American Imperialism and Progressive Era Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What was the primary reason American settlers sought the annexation of Hawaii in 1893?

To avoid tariffs on sugar (correct)

To promote tourism to the islands

To support a local revolution against colonial powers

To establish a naval base in the Pacific

How did William H. Seward's purchase of Alaska impact perceptions of the acquisition over time?

It was largely ignored by the public

It was initially criticized but later seen as valuable (correct)

It was immediately praised for its strategic location

It faced legal challenges that delayed its acceptance

Which argument did social fears during the 1890s use to justify overseas expansion?

Economic instability would be alleviated through new markets (correct)

The need to spread democracy to oppressed nations

The financial gains of a larger navy

Moral superiority over other cultures

What was Alfred Thayer Mahan's influential argument regarding U.S. power?

The establishment of a strong navy and overseas bases was crucial Signup and view all the answers

What principle did anti-imperialists primarily advocate for?

The principle of self-determination for all nations Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was a significant motivating factor for the U.S. expansion during the era of New Imperialism?

Securing resources like minerals and rubber Signup and view all the answers

Which group opposed the use of racial theories to justify imperialism?

Anti-imperialists against ruling without consent Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the imperialism debate was highlighted by critics focused on economic concerns?

The financial burden of maintaining navy and territories Signup and view all the answers

What did Booker T. Washington prioritize to enhance the status of African Americans during the Progressive Era?

Economic self-reliance Signup and view all the answers

What was W.E.B. Du Bois's main advocacy during the Progressive Era?

Immediate civil rights and political representation Signup and view all the answers

Which organization was founded in 1909 to combat segregation and fight for African American rights?

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary aim of the National Urban League established in 1911?

Helping African Americans transition to urban life Signup and view all the answers

How did President Wilson initially respond to the outbreak of World War I?

By emphasizing U.S. neutrality Signup and view all the answers

What concept did Wilson strongly believe in as essential for neutral countries during WWI?

Freedom of the seas Signup and view all the answers

What significant event escalated tensions leading to U.S. involvement in World War I?

Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare declaration Signup and view all the answers

What was a direct consequence of the sinking of the Lusitania?

Increased diplomatic isolation of Germany Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect did the U.S. economy reinforce during WWI despite its neutral stance?

Trade relations with Allies Signup and view all the answers

What was the pivotal communication that incited outrage in the U.S. public leading to war?

Zimmermann Telegram Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of British propaganda in the U.S. during World War I?

Portraying Germany negatively Signup and view all the answers

What did advocates of military preparedness during Wilson's presidency argue?

That military strength was essential for national security Signup and view all the answers

What impact did World War I have on the women's suffrage movement?

Enhancing visibility of women's contributions Signup and view all the answers

What amendment was ratified in 1920, marking a significant victory for women's suffrage?

Nineteenth Amendment Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of the Dawes Plan?

To facilitate Germany's payment of reparations to Allies Signup and view all the answers

What significant change did the Good Neighbor Policy bring about in U.S. foreign relations?

Emphasis on cooperation and mutual respect in Latin America Signup and view all the answers

Which factor contributed to the rise of Fascism in Italy?

The defeat of Italy in World War I Signup and view all the answers

What event marked the beginning of significant Japanese militarism in Asia?

The start of the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937 Signup and view all the answers

What sentiment was prevalent in the U.S. following World War I?

Widespread isolationist sentiments among the public Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary goal of the Gentlemen's Agreement of 1907?

To restrict Japanese immigration to the U.S. Signup and view all the answers

What did Taft's Dollar Diplomacy primarily promote?

American financial investments abroad Signup and view all the answers

What was the main focus of the 'clear and present danger' test as established by Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes?

To define when speech may be restricted during wartime Signup and view all the answers

Which policy aimed at promoting democracy and opposing imperialism?

Wilson's Moral Diplomacy Signup and view all the answers

What significant change did the Jones Act of 1916 represent for the Philippines?

Full territorial status and universal male suffrage Signup and view all the answers

How did the war contribute to changes in labor roles for women?

