ID Quiz 19-20

16th Amendment

• Definition: Allows for the Government to impose and collect income taxes without dividing it among the states based on population. 

• Significance: Aimed to address economic inequality and provide the government with enough funds for social reform. 

• Related Terms: 

1. Progressive Movement: A social and political movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, aimed at addressing issues caused by industrialization, urbanization, and corruption in government.

2. Income Tax: A tax levied by the government directly on personal income, which was made possible by the 16th Amendment, allowing for a more equitable distribution of wealth.

3. New Deal: A series of programs and reforms implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1930s to counteract the effects of the Great Depression, heavily funded through income taxes enabled by the 16th Amendment.

17th Amendment

• Definition: Established the direct election of state senators by vote. 

• Significance: Aimed to reduce political corruption and give more democratic control to the citizens.

• Related Terms:

1. Progressive Era: A period of widespread social activism and political reform in the United States from the 1890s to the 1920s that aimed to address issues caused by industrialization, urbanization, and corruption.

2. Initiative: A political process that allows citizens to propose legislation or constitutional amendments through gathering signatures on a petition. 

3. Recall Election: A political process through which voters can remove an elected official from office before the end of their term by gathering enough signatures to trigger a special election.

4. Referendum: A direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal and can result in the adoption of new laws or policies.

18th Amendment

• Definition: Ratified in 1919, prohibited alcohol, making it illegal to manufacture, sell, or transport intoxicating liquors. 

• Significant: Was seen as a social experiment that reflected the Progressive Era’s attempts to reshape American society through legislation aimed at moral reform. It was a significant legal shift driven by the temperance movement and aimed to improve societal morals and public health, but it also led to unintended consequences such as the rise of organized crime and speakeasies. 

• Related Terms:

1. Prohibition: The nationwide ban on the production, importation, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages that lasted from 1920 to 1933, enforced by the 18th Amendment.

2. Temperance Movement: A social movement advocating for the reduction or elimination of alcoholic consumption, which played a key role in the push for the 18th Amendment. 

3. Volstead Act: The act of Congress that provided for the enforcement of the 18th Amendment by defining what constituted ‘intoxicating liquors’ and establishing penalties for violations.

Initiative

• Definition: A political process that allows citizens to propose legislation or constitutional amendments through gathering signatures on a petition. It empowers voters to take direct action and influence government policy, bypassing the legislative process. 

• Significance: Is an important tool for democracy, enabling public participation in governance and reflecting the desires of the electorate. 

• Related Terms:

1. Recall Election: A procedure by which voters can remove an elected official from office before the end of their term through a special election.

2. Referendum: A direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal and can result in the adoption of new laws or amendments.

3. Direct Democracy: A form of democracy in which people decide on policy initiatives directly, rather than through elected representatives.  

Recall

• Definition: A political process that allows voters to remove an elected official from office before their term is completed. 

• Significance: Empowers citizens by giving them a direct way to hold officials accountable for their actions and decisions. Recall elections became prominent during the Progressive Era as part of a broader movement advocating for more democratic control and reform in government practices.  

• Related Terms:

1. Initiative: A process that allows citizens to propose legislation or constitutional amendments and vote on them directly, bypassing the legislature.

2. Referendum: A direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal and can result in the adoption of new laws.

3. Progressive Movement: A social and political movement in the early 20th century aimed at addressing issues caused by industrialization, urbanization, and corruption in government.

Referendum

• Definition: A direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal and can result in the adoption of a new law of policy. 

• Significance: The practice was embraced during the Progressive Era as a means to increase democratic participation and give citizens a greater voice in government decisions. By allowing voters to directly decide on issues, referendums helped to challenge the influence of political machines and promote social reforms. 

• Related Terms:

1. Initiative: A process that allows citizens to propose legislation or constitutional amendments and vote on them directly, bypassing the legislature.

2. Recall Election: A procedure by which voters can remove an elected official from office before the end of their term through a special election.

3. Direct Democracy: A form of democracy in which people decide on policy initiatives directly, rather than through elected representatives.

Northern security trust

• Definition: A large railroad trust formed in 1901 by J.P. Morgan and other prominent financiers control several major railroads in the Northwest.

• Significance: It became a significant symbol of the struggle between big business and government regulation during the Progressive Era, highlighting the issues of monopolies and antitrust laws. 

• Related Terms:

1. Antitrust Act: Legislation aimed at preventing monopolistic practices and promoting competition, particularly the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 that laid the foundation for federal antitrust laws.

2. Progressive Movement: A social and political movement in the early 20th century aimed at addressing issues caused by industrialization, urbanization, and corruption in government.

3. Theodore Roosevelt: The 26th President of the U.S., known for his progressive policies and strong stance against monopolies, including his administration’s actions against the Northern Securities Company.

Ballinger-pinchot affair

• Definition: A political scandal during President Taft’s administration where Gifford Pinchot (Chief of the Forest Service), accused Ricard Ballinger (Secretary of the Interior) of improperly opening up public lands to corporate development.

• Significance: Lead to a major rift within the Republican Party and contributing to Theodor Roosevelt’s split from the party to run as a Progressive candidate in 1912. Lead to a public debate about conservation and corporate influence. The scandal contributed significantly to the split within the Republican Party, with Roosevelt eventually running against Taft in the 1912 election as a Progressive candidate. 

