Unit 7B

What were the effects of the Red Scare after World War I?

A nationwide campaign against suspected communists, Palmer Raids, deportation of immigrants, criminal syndicalism laws, weakened labor unions, increased fear of immigrants.

How did the Ku Klux Klan of the 1920s differ from the Reconstruction-era KKK?

The 1920s KKK targeted various groups, was larger with 5 million members, acted as an anti-modern movement, and had a significant social/political presence.

What were the provisions and purpose of the Immigration Act of 1924?

Cut immigration quotas from 3% to 2% based on the 1890 population, favored northern Europeans, and aimed to limit immigrants from southern and eastern Europe.

What were the negative effects of Prohibition?

Rise of bootlegging and speakeasies, growth of organized crime, corruption among officials, dangerous homemade alcohol, and widespread law ignoring.

What was the significance of the Scopes Trial?

A conflict between modern science and traditional religious beliefs, highlighting the cultural divide and weakening fundamentalists' influence.

How did advertising and the installment plan change American culture?

Advertising encouraged consumerism, while the installment plan allowed average Americans to purchase costly items, fueling the economy and personal debt.

How did the automobile impact the economy and society?

Created jobs, boosted industries, increased mobility, grew suburbs, and altered dating culture, while also causing accidents and criminal getaways.

How did the radio impact life in the 1920s?

Unified American culture, popularized sports, allowed politicians to reach broad audiences, and became an important advertising medium.

What was the significance of the Harlem Renaissance?

A movement celebrating African American culture and identity, increasing visibility and pride, and producing influential figures and art.

What factors allowed big business to flourish during the 1920s?

Laissez-faire policies, pro-business federal policies, high tariffs, and supported big businesses with limited labor protection.

Why did the labor movement struggle after World War I?

Competition from returning veterans, Red Scare suspicions, negative public opinion associating unions with radicalism, and lack of government support.

What were the provisions of the Adjusted Compensation Act, and why did Coolidge veto it?

Provided bonus payments to WWI veterans, but Coolidge vetoed it due to concerns about government spending.

What were the provisions of the McNary–Haugen Bill? Why did Coolidge veto it?

Proposed federal support for struggling farmers by buying surplus; Coolidge vetoed it for its cost and the role of government.

What problems were facing farmers in the 1920s?

Overproduction, falling prices, heavy debt, and low profits made it challenging for farmers to sustain their livelihood.

What were Andrew Mellon's arguments for lowering tax rates?

Lower taxes would stimulate investment, encourage reinvestment by wealthy individuals and corporations, and eventually increase government revenue.

What agreements were reached at the Washington Naval Conference?

Disarmament agreements that limited battleship construction and supported the Open Door policy in China.

What were the provisions of the Kellogg–Briand Pact?

Nations renounced war for settling disputes; it was idealistic but lacked enforcement mechanisms.

Why did Great Britain and France struggle to repay their debts after World War I?

Their economies were devastated by war, tariffs limited U.S. sales, and they relied on German reparations, which were also unfulfilled.

What were the provisions of the Dawes Plan, and why was it passed?

A loan system to stabilize the economy by helping Germany pay reparations; passed to avoid conflict and stabilize the global economy.

What were the long-term causes of the Great Depression?

Farmers' struggles, overproduction, consumer debt, growing disparity in wealth, and weaknesses in key industries contributed to economic fragility.

What was Hoover’s initial response to the Great Depression?

He believed in limited government intervention and relied on private sectors and local efforts instead of direct federal relief.

In what way was the Hoover Dam a success?

Provided jobs during the Depression, represented effective federal spending, and inspired future public work projects.

What was the purpose of the Reconstruction Finance Corporation (RFC) and its success rate?

Loaned money to support banks and businesses but failed to provide immediate help to ordinary Americans.

Why did the Bonus Army travel to Washington, D.C., and what was the significance of Hoover’s decision to evict them?

To demand early payment for their bonuses; the eviction damaged Hoover’s reputation and political support.

What was the significance of Roosevelt’s fireside chats?

Restored public confidence in the banking system and connected the President directly with American citizens.

What were some grounds for criticism of the New Deal?

Critics argued it didn't go far enough, was too costly, and threatened free enterprise.

What were the causes and effects of the Dust Bowl?

Causes included drought and overfarming; effects were widespread crop failures and migration.

What were the provisions of the Indian Reorganization Act (1934)?

Encouraged self-government, preserved Native traditions, and sought to revive cultural identity.

What are the differences between the AFL and CIO?

AFL represented skilled workers only; CIO included unskilled workers and led aggressive organizing efforts.

Why did Roosevelt propose increasing the number of Supreme Court justices and why did Congress refuse?

To counteract a court striking down New Deal laws; Congress viewed it as an attempt to upset checks and balances.

How did John Maynard Keynes suggest the government stimulate the economy?

Through deficit spending to stimulate demand during economic downturns.

What were the provisions of the Hatch Act (1939)?

Prevented federal employees from campaigning politically to reduce corruption.

What were arguments for and against New Deal reforms?

For: relief, hope, and expanded government responsibility; Against: expense, threats to free enterprise, and inadequate assistance for the poor.