Women filled roles traditionally held by men who went to fight. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant outcome of the Great Migration during World War I?

Approximately 1 million African Americans relocated to northern cities. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the Progressive movement was emphasized by muckrakers?

Political corruption and industrial safety Signup and view all the answers

Which reform was introduced to ensure voter privacy?

Secret ballot Signup and view all the answers

What triggered the Red Scare in 1919?

Fear of a communist revolution after the takeover in Russia Signup and view all the answers

What did the 17th Amendment change regarding U.S. Senators?

They are elected directly by the people Signup and view all the answers

What characterized the economic prosperity of the 1920s?

A significant rise in manufacturing output by 64% Signup and view all the answers

What was the main objective of the temperance movement in the early 20th century?

To establish laws banning alcohol production and sale Signup and view all the answers

How did the assembly line contribute to the economic growth in the 1920s?

It minimized worker movement and increased productivity. Signup and view all the answers

Which case upheld laws limiting working hours for women based on gender?

Muller v. Oregon Signup and view all the answers

What impact did the automobile have on American society during the 1920s?

It led to increased traffic congestion and social independence concerns. Signup and view all the answers

What was a core belief of Progressives regarding government?

Government should play a larger role in reform Signup and view all the answers

What challenge did farmers face during the economic boom of the 1920s?

Declining crop prices caused by overproduction. Signup and view all the answers

How did union membership change during the 1920s?

It declined due to open shop policies and corporate strategies. Signup and view all the answers

Which reform aimed at reducing the power of party bosses?

Direct primaries Signup and view all the answers

Which movement was specifically aimed at urban poverty and improving living conditions?

Progressive social welfare efforts Signup and view all the answers

Which innovation in mass media gained significant popularity during the 1920s?

Radio Signup and view all the answers

What was a key characteristic of modernism in the 1920s?

Embracing scientific knowledge and social theories. Signup and view all the answers

The decline of muckraking was primarily influenced by which factor?

Advertiser pressures and corporate PR Signup and view all the answers

What was one major government policy during the economic expansion of the 1920s?

Tax cuts for corporations and reduced antitrust enforcement. Signup and view all the answers

What did the Palmer Raids involve during the Red Scare?

Mass arrests of anarchists, socialists, and labor agitators. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary argument President Wilson made in his request for Congress to declare war on Germany in 1917?

To protect the freedom of the seas and make the world safe for democracy. Signup and view all the answers

What concept did Wilson advocate for regarding post-war peace?

A peace without victory to avoid humiliation of any nation. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT included in Wilson's Fourteen Points?

A mandate for reparations on Germany. Signup and view all the answers

What was a major concern of the Senate regarding Article X of the Treaty of Versailles?

It would bind the U.S. to international decisions, jeopardizing sovereignty. Signup and view all the answers

The Treaty of Versailles faced opposition primarily from two groups. Which of the following correctly identifies them?

Irreconcilables and Reservationists. Signup and view all the answers

What role did Herbert Hoover play during World War I?

Leader of the Food Administration. Signup and view all the answers

How did the U.S. government finance its participation in World War I?

Through the sale of Liberty Bonds. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant legal consequence of the Espionage Act of 1917?

It established penalties for interfering with military operations. Signup and view all the answers

What did the Sedition Act of 1918 specifically target?

Disloyal or abusive speech against the government. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of World War I, what was the primary purpose of the National War Labor Board?

To resolve labor disputes and improve working conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What was a major outcome of the Senate's rejection of the Treaty of Versailles?

It marked a significant setback for Wilson's vision of international cooperation. Signup and view all the answers

What was one reason for the increase in public opinion management during World War I?

To foster national unity and support for the war effort. Signup and view all the answers

What were the three main components of Roosevelt's approach known as the 'three C's'?

Control of corporations, consumer protection, conservation of natural resources Signup and view all the answers

Which significant labor dispute did Roosevelt mediate in 1902?

The coal strike in Pennsylvania Signup and view all the answers

What was a key outcome of the 1902 coal strike resolution mediated by Roosevelt?

