tenth" of the black community to be given full access and equality.

What happened with the tariff?

In the pro-business mood of the time period, businesses sought to up the tariff to protect themselves from cheaper European goods. They got their wish in the Fordney-McCumber Tariff which increased tariff rates from 27 to 38.5%. Presidents Harding and Coolidge were given the authority to fluctuate the tariff all the way up to 50%. And, being pro-business men at heart, they leaned toward the higher rather than lower tariffs.

What happened to religion with regard to the increase in urbanization?

In the shift to the cities, churches seemed to be losing their place in society. Within this set of circumstances, religious changes would occur. Membership in the YMCA or YWCA (the Young Men's/Women's Christian Association) grew quickly. They mixed religion with exercise and activity.Some preachers had been influenced by Unitarianism of the the 2nd Great Awakening days. These liberal groups spun their own twist on religion: they rejected a literal interpretation of the bible, rejected original sin of mankind, and pushed for the social gospel. A good social gospel example was the Salvation Army which helped anyone struggling to make a go of things by doling out soup. The Roman Catholic and Jewish faiths were growing largely in numbers due to the New Immigration. America had 150+ varieties of faiths by 1890.

What happened to rural life at this time.

Industrial jobs and exciting lifestyles drew people away from rural areas. Country dwellers produced little waste and scavenged for scraps. Worn clothing was mended my women instead of being thrown away. Companies like Sears and Montgomery Ward sent catalogs yearly and people could buy anything in the catalog and have it sent to their rural homes.

What were the efforts to help immigrants?

Initially, immigrants were left on their own once entering America. City bosses, such as the infamous Boss Tweed of the Tammany Hall district in New York City, pretty much ran the immigrants' lives Eventually, people's social conscience kicked into gear. Religious groups sought to help and social reformers wanted to rework lives for the immigrant. Most notable of social reformers of the late 1800's was Jane Addams. Addams founded Hull House in Chicago (1889). It was a "settlement house"—immigrants came there for counseling, literacy training, child care, cultural activities, and the like. A well-known spin-off of Hull House was the Henry Street Settlement in New York run by Lillian Wald.

What finally pushed the US into WWI?

Interception and publication of the Zimmerman telegram ● German Foreign Secretary promised to help Mexico get back California if they joined Germany in a war against the U.S. as well as The fall of the Tsarist regime in Russia ● made Wilson's claims that he wanted to fight to make the world safe for democracy a bit more plausible

What was the Dawes Plan?

It was a American's investors plan to find a way for the German's to continue to pay reparations. This will work for about 5 years till Hitler comes to rule.

What was the Scopes Trial?

It was the trial of a school biology teacher who imparted evolution. The trial represented the fight over evolution and the role of science and religion in public schools and in American society. William Jennings Bryan defended religious interests for the trial.

What issue rose with regard to Japanese laborers?

Japanese laborers began to migrate into California. Their population was only 3% of state's total, but a "yellow peril" swept over California. San Francisco segregated schools but TR met with the school board and had them desegregate. The gentlemen agreement was when Japan agreed to curb the number of workers coming to the US and in exchange Roosevelt agreed to allow the wives of the Japenese men already living in the US to join them

What were the social movements of the time?

Ladies still pushed for female suffrage. The push for the right to vote had taken a time-out to push for blacks' rights; now the push was on again. The National American Suffrage Association was started in 1890 with Elizabeth Cady Stanton (from the old Seneca Falls Convention of 1848) and Susan B. Anthony. Female suffrage was reserved to white women only. Black women found other causes: Ida Wells led a nationwide push against lynching and helped start the National Association of Colored Women (1896). The movement to prohibit alcohol gained steam as well as corner bars were everywhere in the city. The argument, mostly by women, was that alcohol and the bars kept the men drunk, took the family's wages, and increased violence at home. Notably other crusades popped up at the same time: the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the American Red Cross (1881) led by Clara Barton, the famous Civil War nurse

How did Wilson trust-bust?

Last on Wilson's "triple wall of privilege" were the trusts. Congress passed the Federal Trade Commission Act (1914) which set up a position, appointed by the president, to investigate activities of trusts. The goal would be to stop trade practices deemed unfair such as unlawful competition, false advertising, mislabeling, adulteration, and bribery. Congress wanted to strengthen the largely ineffective Sherman Anti-Trust Act (1890), so it passed the Clayton Anti-Trust Act (1914). The Clayton Act put real teeth into anti-trust law.

