APUSH Unit 6 Chapter 19 Vocabularly

Gilded Age

Period in the late 19th century (approximately 1870 to 1900) marked by rapid industrialization, economic growth, and an explosion of wealth in the United States, juxtaposed with significant issues such as poverty, social inequality, and widespread political corruption.

Solid South

Political term that emerged after the Reconstruction era, indicating the dominance of the Democratic Party in the Southern United States. It reflected the region's resistance to Republican influence and its commitment to conservative, pro-white policies.

Stalwarts

Faction of the Republican Party characterized by their strong support for the spoils system of political patronage, which favored the appointment of loyal party members to government positions, and their staunch opposition to reforming civil service during the late 19th century.

Halfbreeds

Faction within the Republican Party in the late 1800s who sought to reform the political patronage system. They advocated for a merit-based civil service and opposed the Stalwarts, who resisted such reforms.

Mugwumps

Group of Republicans who separated from their party in the late 19th century, particularly during the 1884 presidential election, to support the Democratic candidate. They emphasized the need for honesty in government and reform over party loyalty.

Pendleton Act

Passed in 1883, was a significant piece of legislation that established a merit-based system for federal employment. It aimed to combat corruption by making it illegal to fire or demote government employees based on political reasons, thereby promoting fair hiring practices.

Greenback Party

A political party founded in the late 19th century that advocated for the expansion of the money supply through the issuance of paper currency not backed by gold or silver. The party aimed to stimulate the economy and provide relief to farmers and working-class citizens struggling under deflation.

Billion-dollar Congress

Refers to the U.S. Congress during the years 1890-1892, notable for its unprecedented level of federal spending that exceeded one billion dollars. This Congress was marked by lavish appropriations for various programs and services.

Sherman Silver Purchase Act

The Sherman Silver Purchase Act of 1890 was legislation intended to bolster the silver standard by mandating the U.S. government to purchase larger amounts of silver each month. This act aimed to appease the interests of silver miners and populist advocates by increasing the money supply.

Populist Party

Founded in the 1890s, emerged as a political movement primarily representing the interests of farmers and the working class. It advocated for significant reforms, including monetary policy changes, the regulation of railroads, and a more equitable economic system.

Omaha Platform

Foundational document adopted by the Populist Party in 1892. It outlined the party's core principles and demands, which included the direct election of U.S. Senators, a graduated income tax, and various economic reforms aimed at increasing the power of the common people.

Panic of 1893

Ssevere economic depression that struck the United States, triggered by the collapse of major railroad companies and widespread failures in the financial sector. It resulted in bank closures, high unemployment, and significant social unrest.

Coxey’s Army

Protest movement led by Jacob Coxey during the Panic of 1893, consisting of unemployed workers who marched to Washington, D.C. They advocated for government-funded public works programs to create jobs and alleviate the economic hardships faced by many Americans.

William Jennings Bryan

Prominent American politician and orator known for his advocacy of populist causes, especially during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He gained fame for his passionate 'Cross of Gold' speech at the 1896 Democratic National Convention, where he argued for bimetallism to help struggling farmers and workers.

Cross of Gold

Speech was delivered by William Jennings Bryan at the 1896 Democratic National Convention, where he passionately