The Politics of the Gilded Age (1877-1900)

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Questions and Answers

What was the primary cause of the emergence of the Greenback party in the 1870s?

Discontent with the government's handling of the ongoing economic depression.

A backlash against the high tariffs imposed during the Civil War.

The desire to expand the money supply by increasing the circulation of greenbacks. (correct)

A perceived threat to the gold standard by the expansion of silver coinage.

How did the Bland-Allison Act of 1878 affect the debate surrounding silver coinage?

It represented a decisive victory for those demanding unlimited silver coinage.

It completely resolved the issue by allowing the unlimited coinage of silver.

It was a symbolic gesture that had little impact on the actual amount of silver coinage.

It constituted a compromise, allowing for limited silver coinage while failing to satisfy those seeking unlimited coinage. (correct)

Why did the removal of greenbacks from circulation in the 1870s contribute to the growth of discontent?

It led to a significant decline in the value of silver, hurting miners and farmers.

It decreased the overall money supply, leading to economic hardship for debtors and farmers. (correct)

It resulted in a shortage of currency, hindering the growth of industrial businesses.

It caused a surge in inflation, making it difficult for consumers to afford basic goods.

What was the stance of southern Democrats on tariffs in the post-Civil War era?

They opposed high tariffs due to their impact on consumer goods prices. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did the high tariffs implemented by the Republican Congress in the post-Civil War era affect American farmers?

They faced retaliation from other nations imposing tariffs on American farm products, leading to reduced overseas sales and lower prices. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the main reason for the growing discontent among voters in the late 1880s?

The perceived lack of action to address the problems of corruption, money supply, tariffs, and trusts. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What role did the Populist Party play in the late 19th century?

It emerged as a third party to challenge the existing political order and give voice to the concerns of farmers and workers. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT a major source of discontent among the American population in the late 19th century?

The growing influence of organized labor and the rise of labor unions. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is the correct sequence of events related to the rise of the modern presidency?

McKinley Tariff of 1890, Bland-Allison Act of 1878, Panic of 1893, Coxey's Army, Election of 1896 (C) Signup and view all the answers

What was a key difference between the Democratic and Republican parties in the late 19th century?

The Republicans were more supportive of the gold standard, while the Democrats championed the use of silver in the monetary system. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did the Panic of 1893 contribute to the rise of populism?

The Panic of 1893 led to widespread unemployment and economic hardship, contributing to the rise of agrarian discontent and support for populist policies. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these groups is MOST likely to have favored the Sherman Silver Purchase Act of 1890?

Southern farmers and debtors (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the main reason for the rise of modern urban-industrial society in the late 19th century?

The growth of the railroad industry, which facilitated the movement of people and goods, stimulating industrial growth and the creation of new cities. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How did the 'Cross of Gold' Speech connect to the issue of the gold standard?

The speech argued for the use of silver in the monetary system, believing it would be more beneficial to farmers and debtors. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these was NOT a major factor in the rise of the Republican Party in the late 19th century?

The backing of prominent Southerners who favored states' rights and limited government intervention. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the main reason for the decline of traditional rural-agricultural society in the late 19th century?

The rise of industrialization and urbanization, which led to a decrease in the demand for agricultural products and a shift in population toward cities. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary objective of "Coxey's Army"'s march to Washington D.C. in 1894?

To advocate for the government's intervention in the economy through public works programs. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason for the Supreme Court's declaration of the income tax included in the Wilson-Gorman Tariff as unconstitutional?

The tax was deemed to be inconsistent with the Constitution's interpretation of direct taxation. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the prevailing sentiment among conservatives regarding the economic depression of the 1890s and the social implications of the growing number of unemployed people?

They feared a potential upheaval or class conflict between the wealthy and the working class. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the central argument presented in William H. Harvey's book "Coin's Financial School" regarding the root cause of the economic depression?

The depression was caused by the conspiracy of wealthy bankers manipulating the financial system. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did the outcome of the 1894 congressional elections influence the political landscape leading up to the 1896 presidential election?

The rise of the Populist Party in the 1894 elections foreshadowed a significant challenge to the Democrats' control of the political landscape in the 1896 presidential election. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How did the Democratic Party's internal division in 1896 ultimately shape the presidential election?