What was the Bonus Expeditionary Force?

Many WWI veterans were still clamoring for "bonuses" for saving the world for democracy. The "Bonus Expeditionary Force" (the BEF) was drummed up. It consisted of 20,000 people who marched to Washington, set up camp (literally), and demanded their bonuses. The situation got out of hand. Riots emerged in the unsanitary encampment. Pres. Hoover criticized the BEF as being made up of riffraff and reds (communists). Hoover ordered the BEF evicted. The eviction was carried out by Gen. Douglas MacArthur and the Army., and it was ugly. MacArthur used bayonets, tear gas, and fire to roust the BEF out.

How did society change during the 20s?

Margaret Sanger promoted birth-control for women. The National Women's Party emerged in 1923 with the ambition of getting an Equal Rights Amendment passed to the U.S. Constitution. Religion was watered-down too. "Modernists" pushed back at Fundamentalists. Modernists viewed God as an old chum, as opposed to the traditional view that man was a born sinner and in need of forgiveness through Christ. The young "Jazz Age" set of "flaming youth" shocked the older crowd. The young modern women in the 20's, the "flappers" were the worst: They dressed scantily and danced "dirty" to the Charleston. They drank booze, bobbed their hair short, courted boys in motorcars, and openly spoke of sex. Jazz music also became big in the "jazz age".

How did mining impact the west?

Mining towns developed in the west. They brought jobs and opportunity There was a routine to the growth of mining towns... First, gold/silver was found as in Virginia City, Nevada. When word got out, they grew like wild—too fast for their own good. These boomtowns were nicknamed "Helldorados" because of their lawlessness. Saloons and bordellos quickly came to town, and a general store for supplies. Later, if the town remained, a post office, school, sheriff, and an opera house for entertainment might arrive. For many towns, when the minerals ran out, the townsfolk simply left and the town became a ghost town.

What happened in America early on in WW1?

Most Americans favored the Allies but many supported the Central Powers due to ethnic heritage. Nearly all Americans were happy that an ocean separated them from the war and wanted to stay neutral. Being officially neutral, American businesses sought to trade with either side in the war to make money. Trade with the Allies was possible and took place. Trade with the Central Powers was much trickier with the British navy controlling the sea. This trade effectively pulled the U.S. out of a mini-recession that it'd been in prior to the war.

What were the issues of rising urban life?

New levels of waste from throw-away goods and cheap clothing, needed to be disposed of. This represented a shift from thrift to consumerism. Criminals flourished, sanitary facilities could not keep pace, and impure water was consumed by many. Worst of all were the slums; living in putrid tenements poor migrants struggled greatly.

What was Harding/Coolidge's foreign policy?

Officially, the U.S. did not participate with the League of Nations. "Unofficial observers" were at the meetings to keep a suspicious eye on things. The lack of real participation though from the U.S. helped to doom the League. In the Middle East, Harding recognized the need for oil. He secured the rights, along with England, for drilling there. In keeping with Woodrow Wilson's "war to end all war" ambition, there was an international trend to end warfare as a means of solving disputes. Later, in 1928 under Pres. Coolidge, Sec. of State Frank B. Kellogg won the Nobel Peace Prize. He signed the Kellogg-Briand Pact which outlawed war. 62 nations signed this treaty—a beautiful idea, yet incredibly naive.

What was Black Tuesday?

On "Black Tuesday," October 29, 1929, the bottom dropped out of the stock market on some bad economic news from Britain. The sell-off had begun and prices plummeted: stockholders had lost $40 billion in value by the end of 1929. The stock crash was the trigger and the circle-of-bad-news had begun. Businesses began to go out of business (since people couldn't or wouldn't buy now). Unemployment shot up. Over 5,000, banks went bankrupt as folks withdrew their money in fear of their bank going bankrupt (a self-fulfilling prophecy). The only things growing were soup kitchens and homeless shelters. This caused the Great Depression

How did McKinley's presidency end? What happened after?