A 10% wage increase and a nine-hour workday for miners Signup and view all the answers

Which act established the authority to set maximum railroad rates?

Hepburn Act Signup and view all the answers

What fueled the demand for a more assertive foreign policy in the United States during the 1890s?

A combination of jingoism, economic interests, and moral concerns Signup and view all the answers

What legislation aimed at consumer protection followed the public outcry about the meatpacking industry?

Pure Food and Drug Act Signup and view all the answers

Which act established federal inspections of meat processing plants?

Meat Inspection Act Signup and view all the answers

What event is commonly cited as provoking public outrage and increasing calls for U.S. intervention in Cuba?

The sinking of the battleship Maine Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main goals of Wilson's 'New Freedom' program?

To dismantle the 'triple wall of privilege' consisting of tariffs, banks, and trusts Signup and view all the answers

What did the Teller Amendment declare?

The U.S. had no intention of controlling Cuba politically Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT a provision of the Platt Amendment?

Cuba would be made a U.S. colony Signup and view all the answers

Which act established the Federal Reserve System?

Federal Reserve Act Signup and view all the answers

What was a feature of the Clayton Antitrust Act?

It strengthened provisions against monopolies and exempted labor unions from being treated as illegal. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant outcome of the Treaty of Paris in 1898?

The U.S. gained Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines Signup and view all the answers

What significant act did Taft enact to extend regulatory authority over telecommunications?

Mann-Elkins Act Signup and view all the answers

Which strategy did Theodore Roosevelt's 'Big Stick' policy emphasize?

Strong military presence and readiness to intervene Signup and view all the answers

Which amendment allowed the federal government to impose a graduated income tax?

16th Amendment Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of the Open Door Policy proposed by John Hay?

To ensure equal trading rights for all nations in China Signup and view all the answers

What did the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine assert?

The U.S. would intervene in Latin American conflicts to maintain stability Signup and view all the answers

What role did Woodrow Wilson emphasize in the 1912 presidential election?

Promoting individualism and states' rights Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the consequences of the Philippine-American War?

A strong resistance from Filipino nationalists against U.S. control Signup and view all the answers

Which act prohibited the sale of products manufactured by children under the age of 14?

Child Labor Act Signup and view all the answers

What did the Federal Trade Commission aim to address?

Consumer protection and prevention of anti-competitive practices Signup and view all the answers

What was Theodore Roosevelt's role in the construction of the Panama Canal?

He facilitated Panama's independence to secure control of the Canal Zone Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes yellow journalism during the Spanish-American War?

Exaggeration and fabrication of news to influence public opinion Signup and view all the answers

What characterized the election of 1900?

Public support for McKinley's policies and expansionism Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary goal of the Great White Fleet's global tour?

To showcase U.S. naval power and influence Signup and view all the answers

How did the Cuban nationalists' struggle for independence impact U.S. public opinion?

It increased American sympathy towards Cuba due to harsh Spanish treatment Signup and view all the answers

What scandal significantly tarnished Warren Harding's administration?

Teapot Dome Scandal Signup and view all the answers

Which economic policy was primarily associated with Calvin Coolidge's presidency?

Laissez-faire economics Signup and view all the answers

What key challenge did Herbert Hoover face upon becoming president?

Great Depression Signup and view all the answers

What was a major underlying cause of the Great Depression related to wealth distribution?

Uneven distribution of income Signup and view all the answers

Which event is marked by a massive sell-off in the stock market on October 24, 1929?

Black Thursday Signup and view all the answers

Which administration faced increased criticism for its lack of direct federal intervention during the Great Depression?

Herbert Hoover's Signup and view all the answers

What was one consequence of excessive stock market speculation during the 1920s?

Financial ruin for many investors Signup and view all the answers

How did the Federal Reserve contribute to the economic crisis of the 1930s?

Maintained the gold standard Signup and view all the answers

What social impact did the Great Depression have by 1933?

Unemployment soared to 25% Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the temporary settlements of homeless people during the Great Depression?

