American Yawp Chapter 16 Flashcards

A management philosophy that applies scientific principles to improve efficiency in businesses, focusing on dividing labor into specialized tasks, improving workplace design, and using standardized tools.

The use of interchangeable parts significantly boosted production efficiency, where identical components could be easily assembled, making repairs simpler and increasing output of McCormick reapers.

By 1913, the U.S. surpassed Britain, France, and Germany in industrial output, signifying a shift in global economic power.

A wave of mergers in the late 19th century resulted in the formation of giant corporations, exemplified by the creation of United States Steel, the first billion-dollar American corporation.

By 1900, a significant wealth disparity existed, as the wealthiest 10% of Americans controlled nearly 90% of the nation's wealth.

Social Darwinism rejected government intervention and charity, arguing that these measures would weaken society by allowing the 'unfit' to survive.

The Knights of Labor, a labor organization, suffered setbacks due to the Haymarket Affair, a violent incident that damaged the group's reputation and weakened its support base.

The Knights of Labor, known for its radical approach, advocated for a cooperative society with worker ownership of businesses, challenging the capitalist system.

The late 19th century witnessed a surge in labor unrest, with over 20,000 strikes and lockouts, reflecting workers' dissatisfaction with their working conditions and seeking better treatment.

The People's Party, also known as the Populists, emerged from agrarian discontent, particularly among small farmers in the South, Midwest, and Great Plains, who sought to address their economic grievances.

The Omaha Platform, the Populist Party's program, proposed nationalizing railroads and telegraph systems, arguing for public control over these essential industries.

Southern Populists faced challenges due to racial tensions and conflicts, making it difficult for them to maintain unity and build a formidable political force.

William Jennings Bryan, a Populist leader, criticized the Gold Standard, advocating for inflation to ease the burden of farmers' debt.

McKinley, the Republican presidential candidate in 1896, outspent Bryan fivefold, leveraging a large campaign budget to secure victory.

The Socialist Party of America grew significantly, gaining over 1,000 elected officials and exceeding 150,000 members, reflecting its growing influence in American politics.

In the 1912 election, Eugene Debs, the Socialist candidate, garnered nearly one million votes, demonstrating the party's significant appeal and substantial support.