Only six months after being reelected, McKinley was shot and killed in Buffalo, NY by a mentally unstable man. V.P. Teddy Roosevelt became the youngest president ever at only 42 years old. Roosevelt was a fantastic politician. The people adored the likeable "Teddy." Cartoonists loved his wire-framed glasses, huge teeth, rowdy nature—he was almost a walking, living caricature of himself.As president, TR's opinion was that the president should lead, and he did. He's often considered the "first modern president."

How was the war resolved?

Peace negotiations were held in Paris to "settle" the war. The stipulations were: Cuba was free and independent, as the Teller Amendment had said it would be. But there were strings attached. The U.S. gained (1) Puerto Rico, (2) Guam, and (3) assumed control of the Philippines for 20 million dollars. The Senate still had to okay the treaty so the question then became, "Should the U.S. Senate accept the Paris treaty and thus acquire the Philippines?" Passage of the Paris treaty was in the balance until William Jennings Bryan threw his weight in favor of it. Once he did, the treaty passed by a single vote.

Who was Calvin Coolidge? How did he come to office?

Pres. Harding died at this time, August 2, 1923, of pneumonia and thrombosis. The scandals and their stress may well have added to the illness. At Harding's death, V.P. Calvin Coolidge became president. He was serious, calm, shy, moral, boring, and unlike most politicians, didn't speak much. It was ironic that in the Twenties, the "Age of Ballyhoo," the U.S. had a very traditional, old-timey president. Coolidge was even more pro-business than Harding had been. He once said, "the man who builds a factory builds a temple" and "the man who works there, worships there."

What were the scandals of the Harding administration?

Pres. Harding was an honest man, but many in his administration were not. Harding either didn't, couldn't, or didn't want to see this fact. Col. Charles R. Forbes skimmed money as chief of the Veterans Bureau. He and his crowd pilfered about $200 million while building veterans hospitals. He spent a whopping two years in jail. The worst was the Teapot Dome scandal involving oil. Sec. of Interior Albert B. Fall was to manage natural resources. When oil was discovered near the "Teapot Dome" in Wyoming, Fall sneakily had the land placed under his power. Fall then accepted bribes for oil drilling rights from Edward Doheny and Harry Sinclair for about $100,000 and $300,000 respectively. Word leaked out in 1923 and it drug through the courts for six years. Doheny and Sinclair got off the hook, Fall served one year in jail.

What was Dollar Diplomacy?

President Taft encouraged a policy called "Dollar Diplomacy" where Americans invested in foreign countries to gain power. Wall Street was urged to invest in strategic areas, especially the Far East and Latin America. The Dollar Diplomacy policy would thus strengthen the U.S. and make money at the same time. Whereas TR had used the in-your-face Big Stick policy, Taft used the sneakier Dollar Diplomacy policy.

How did gangsterism rise at this time?

Prohibition created an entire industry for organized crime: liquor distribution. Gangs emerged and staked out their territories for liquor and their accompanying "speakeasy" bars, gambling, narcotics, ***** houses, and extortion money. Chicago led the gang world. About 500 gangsters were murdered in the 20's in Chicago. Arrests were few and convictions were rare since gang members would not rat out others.

What question arose after the annexation of Puerto Rico and the Philippines?

Puerto Ricans was owned by the U.S. but was neither a territory nor state. It was given a limited elected government under the Foraker Act. A question arose over taking Puerto Rico and the Philippines..."Do American laws and rights apply to these lands and peoples?" The Supreme Court declared in the so-called Insular Cases that America's laws and customs do not necessarily extend to these new lands.

What happened with regard to the Monroe Doctrine during TR's presidency?

Relations with Latin America would take another turn-for-the-worse. Nations like Venezuela and the Dominican Republic were constantly behind in loan payments to European lenders TR enacted the Roosevelt Corollary (an addition to the Monroe Doctrine). It said that the U.S. would intervene in Latin America and collect the debts for Europe. This pissssssed the Latins off.

What new states were admitted to the union?

Several were admitted in one block vote: North and South Dakota, Montana, Washington, Idaho, and Wyoming. The Mormons finally banned polygamy (marrying multiple wives) in 1890 and Utah was then admitted as a state in 1896. The Oklahoma territory was opened to settlers in a "land rush" in 1889. Many jumped the starting gun and snuck out to the land "sooner" than the others—earning the nickname of the "Sooner state." Most land rusher participants went home empty-handed but Oklahoma became a state by the end of 1889.