Shantytowns Signup and view all the answers

What economic consequence did the Great Depression have on the U.S. gross national product from 1929 to 1932?

Halved from $104 billion to $56 billion Signup and view all the answers

What was a key factor that influenced the limited government intervention during the 1920s?

A strong pro-business sentiment Signup and view all the answers

During Hoover's presidency, what did he rely on as a means to address the challenges posed by the Great Depression?

Voluntary action and private charities Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributed to the overproduction of consumer goods during the 1920s?

Stagnant wages and low purchasing power Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary stance of fundamentalists regarding the interpretation of the Bible?

They favored a literal interpretation. Signup and view all the answers

Which event highlighted the conflict between modernists and fundamentalists in the 1920s?

The Scopes Trial Signup and view all the answers

What was a major consequence of Prohibition in the 1920s?

Rise of speakeasies and bootlegging Signup and view all the answers

Which group primarily supported Prohibition during the 1920s?

Republicans Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the major impacts of the 19th Amendment on women's roles?

Increased political participation Signup and view all the answers

During the Harlem Renaissance, which cultural form primarily flourished?

African American literature and music Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the significant changes in social norms during the 1920s?

Liberal attitudes towards premarital sex Signup and view all the answers

Who were two prominent figures in the religious broadcasting during the 1920s?

Billy Sunday and Aimee Semple McPherson Signup and view all the answers

What was a characteristic of women's employment in the 1920s?

Wage disparity between men and women persisted Signup and view all the answers

What led to the decline of the Ku Klux Klan by the late 1920s?

Public exposure of criminal activities Signup and view all the answers

What resulted from the compulsory education laws enacted in the 1920s?

Push towards universal high school education Signup and view all the answers

What role did jazz music play during the 1920s?

It became a defining feature of the cultural era. Signup and view all the answers

What was a key cause of the societal tensions reflected during the Scopes Trial?

The conflict between urban and rural values Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of the Hawley-Smoot Tariff?

To significantly raise duties on foreign imports Signup and view all the answers

Which program was created to help stabilize critical sectors like banking and railroads during the Great Depression?

Reconstruction Finance Corporation Signup and view all the answers

What was Franklin D. Roosevelt's approach during his 1932 campaign regarding the Great Depression?

He aimed to experiment with various solutions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following programs was NOT a part of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal?

National Industry Recovery Act Signup and view all the answers

What was the effect of the Emergency Banking Act passed on March 9, 1933?

It facilitated the reopening of banks after reorganization. Signup and view all the answers

How did Roosevelt's Fireside Chats impact public confidence?

They restored confidence in the banking system. Signup and view all the answers

What was one goal of the Agricultural Adjustment Administration (AAA)?

To encourage farmers to reduce crop production. Signup and view all the answers

What major economic philosophy is associated with the Reconstruction Finance Corporation's approach?

Trickle-down economics Signup and view all the answers

Which amendment ended Prohibition?

21st Amendment Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason for the creation of the Bank Holiday in March 1933?

To stabilize the banking system due to failures. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was a key characteristic of Roosevelt's Brain Trust?

It included a diverse group of advisors. Signup and view all the answers

Which act increased banking regulations and restricted the use of customer deposits?

Glass-Steagall Act Signup and view all the answers

What was one outcome of the Public Works Administration (PWA)?

It funded infrastructure projects creating jobs. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary purpose of the Civil Works Administration (CWA)?

To provide temporary jobs through construction projects Signup and view all the answers

Which act replaced earlier labor laws with stronger protections for union rights?

National Labor Relations Act Signup and view all the answers

What significant change did the Social Security Act establish in 1935?

A social insurance system for retirees and the unemployed Signup and view all the answers

What impact did the election of 1936 have on the Democratic Party?

It solidified a coalition of diverse groups supporting Roosevelt Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the key criticisms of the New Deal regarding its beneficiaries?

It did not provide equal opportunities for all, particularly African Americans Signup and view all the answers

Which program aimed to improve living conditions for migrant workers and small farmers?

Resettlement Administration Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of the Court Reorganization Plan proposed by Roosevelt?

