APUSH Chapter 20 Key Terms

Study Notes

Anthracite Coal Strike

The 1902 strike involved the United Mine Workers of America in Pennsylvania's anthracite coal fields.
Miners demanded higher wages, shorter working hours, and union recognition.
The strike risked disrupting winter fuel supplies for major cities, as anthracite coal was in high demand for heating.
President Theodore Roosevelt intervened by initiating a fact-finding commission, leading to a resolution that increased miners' pay and shortened hours, though union recognition was not granted.

Bully Pulpit

A "bully pulpit" refers to a prominent position that allows someone to advocate effectively for an agenda.
Coined by President Theodore Roosevelt to describe the White House, emphasizing its potential for leadership.
Roosevelt's use of "bully" signified something superb or wonderful, a term more common in his time.

Bull Moose Party

The Bull Moose Party, founded in 1912, emerged from a division within the Republican Party between Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft.
It was officially known as the Progressive Party of 1912, reflecting a platform focused on progressive reforms.
The name "Bull Moose" arose from Roosevelt's declaration of feeling like a "bull moose" shortly after the party's formation.

Clayton Anti-Trust Act

Enacted in 1914, the Clayton Antitrust Act aimed to enhance the existing U.S. antitrust laws, particularly the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890.
The Act sought to prohibit anticompetitive practices early on and included specific prohibited conduct, enforcement measures, and exemptions.
The judiciary, including the Supreme Court, has shaped much of the Act's interpretation and application.

Coxey's Army

Led by Jacob Coxey, Coxey's Army consisted of unemployed workers protesting in Washington D.C. during the 1894 economic depression.
This march, officially called the Army of the Commonwealth in Christ, marked a significant early popular protest in the capital.
The phrase "Enough food to feed Coxey's Army" originated from this event, reflecting the dire conditions of the participants.

Cross of Gold Speech

Delivered by William Jennings Bryan on July 9, 1896, at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
The speech advocated for bimetallism ("free silver") to promote national prosperity and criticized the gold standard.
Bryan famously concluded with the line about not crucifying mankind on a "cross of gold," leading to his nomination as the Democratic presidential candidate.

Eugene Debs

Eugene Victor Debs (1855-1926) was a prominent American union leader and five-time Socialist Party presidential candidate.
A founding member of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), he became a significant figure in American socialism through labor movements and political campaigns.
Debs' activism and candidacies contributed to his reputation as one of the most recognized socialists in the U.S.

Farmers' Alliance

The Farmers' Alliance was a significant agrarian movement that emerged in the 1870s and 1880s, aimed at improving the economic conditions for farmers.
It included multiple organizations: National Farmers' Alliance and Industrial Union (white farmers in the South) and National Farmers' Alliance (Midwest and High Plains).
The movement was influential in addressing the needs of both white and black farmers, reflecting broader agrarian discontent.

Description

Test your knowledge of key terms from APUSH Chapter 20 with these flashcards. Learn about significant events like the Anthracite Coal Strike and their impact on American history. Perfect for reviewing important concepts and preparing for exams.