What were the causes of the Great Depression?

Stock market crash Purchasing on margin Dust bowl

How did Taft split the Republican Party?

Taft, as the mild Progressive, had promised to lower the tariff. As president, he sought to do just that, if only a small reduction. Sen. Nelson Aldrich added many increases to the tariff bill while it was in the Senate. When passed and signed by Taft, the Payne-Aldrich Bill actually broke his campaign promise and angered many. This split the party.

How did President Roosevelt corral the corporations?

Teddy Roosevelt nurtured the reputation of a trust buster. TR concluded, however that there were "good trusts" and there were "bad trusts." The bad trusts had to go. In all, Roosevelt attacked some 40 trusts, including busting the beef, sugar, fertilizer, and harvester trusts Despite his reputation as a trust buster, TR allowed the "good trusts" to survive. He believed his actions against the bad trusts would prevent the good ones from going astray. William Howard Taft, who succeeded Roosevelt, would actually be more of a trust buster than TR. Taft actually busted more trusts than TR.

What were some of the progressive steps taken by Wilson?

The Federal Farm Loan Act (1916) offered low interest loans to farmers. The Warehouse Act (1916) offered loans on on security of staple crops. Sailors were guaranteed good treatment and a decent wage under the La Follette Seamen's Act (1915) The Workingmen's Compensation Act (1916) offered help to federal civil-service employees during a time of disability. The Adamson Act (1916) set an 8-hour workday (plus overtime) for any worker on a train engaged in interstate trade. Wilson named Louis Brandeis to the Supreme Court—the 1st Jew to sit on the bench. But, Wilson's Progressiveness did not reach out to blacks in America. His policies actually moved toward greater segregation - that's why he got canceled!

What happened with farmers at this time?

The Homestead Act (1862) offered 160 acres of free land. Settlers only had to pay a small fee and improve the land, meaning build a small cabin on it. Alternately, the land could be purchased flat-out for $1.25 per acre. Settlers often had a rude awakening—due to its sparse nature, 160 acres of western land seemed much less than 160 acres back east. Ever since the railroads came through, people realized that the American west, though dry, was actually fertile. The trick was to get water to the soil. Farmers developed "dry farming" to deal with the sparse rain. With this technique, farmers would plow the dew into the top few inches of soil. The system worked but it created a dusty layer of powder atop the soil. In the 1930's the Great Dust Bowl would result. Farmers were in debt to to deflationary practices If debt wasn't enough, farmers also faced drought, heat, prairie fires, floods, locust swarms that would eat everything but the mortgage, and the boll weevil decimated Southern cotton. The government added insult-to-injury by taxing farmers to death. Their lands were assessed too high meaning their taxes were too high. The farmers' assets (land) were in the open, by comparison, Easterners could hide their assets (stocks and bonds) in safe-deposit boxes.

How did the KKK expand its membership in the 1920's?

The Ku Klux Klan was somewhat re-vamped at this time. The KKK had been started as an anti-black group. In the 20's, it added to its list of "we don't likes": Catholics, Jewish, pacifists, communists, internationalists, revolutionists, bootleggers, gambling, adultery, and birth control. By expanding its scope of hatred and by riding the mood of the time, the KKK reached its numerical peak during the 20's—about 5 million members strong.

What situation arose in Mexico? How did Wilson deal with it?

The Mexican people were extremely poor and they revolted in 1913. he president was assassinated. Placed as president was an Indian, Gen. Victoriano Huerta. The revolutionaries in Mexico were violent and threatened American lives and property. Americans called for Wilson to offer protection but, he would not. A situation emerged in Tampico, Mexico when some American sailors were seized by Mexico. Wilson sought Congress' okay to use military force and actually had the navy seize Vera Cruz, Mexico. Ultimately Huerta was replaced.

Why did immigration spike? What was life like for these immigrants?

The New Immigrants came to America for many reasons: the population in Europe had grown very fast, there had been wars, there was discrimination, but the main reason for emigrating to America, as usual, was economic opportunities. Trans-Atlantic steamships also made passage easier. Life was difficult as many immigrant were exploited as a cheap labor source. Immigrants struggled between keeping Old World customs and adopting the New World. To keep the old, Catholics set up school systems, their were foreign language newspapers, ethnic restaurants, theaters and social clubs. The children of the immigrants normally grew up "American" and become wholly "American."