It was criticized and ultimately defeated Signup and view all the answers

What was one significant result of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938?

Implementation of a national minimum wage Signup and view all the answers

What socioeconomic issue was exacerbated by the Dust Bowl during the 1930s?

Economic hardships leading to significant migration Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes Roosevelt's popularity during the 1936 election?

His policies appealed strongly to workers and small farmers Signup and view all the answers

How did the New Deal's implementation face challenges from the Supreme Court?

Key programs were ruled unconstitutional initially Signup and view all the answers

What was the aim of the Kellogg-Briand Pact signed in 1928?

To renounce war as an instrument of national policy Signup and view all the answers

What effect did political resistance have on the New Deal by 1937?

It blocked further reform legislation Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant psychological impact of the Great Depression on Americans?

Development of a lasting 'depression mentality' Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Imperialism Debates

Seward purchased Alaska from Russia in 1867 for $7.2 million, initially criticized as "Seward's Folly," but later proven valuable due to its resources.
American settlers overthrew the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893, seeking annexation to avoid tariffs on sugar, opposed by President Grover Cleveland.
U.S. expansion was driven by economic interests (markets, raw materials), political/military power (strong navy, overseas bases), and social fears (1890s instability).
Expansionists often used ideologies like Darwinism and religion to justify their actions.
Sensationalist journalism promoted imperialism.
Anti-imperialists argued against imperialism, challenging the idea of racial superiority, and stressing the principle of self-determination.

The Spanish-American War and Foreign Policy

The U.S. experienced increased jingoism in the 1890s, triggering assertive foreign policy, marked by focus on Cuba and the Philippines.
Cuban nationalists' revolt against Spain, Spain's harsh response (concentration camps), and sensationalist journalism (yellow journalism) fueled American sympathy in Cuba.
The "De Lôme Letter" and the sinking of the USS Maine (possibly accidental) further inflamed anti-Spanish sentiment.
President McKinley's war message to Congress cited humanitarian concerns, U.S. citizens' protection, economic interests, and peace in Cuba to justify intervention.
Congress passed the Teller Amendment, declaring no political control over Cuba and future Cuban self-governance.
The Treaty of Paris (1898) ended the war, granting the U.S. recognition of Cuban independence, Puerto Rico, Guam, and control of the Philippines (acquired for $20 million from Spain).

The Philippine Situation

Filipino nationalists led by Emilio Aguinaldo resisted U.S. control of the Philippines, leading to the Philippine-American War (three years), impacting U.S. foreign policy debates about imperialism's morality.

Cuba and the Platt Amendment

The Platt Amendment (1901) made Cuba a U.S. protectorate, restricting treaties, allowing U.S. intervention to maintain order, and granting a naval base at Guantanamo Bay.

Election of 1900

President McKinley was re-elected in 1900, with Theodore Roosevelt as his running mate, reflecting public support for his policies.

Open Door Policy

Secretary of State John Hay proposed the Open Door Policy (1899), ensuring equal trading rights for nations in China to prevent domination.

Roosevelt's "Big Stick" Policy

Roosevelt's foreign policy emphasized military strength (speak softly, carry a big stick) to achieve diplomatic objectives, particularly in the Americas.

Panama Canal and Revolution

Roosevelt supported a Panamanian uprising against Colombia to gain control of the Panama Canal Zone to efficiently connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine

Expanded the Monroe Doctrine to justify U.S. intervention in Latin American conflicts to enforce claims and prevent European interference.

Great White Fleet

The global tour of the Great White Fleet (1907-1909) asserted U.S. naval strength and international influence.

Gentlemen's Agreement

The informal U.S.-Japan agreement (1907) reduced Japanese immigration to the U.S. in exchange for American forbearance.

Taft's Dollar Diplomacy

Taft's policy encouraged U.S. financial investments abroad to increase influence and reduce military intervention.

Wilson's Moral Diplomacy

Wilson's policy promoted democracy and peace and opposed previous administration's imperialist strategies.

