American Social and Political History: From Roosevelt to Reagan

A collection of key vocabulary terms relevant to the study of American social and political history from Roosevelt to Reagan, addressing ideologies, movements, and significant political theories.

Ideology

A system of ideas, beliefs, and ways of thinking concerning the nature of man and society; the dominant ideology legitimates existing power structures.

Post-War Liberal Consensus

A period in American history marked by a general agreement among Americans on the role of government and economics, which emphasized equal opportunity and government intervention in the economy.

The New Deal

A series of programs and reforms launched by Franklin Delano Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression, which expanded the role of the government in economic affairs.

Federal Elections

Elections held to select members of the federal government, including the presidency and Congress, where political parties and voter demographics play significant roles.

Realignment

A significant change in the electoral coalition of a political party, often resulting in a widespread switch in party loyalty among certain categories of voters.

Civil Rights Movement

A social movement during the 1950s and 1960s aimed at ending racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans and securing their legal rights.

Cold War

A period of geopolitical tension between the Soviet Union and the United States, characterized by ideological conflict and proxy wars.

Keynesian Economics

An economic theory developed by John Maynard Keynes, advocating for government intervention to manage economic cycles and stimulate demand.

Libertarianism

A political philosophy emphasizing individual liberty, often criticizing government interventions in personal and economic matters.

Gerrymandering

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor a particular political party or group.

Bipartisanism

A political situation where two major political parties cooperate and work together to achieve common goals, often seen as necessary to prevent tyranny.

Un-American

Refers to individuals or actions that do not align with the prevailing values or beliefs of American political culture, often used to label dissenters.

Supply-side Economics

An economic theory that posits lower taxes and decreased regulation lead to increased production and economic growth.

Meritocracy

A social system in which individuals are rewarded and advance based on their abilities and talents rather than on social class or wealth.

Jim Crow Laws

State and local laws that enforced racial segregation in the Southern United States, leading to discrimination against African Americans.

The Imperial Presidency

A term used to describe the increased power of the presidency in the United States, particularly during times of crisis.

Nationalism

A political ideology centered around the interests and culture of a particular nation, often leading to the promotion of national interests above all.

Détente

The easing of strained relations, especially in a political context, often referring to the relaxation of tensions during the Cold War.