What was the Square Deal?

The Square Deal was a promise, made by Roosevelt, that everyone had the right to succeed whilst he was running in 1904. President Roosevelt had been moved the by muckrakers and the Progressives' ideals. He pursued the "three C's": (1) control of the corporations, (2) consumer protection, and (3) conservation of natural resources.

What showdown occurred at the 1912 RNC?

The Taft-Roosevelt showdown came in June of 1912 at the Republican convention. Both men vied for the Republican nomination. As the sitting president, Taft was nominated as the Republican candidate for 1912. Roosevelt wasn't done, however. TR would simply run on his own as a third party candidate.

Great Depression / New Deal notes

https://course-notes.org/us_history/notes/the_american_pageant_16th_edition/chapter_32_the_great_depression_and_the_new_deal

What was the Roosevelt Panic of 1907?

The economy took a sudden and sharp downtown in 1907. As with any economic downtown, the president was blamed, justly or not. Conservatives, especially, charged that Roosevelt's meddling in business had fouled up the cogs of the economy. They called it the "Roosevelt Panic." The Panic did reveal the need for a more elastic currency supply. In other words, the banks needed reserves to release into circulation if times got tough. Congress passed the Aldrich-Vreeland Act (1908) authorizing national banks to release money into circulation.

What advancements in education were made at this time?

The idea of "free compulsory eduction," paid for by taxpayers, was a reality, but generally only up to the 8th grade. High schools were now growing and were to 6,000 in number by 1900. Other areas of education grew: (a) kindergartens, (b) "normal" (teacher training) schools, and (c) the fast growth of parochial schools (especially Catholic). Upper education expanded after the Civil War. Women gained more colleges, often in the Midwest, like Vassar. Black colleges emerged, like Howard University in Washington D.C. and Atlanta University. Two laws helped the growth of colleges: the Morrill Act (1862) and then the Hatch Act (1887). They provided money to states for "land-grant colleges." A focus was on agricultural research at the universities Stats reflect the benefits of education: the illiteracy rate fell from 20% (1870) to 10.7% (1900).

What happened in the Presidential Election of 1896? Who were the candidates? What was the central issue?

The presidential election of 1896 asked, then answered, the question, "Will the U.S. base its money on gold, silver, or both?" It also saw disgruntled and restless workers going up against the conservative and worried business class. The Republicans nominated William McKinley - pro gold/business The Democrats nominated William Jennings Bryan - young, pro silver populist McKinley won the election 1896 easily, 271 to 176 electoral votes. Bryan carried the South and West, McKinley carried the Northeast, Midwest, and far West. This started a run of Republican Presidents.

Who were the Progressives and what were their goals?

The progressives generally came from the middle class. They felt somehow sandwiched between the big business trusts and tycoons on the top and the immigrant, working class on the bottom. Progressivism mostly began at the local level and rise to the state and national ranks. They called for secret ballots, referendums, senatorial election and women's suffrage.

How did the Spanish American War impact America abroad and domestically?

The war showed the world that the U.S. was a world power, likely the world's strongest. Other nations, like Russia, Britain, and France, took note and stepped up their diplomatic headquarters in Washington D.C. Domestically, the country united and became more patriotic

How did the war play out?

They first went to the Philippines (Spanish) and acquired it. This also led them to annex Hawaii. The U.S. hastily mounted up in Tampa, FL to invade Cuba. They were ill prepared and many died of disease. The "Rough Riders" cavalry were organized by Teddy Roosevelt. Eager for action, he'd resigned his navy administration post. The Rough Riders were headed by Col. Leonard Wood, Roosevelt served as Lt. Col. Ultimately the U.S. won the war and Puerto Rico was given to the U.S.

Who was Upton Sinclair and what did he do?

Upton Sinclair wrote The Jungle about the meat packing industry's horrible conditions. Sinclair's goal was to reveal the plight of the workers. But, the real effect was to gross out America and initiate action in Congress. His book motivated Congress to pass the Meat Inspection Act (1906). Henceforth meat would be inspected by the U.S.D.A. The Pure Food and Drug Act was also passed. Its goal was to ensure proper labeling of food and drugs.and to prevent tampering.