Philippines and the Jones Act

The Jones Act (1916) granted the Philippines territorial status, promoted self-governance, and promised future independence.

Panama Canal Tolls

Wilson advocated for equal Panama Canal tolls for all nations to promote fair trade and reduce international discord.

Origins of Progressivism

Rapid industrialization in the early 20th century led to social and economic anxieties, prompting the Progressive movement to advocate for greater government involvement in reforms.

Who Were the Progressives?

Progressives were a diverse group of reform-minded individuals, including religious leaders, African Americans, labor leaders, and feminists, united by their belief in government action.

Progressive Philosophy and Pragmatism

Progressives embraced pragmatism, focusing on practical outcomes and efficiency to drive reforms.

Muckrakers

Muckrakers were journalists who exposed societal problems through investigative journalism.

Decline of Muckraking

Muckraking declined due to challenges in maintaining sensationalism, and competition with corporate public relations.

Political Reforms

Secret ballot, direct primaries, and the 17th Amendment (direct election of senators) reflected efforts to reduce corruption and enhance democratic processes.

Temperance and Prohibition

The temperance movement, focused on banning alcohol influenced by early 20th century concerns about its effects on society and gained momentum.

Progressives targeted urban issues like poverty and living conditions through social welfare programs.

Child and Women Labor:

Efforts to limit working hours and improve conditions for children and women workers, like the landmark case of Muller v. Oregon, were significant but entrenched the era's prevailing gender biases.

Theodore Roosevelt

Roosevelt's "Square Deal" addressed issues like control of corporations, consumer protection, and conservation, reflected through cases like the resolution of the 1902 coal strike.

Coal Mining Situation

FDR intervened in the 1902 coal strike to negotiate a settlement between striking miners and employers.

Trust Busting

Roosevelt's administration aggressively pursued monopolistic corporations and used the Sherman Antitrust Act.

Railroad Regulation

Elkins Act (1903) targeted railroad rebates to favored customers, strengthening the Interstate Commerce Commission.
The Hepburn Act (1906) allowed the ICC to set maximum railroad rates and expand oversight.

The Jungle and Food Safety

The Jungle by Upton Sinclair prompted the Pure Food and Drug Act (1906) to regulate food and drug safety.
The Meat Inspection Act (1906) required sanitary practices in meatpacking plants and federal inspection.

Conservation Efforts

Roosevelt expanded national parks and forests.

William Taft

Taft continued progressive policies, receiving varying degrees of support and criticism.

Mann-Elkins Act (1910)

This act expanded the Interstate Commerce Commission's jurisdiction to telephone and telegraph companies.

16th Amendment

This amendment authorized the federal income tax.

Election of 1912

The election divided the Republican party, enabling Woodrow Wilson's victory.

Woodrow Wilson's Progressive Program

Wilson's "New Freedom" aimed to address economic restrictions with reforms targeting tariffs, banks, and trusts.
The Underwood Tariff (1913) reduced tariffs and introduced a graduated income tax.

Federal Reserve System

The Federal Reserve Act (1914) created a central banking system.

Additional Economic Reforms

Federal Trade Commission: aimed to prevent unfair trade practices.
Clayton Antitrust Act: strengthened antitrust enforcement.
Federal Farm Loan Act: offered loans to farmers.
Child Labor Act (1916): limited child labor, but was later voided by the Supreme Court.

African Americans in the Progressive Era

Booker T. Washington: Advocated for economic self-reliance, vocational training.
W.E.B. Du Bois: Advocated for immediate civil rights and full political participation.
NAACP and National Urban League: Organizations formed to fight for and support African Americans' rights and integration into urban life.

Women's Suffrage

Nineteenth Amendment (1920): Granted women the right to vote.

World War I: Military and Diplomacy

Woodrow Wilson declared U.S. neutrality, but faced challenges in maintaining impartiality.

Freedom of the Seas

U.S. insisted on freedom of trade for neutral nations.

Submarine Warfare

Germany's submarine warfare threatened neutral nations, particularly the U.S.

Lusitania Sinking

The sinking of the Lusitania in 1915, with American casualties, inflamed tensions.

