Flashcards on 1920s - New Deal Era

This set of flashcards addresses key vocabulary, events, and figures from the 1920s and the New Deal era.

Nye Committee

A congressional investigation into the reasons for U.S. entry into World War I.

Lost Generation

A term used to describe a group of American writers who were disillusioned by the aftermath of World War I.

Harlem Renaissance

A cultural movement in the 1920s centered in Harlem, showcasing African American literature, art, and music.

Jazz Age

A term used to describe the 1920s in America, characterized by the popularity of jazz music and cultural changes.

Charles Lindbergh

Famous for making the first solo non-stop transatlantic flight in 1927.

F. Scott Fitzgerald

An American novelist known for his depictions of the Jazz Age, particularly in 'The Great Gatsby'.

Ernest Hemingway

An American author recognized for his distinct writing style and works such as 'A Farewell to Arms'.

Langston Hughes

An influential African American poet and writer associated with the Harlem Renaissance.

Zora Neale Hurston

An American author and anthropologist known for her contributions to African American literature.

Duke Ellington

A prominent jazz composer and bandleader during the Harlem Renaissance.

Volstead Act

Legislation passed to enforce the 18th Amendment, which prohibited the manufacture and sale of alcohol.

National Origins Act (1924)

A federal law that limited immigration based on national origin, targeting southern and eastern Europeans.

Scopes “Monkey” Trial

A 1925 legal case regarding the teaching of evolution in schools, highlighting the conflict between science and religion.

Ohio Gang

A group of politicians and industry leaders surrounding U.S. President Warren G. Harding.

Teapot Dome Scandal

A bribery incident during the Harding administration involving the leasing of federal oil reserves.

Dawes Plan (1924)

A plan to resolve World War I reparations that involved loans to Germany to stabilize its economy.

"On-Margin" buying

A practice in stock trading where investors borrow money to buy shares, increasing both risk and potential return.

New Deal

A series of programs and reforms instituted by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in response to the Great Depression.

FERA

Federal Emergency Relief Administration, provided funds for state relief programs.

CCC

Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal program aimed at creating jobs through public works.

NYA

National Youth Administration, a New Deal agency focused on providing work and education for young people.

WPA

Works Progress Administration, a New Deal agency providing jobs for millions through various projects.

HOLC

Home Owners' Loan Corporation, aimed at refinancing home mortgages to prevent foreclosures.

AAA

Agricultural Adjustment Act, aimed to boost agricultural prices by limiting production.

NIRA

National Industrial Recovery Act, designed to stimulate industry and improve labor conditions.

TVA

Tennessee Valley Authority, a New Deal program focused on regional development and electricity generation.

FDIC

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, established to insure bank deposits and prevent bank failures.

SEC

Securities and Exchange Commission, regulatory agency created to protect investors and maintain fair securities markets.

Wagner Act

A law that guaranteed the rights of workers to organize and bargain collectively.

Social Security

A government system that provides monetary assistance to people with an inadequate or no income.

FDR’s court-packing plan

A proposal by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to add more justices to the U.S. Supreme Court.

How did the arts reflect the values of the 1920s and how did they challenge those values?

The arts in the 1920s, exemplified by movements like Jazz, Modernism, and the Harlem Renaissance, reflected values of individualism, liberation, and a break from traditional norms. However, they also challenged societal norms by addressing issues such as race, gender roles, and moral ambiguity.

Identify the key black writers of the Harlem Renaissance and their important literary themes. How was it a 'rebirth'?

Key writers of the Harlem Renaissance included Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Claude McKay. Important literary themes included racial pride, social injustice, and the African American experience. It was a 'rebirth' as it marked a renewed cultural identity and expression that celebrated black culture and challenged stereotypes.

How did the resurrected Ku Klux Klan of the 1920s differ from the Reconstruction-era Klan? How influential was this new Klan?

The 1920s Klan was broader in focus, targeting not just African Americans but also immigrants, Catholics, and Jews, promoting a nativist agenda. This Klan was highly influential, enjoying significant political power and social acceptance, leading to a resurgence in hate crimes and discrimination.

Why was President Coolidge called 'Silent Cal'?

President Coolidge was called 'Silent Cal' due to his quiet demeanor and tendency to speak little, believing that actions speak louder than words.

Identify the candidates and the issues of the 1928 presidential election. Why did Governor Al Smith of NY lose?

The candidates in the 1928 presidential election were Republican Herbert Hoover and Democrat Al Smith. Key issues included economic prosperity, Prohibition, and religious bias. Al Smith lost due to his Catholic faith, which caused concern among many Protestant voters.

What weaknesses in banking helped lead to the Great Depression? What happened to the banking system early in the Depression?

Weaknesses in banking included over-speculation in the stock market, lack of adequate regulation, and a fragile banking system. Early in the Depression, many banks failed, leading to bank runs and the loss of savings for countless individuals.