What was the Progressive Movement? How did it get started?

When the 1900s began a new reform movement immediately started, led by "Progressives". Their goals were to stop monopolies, corruption, inefficiency, and social injustice. The roots of Progressivism began with the Greenback Party (1870's) and the Populist Party (1890's). A modern industrial society seemed to call for more government action and to take a step back from pure, laissez-faire capitalism. Society would change dramatically during the time period known as the progressive era.

What was McKinley's term like?

William McKinley, as president, was safe in his decisions. He didn't ruffle feathers and tried to stay close to public opinion. Congress worked through the Dingley Tariff Bill. It eventually raised tariff rates to 46.5%, higher, but not as high as some had wanted. Congress passed the Gold Standard Act (1900) saying people could trade in paper money for gold. Just knowing and trusting that meant there was no need to do that. This brought economic calm and stability.

What was the outcome of the 1912 election?

With the Republicans split, it was time for the Democrats. Woodrow Wilson won the 1912 electoral vote handily: Wilson had 435 electoral votes, Roosevelt had 88, and Taft had 8. The popular vote was much different however. Wilson garnered only 41% of the people's votes, TR and Taft totaled 50%. Thus, most people in America did not want Wilson as their president. The conclusion seemed clear—Roosevelt's Bull Moose party had cost Republicans, and given the Democrats, the White House. The Socialist party continued to be on the rise. Eugene V. Debs got 6% of the popular vote—a strong showing by a third party and, again, a sign-of-the-times for people liking what the Socialists were saying.

What was the reaction of the population to the rise in immigration

With the boom of immigration, "nativism" (bias against foreigners) reappeared from its 1840's roots. By the 1880's it was the "New Immigrants" being looked down upon. The Old Immigrants from northern Europe disliked the New because they were poorly educated, poor, Catholic, were from the "inferior" regions of Europe, and had high immigration and birth rates. In simple dollars-and-sense, these New Immigrants would work for pennies. This kept everyone's wages low. Also, immigrants were used as scabs (strike-breakers) and were hard to unionize due to language issues. This fostered even more resent. Eventually laws followed people's feelings. The first law restricting immigration to America was passed in 1882. It banned paupers (a very poor person), criminals, and convicts. Another law in 1885 forbade importing workers under contract at substandard wages. Other laws banned more "undesirables" and literacy tests kept many immigrants out until 1917. A red-letter law was passed in 1882, the Chinese Exclusion Act. It banned the immigration of Chinese. This was the first immigration law to specifically target and ban a specific ethnicity.

How were women involved in the Progressive movement?

Women were an indispensable catalyst in the Progressive army. They couldn't vote or hold political office, but were active none-the-less. Women focused their changes on family-oriented ills such as child labor Women reformers gained speed after the Triangle Shirtwaist Company burnt down in 1911, trapping and killing 146 mostly young, women workers. The tragedy gained much attention and gave the women momentum. Alcohol had long been under fire by women. During the Progressive era, temperance would reach its peak.

What was Wilson's foreign policy?

Woodrow Wilson took a very different path in foreign policy when compared to his two predecessors. Wilson was a pacifist at heart, a peacemaker. He hated TR's Big Stick Policy and Taft's Dollar Diplomacy. He got American bankers to pull out of a 6 nation loan to China. Wilson got Congress to repeal the Panama Canal Tolls Act (1912) which allowed American ships to pass through the canal toll free. He also gave the Philippines territorial status and defused a situation with Japan.

How did society change with regard to art and entertainment?

Writing was going through a change of flavor: in the early 1800's "romanticism" ruled (for example, The Last of the Mohicans), by the late 1800's "realism" took over (for example, Sister Carrie). The switch to realism was spawned by the industrial revolution and growth of cities. In the early days of America, art had been on hold while the nation was built. By the end of the 18th century, American art was coming into its own. Many new artists emerged. Music made steps with symphonies in Boston and Chicago and New York's Metropolitan Opera House. American entertainment went to the national level. This was due to increased free time due to hourly jobs in cities and increased national unity due to newspapers. Sports and circuses emerged as popular forms of entertainment