Economic Ties with Britain and France

Strong economic ties with Britain and France complicated the U.S. position amidst the conflict.

Public Opinion and Propaganda

Public opinion swayed by British propaganda toward the Allies.

War Debate: Preparedness vs. Opposition

U.S. faced arguments from preparedness and opposition regarding military buildup.

Decision for War

Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare and the Zimmermann Telegram pushed the U.S. towards war.

Making Peace

Wilson initially advocated for a "peace without victory."
Wilson's Fourteen Points outlined his vision for a just peace and the creation of the League of Nations.

Treaty of Versailles and Debate on U.S. Ratification

The Treaty of Versailles had compromises versus Wilson's aims and resulted in harsh penalties on Germany.
Wilson was opposed by Irreconcilables (against League membership), and Reservationists (sought changes).
The U.S. Senate rejected the Treaty of Versailles, including the League of Nations.

U.S. Mobilization for World War I

U.S. resources rapidly mobilized to support the war effort through government agencies.
Herbert Hoover led the Food Administration.
The Railroad Administration ensured efficient transport.
National War Labor Board resolved labor disputes.
Propaganda supported national unity and vigilance.

Liberty Bonds

The government launched drives to raise funds through Liberty Bonds. Liberty Bonds were government-issued bonds that supported the war effort and provided a secure investment for citizens.

Civil Liberties During World War I

Espionage Act (1917) and Sedition Act (1918) restricted speech deemed disloyal to the war effort.
Schenck v. United States (1919) established the "clear and present danger" test for limiting speech.
Significant restrictions on civil liberties occurred during wartime.

African Americans and the War Effort

African Americans served in segregated units.

Effects on American Society

New employment opportunities for women during wartime.

Great Migration

Mass movement of African Americans from the South to northern cities.

Postwar Problems

The Red Scare, due to fears of communism and post-war anxieties over international relations.
Palmer Raids: Mass arrests of perceived radicals, resulting in civil liberty concerns.

The Roaring Twenties Economic Prosperity

Post-war recession followed by economic boom with increased manufacturing output.

Increased Productivity and the Assembly Line

The assembly line and its impact on manufacturing efficiency and industrial output.

Energy Technology

Advancements in oil and electricity production fueled the economic boom.

Government Policies

Government policies promoted business growth through lax regulations and tax breaks.

Consumer Economy

Increased consumption driven by technology advancements like appliances and new automobile affordability.

Impact of the Automobile

Automobile industry stimulated other industries and changed daily life.

Farm Problems

Farmers faced hardship due to reduced crop prices.

Labor Union Struggles

Labor union membership decline reflecting policies aimed at dampening union gains.

Technology and Culture Innovations

Architecture, mass media, and popular music reflected technological innovations.

1920s Cultural and Political Controversies

Modernism challenged traditional interpretations of faith via scientific advancements such as theories of evolution.
Fundamentalism emphasized literal interpretations of the Bible and rejected modern ideas.
Radio became a key tool for spreading fundamentalist messages during the 1920s.
The Scopes Trial exemplified the clash between modernism and fundamentalism over education and scientific teaching.

Prohibition and the Volstead Act

The 18th Amendment and the Volstead Act introduced Prohibition, outlawing alcohol.
Prohibition led to defiance, organized crime, and political conflict.

Defying Prohibition

Widespread public defiance and the flourishing illegal alcohol market.

Political Discord and the 21st Amendment

Political discord over Prohibition led to its eventual repeal by the 21st Amendment (1933).

Women at Home

Women's roles remained primarily domestic in nature despite the 19th Amendment.

Women in the Labor Force

Women's employment remained largely traditional and faced wage disparities.

Revolution in Morals

Changes in social and sexual norms, particularly among younger generations, challenging traditional attitudes.

Education

Increased educational enrollment and the adoption of compulsory education laws.

African American Cultural Renaissance

The Harlem Renaissance showcased a cultural flourishing of African American art, literature, and music.