The Democrats' internal division weakened their overall electoral strength, contributing to their defeat in the election. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following events or factors contributed to the decline of the conservative Democratic leadership in the years leading up to the 1896 presidential election?

The strong performance of the Populist Party in the 1894 congressional elections and their growing influence on the political landscape. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the 1896 presidential election in American political history?

It symbolized the start of a new era in American politics, characterized by the rise of new political forces and a shifting power balance. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was a major issue that tarnished Blaine's reputation, ultimately hindering his presidential aspirations?

His close ties to the railroad industry and accusations of corruption. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What significant event in 1881 served as a catalyst for the implementation of civil service reform?

The assassination of President Garfield by a disgruntled job seeker. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did Grover Cleveland distinguish himself from most politicians of his time?

He prioritized honesty, frugality, and principled decision-making in his political career. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary target of the phrase 'Rum, Romanism, and Rebellion,' used in the 1884 presidential campaign?

The perceived alliance between Irish immigrants, the Catholic Church, and the Democratic Party. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was NOT a significant action taken by Cleveland during his first term?

Launching a robust program of public works projects to stimulate economic growth and create jobs. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was a primary concern of Congress in the 1870s and 1880s, as indicated in the content?

Balancing competing interests related to patronage, currency, and tariffs. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887?

It attempted to regulate the transportation industry by setting limits on railroad shipping rates. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How did the Dawes Act, passed during Cleveland's first term, aim to impact Native American populations?

It aimed to assimilate Native Americans into mainstream society by granting them citizenship and land ownership. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason for the decline of the Populist party after 1896?

The Populist party's efforts to unite poor whites and blacks were hindered by the persistence of racism in the South. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following events contributed to the economic revival during McKinley's presidency?

The discovery of gold in Alaska in 1897, which increased the money supply under the gold standard. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How did the election of 1896 impact the political landscape of the United States?

It marked a shift in political power from the Democrats to the Republicans, who favored business interests. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the "front-porch campaign" employed by the Republican candidate, McKinley, in the 1896 election?

It highlighted McKinley's status as a respectable and dignified candidate, contrasting with Bryan's more populist approach. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What were the two key factors that negatively impacted Bryan's campaign in the final weeks leading up to the 1896 election?

A rise in wheat prices, which made farmers less desperate for economic reform, and employers threatening to shut down factories if Bryan was elected. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How did Bryan's campaign strategy differ from McKinley's in the 1896 election?

Bryan focused on speaking directly to the people through public rallies, while McKinley relied on the mass media to spread his message. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest were the long-term consequences of the 1896 election?

It ushered in an era of Republican dominance in national politics, solidifying their position as the party of business and industry. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately reflects the author's main point regarding the election of 1896?

The election of 1896 signaled a dramatic shift in American politics, with the Republicans assuming a dominant role and the Populist movement fading into obscurity. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements accurately reflects the political landscape leading up to the 1888 presidential election?

The tariff issue divided Democrats and Republicans, but the election campaign predominantly focused on pensions and veterans. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was a key factor in Benjamin Harrison's victory in the 1888 election?

Harrison's victory was largely attributed to his successful campaign strategy, which focused heavily on targeting specific voter demographics, particularly in the North. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the 'Billion-Dollar Congress' in relation to U.S. politics?

The 'Billion-Dollar Congress' marked a departure from the traditional approach towards fiscal responsibility, as the government began spending unprecedented quantities of money. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant result of the McKinley Tariff of 1890?

It resulted in a major political backlash against the Republican party, leading to a substantial shift in power back to the Democrats. (D) Signup and view all the answers

In what way did the Sherman Antitrust Act differ from other legislative initiatives passed by the 'Billion-Dollar Congress'?

The Sherman Antitrust Act aimed to protect the interests of small businesses and consumers by regulating the activities of large corporations. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary outcome of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act of 1890?

It sparked further debate and controversy regarding the issue of silver coinage, failing to satisfy either farmers or miners. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the impact of the congressional elections of 1890?

The election results highlighted a significant shift in public opinion, with the Democrats gaining control of the House and making inroads in the Senate. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is the 'Billion-Dollar Congress' considered unusual for the era of close elections?

The 'Billion-Dollar Congress' was an anomaly, occurring during a time when close elections and shifting political alliances were the norm. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes