Unit 4 History

Why did Populists have tension and conflict with railroad companies and with banks? What were some political and economic goals of the Populist Movement?

Populists had tensions with railroad companies because high transportation costs hurt farmers, and with banks due to high-interest rates on loans. Their political and economic goals included advocating for free coinage of silver, regulation of railroads and banks, and policies benefiting farmers to address economic disparities.

Why would some people label John D. Rockefeller as a “Robber Baron” and others label Rockefeller as a generous humanitarian philanthropist?

John D. Rockefeller is labeled a "Robber Baron" for his ruthless business practices, including monopolistic control of the oil industry. However, some view him as a generous humanitarian philanthropist due to substantial charitable contributions, such as funding education and medical research through the Rockefeller Foundation.

What led to the Spanish-American War of 1898? What did the USA gain from the War?

The Spanish-American War was sparked by the sinking of the USS Maine and U.S. interests in Cuba's independence from Spain. The USA gained territories like Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines from the war, marking the country's emergence as a global power.

Why did Teddy Roosevelt originally support the Presidency of William Howard Taft? What changed his mind? How did Roosevelt’s creation of the Bull Moose Party Impact the Election of 1912?

Teddy Roosevelt initially supported Taft but grew dissatisfied with his policies. Roosevelt's creation of the Bull Moose Party in 1912 reflected his Progressive ideals and split the conservative vote, contributing to Woodrow Wilson's election.

What was the Progressive Movement? What were some issues that many Progressives supported?

The Progressive Movement aimed to address social, political, and economic issues arising from industrialization. Progressives supported issues like labor reforms, women's suffrage, regulation of big business, conservation, and initiatives to improve public health, as evidenced by the Meat Inspection Act and Pure Food and Drug Act.