Republican Dominance in the 1920s

Republican Party controlled the White House and Congress, reflecting pro-business policies.

Warren Harding's Presidency

Harding's presidency was marked by the Teapot Dome Scandal, a significant case of political corruption.

Calvin Coolidge's Presidency

Coolidge's policies favored laissez-faire economics with limited government involvement.

Herbert Hoover's Presidency

Hoover was known for administrative skills; however, his presidency coincided with the beginning of the Great Depression.

Causes of the 1929 Crash

Stock market speculation, uneven income distribution, excessive credit use, overproduction, and weak farm economy were contributing factors.

Effects of the Great Depression

The Great Depression had profound economic and social impacts marked by severe unemployment and poverty (e.g., shantytowns known as Hoovervilles).

President Hoover's Policies

Initially focused on voluntary action, but later pursued more direct federal intervention.
Hawley-Smoot Tariff aimed to protect domestic industries but harmed international trade.

Domestic Programs

The Federal Farm Board sought to manage agricultural surpluses.
The Reconstruction Finance Corporation provided emergency loans.

The Election of 1932

Roosevelt's campaign focused on economic relief and a "new deal."

Franklin D. Roosevelt's Presidency

Roosevelt expanded the federal government's role and initiated the New Deal.

The New Deal Philosophy

Roosevelt's New Deal approached recovery with action focused on relief, recovery, and reform.

Bank Holiday and Emergency Banking Act

Roosevelt declared a bank holiday and presented the Emergency Banking Act to address the financial crisis.

Repeal of Prohibition

The Beer-Wine Revenue Act and the 21st Amendment restored the sale of alcoholic beverages.

Fireside Chats

Roosevelt used fireside chats to communicate directly with the public to restore confidence in the banking system.

Relief for the Unemployed

Agencies (FERA, PWA, CCC, TVA) delivered employment and economic assistance to citizens to address the impacts of the Great Depression.

Financial Recovery and Reform Programs

Various programs attempted to stabilize the financial sector and prevent future crises.

National Recovery Program

The National Recovery Administration introduced new regulatory mandates and protections.

Farm Production Control Program

The Agricultural Adjustment Administration aimed to manage crop production to impact prices.

Additional New Deal Programs

Several programs, such as the CWA and the SEC, expanded government involvement in economic processes to mitigate the consequences of the Great Depression.

The Second New Deal

The WPA, Resettlement Administration, and the NLRB were critical component agencies of the second phase of the program, focusing on more permanent solutions.

Increases in taxes on higher-income individuals funded the programs, and the Social Security Act established a comprehensive system of social insurance to better mitigate hardship among vulnerable Americans.

The Election of 1936

Roosevelt's re-election solidified a Democratic coalition.

Challenges with the Supreme Court

Roosevelt faced Supreme Court opposition to his New Deal programs.

Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938

This act regulated child labor restrictions, minimum wages, and overtime requirements.

Widespread poverty and unemployment; hardships affected families, migration, and ethnic minorities.

Limitations of the New Deal in Ending the Depression

While significant, the New Deal did not fully end the Depression. Political resistance, economic setbacks, shifts from domestic concerns, limited the degree of recovery achieved.

Disarmament Efforts in the 1920s

1921 Washington Conference resulted in naval disarmament agreements.

Kellogg-Briand Pact (1928)

Renounced war as a national policy, had weak enforcement.

Economic Plans and Policies

The Dawes Plan aimed to facilitate German reparations payments.

Franklin Roosevelt's Foreign Policy

The Good Neighbor Policy ended U.S. interventionism in Latin America.

Rise of Fascism and Militarism

Italy, Germany, and Japan showed aggressive nationalism and militarism.

American Isolationism

Increased isolationist sentiment after World War I and the rise of aggressive foreign powers led to decreased involvement in international affairs.

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Test your knowledge about American imperialism and the Progressive Era through key events and influential figures. Explore the reasons behind the annexation of Hawaii, the impact of Alaska's purchase, and the debates surrounding racial theories and economic concerns. This quiz will challenge your understanding of the era's major movements and arguments.