• Related Terms:

1. Gifford Pinchot: Strong conservationist and close ally of former President Roosevelt, served as Chief of the Forest Service. 

2.  Richard Ballinger: Secretary of the Interior under President taft, accused of being too lenient with corporate interests regarding public land access.

Jingoism

• Definition: An extreme form of patriotism that often advocated for aggressive foreign policy and military action.

• Significant: The intense national pride can lead to a fervent belief in one’s country’s superiority and a desire to expand its influence or territory, often at the expense of others. It fueled public support for intervention in Cuba and the Philippines (Spanish-American War).

• Related Terms: 

1. Imperialism: A policy of extending a country’s power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means.

2. Manifest Destiny: The 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the U.S. throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable. 

3. Spanish-American War: A conflict between Spain and the U.S. in 1898, resulting in U.S. intervention in Cuba and the acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico and the Philippines.

Josiah Strong

• Definition: American Protestant clergyman, organizer, editor, author. Author of Our Country and a leader of the social gospel movement. 

• Significance: He blended racist and religious reasons to justify American expansion.  His book is used to understand the motivations behind American imperialism, especially on the Anglo-Saxon race’s supposed superiority. He also applied Christian principles to social issues but included an element of racial superiority. His ideas influenced public opinion and political discourse, supporting overseas expansion. 

• Related Terms: 

1. Social Gospel Movement

2. Our Country by Josiah Strong

3. Imperialism

Alfred Mahan

• Definition: American Naval Officer and historian.

• Significance: Was a highly influential exponent of sea power in the late 19th and early 20 centuries. Wrote the book, “The influence of Sea Power Upon History,” it argued that a strong navy was crucial for a nation to achieve global power and economic dominance. This would influence the U.S. to push towards imperialism. 

• Related Terms:

1. Imperialism: The policy or practice of extending a nation’s power and influence through diplomacy or military force, often resulting in the domination of one country over another. 

2. The Influence of Sea Power Upon History by Alfred Mahan

USS Maine

• Definition: A U.S. Navy battleship that sank in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898, under mysterious circumstances.

• Significance: Played a crucial role in escalating tensions between the U.S. and Spain, thought to be staged as an excuse to start the Spanish-American War and to garner public support for military action against Spain. 

• Related Terms: 

1. Spanish-American War: A conflict between the U.S. and Spain in 1898, primarily over the issue of Cuban independence and fueled by imperialist ambitions. 

2. Yellow Journalism: A style of journalism that emphasizes sensationalism and exaggeration, which played a significant role in swaying public opinion toward supporting the war with Spain. 

3. De Lome Letter: A private letter written by the Spanish ambassador to the US. that criticized President McKinley, which was leaked to the press and fueled anti-Spanish sentiment.

Teller Amendment

• Definition: A legislative measure passed by the U.S. congress in 1898, stating that the U.S. wouldn’t annex Cuba after its liberation from Spain.

• Significance: Reflected America's intention to support Cuban independence while also signaling its growing imperial ambitions during the age of imperialism. 

• Related Terms:

1. Spanish-American War

2. Platt Amendment

3. Imperialism

Platt amendment

• Definition: A legislative provision passed in 1901 that outlined the conditions for U.S. intervention in Cuban affairs and established the framework for U.S. control over Cuba following the Spanish-American War. 

• Significance: It limited Cuba’s sovereignty and ensured that the U.S. had a significant influence over Cuban political and economic matters, reflecting the broader theme of American imperialism during this era. 

• Related Terms: 

1. Jingoism: An extreme form of patriotism that often advocated aggressive foreign policy and military action.

2. Spanish-American War: A conflict between Spain and the U.S. in 1898, resulting in the U.S. gaining territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, along with influence over Cuba. 

3. Teller Amendment: A provision enacted in 1898 that stated the U.S. wouldn’t annex Cuba after defeating Spain, asserting that the U.S. intended to free Cuba from Spanish rule.

Foraker act

• Definition: Enacted in 1900, was a U.S. federal law that established civilian government in Puerto Rico following its annexation from Spain after the Spanish-American war. 

• Significance: Marked a significant shift in the governance of Puerto Rico, providing a framework for its political structure and outlining the relationship between the island and the U.S., was characterized by limited local autonomy and continued federal oversight. 

• Related Terms:

1. Spanish-American War: A conflict fought between Spain and the U.S. in 1898, resulting in the U.S. gaining territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. 

2. Insular Cases: A series of Supreme court cases in the early 1900s that addressed the constitutional status of U.S. territories and the rights of their inhabitants. 

3. Jones-Shafroth Act: An act passed in 1917 that granted U.S. citizenship to Puerto Ricans and expanded their civil rights and representation in government.

Insular cases

• Definition: A series of early 20th century Supreme Court decisions that determined that the Constitution doesn’t automatically apply in full to territories acquired by the U.S. after the Spanish-American War. 

• Significance: This created a legal distinction between “incorporated” territories (like states) where the full Constitution applies, and “unincorporated” territories where only certain rights are guaranteed. 

• Related Terms:

1. Foraker Act

2. Spanish-American War

3. Jones-Shafroth Act

Open door policy

• Definition: A diplomatic principle established in the late 19th century that aimed to ensure equal trading rights for all nations in China and prevent any single power from monopolizing trade there.

• Significance: It was rooted in the context of imperialism, as Western powers sought to expand their influence in Asia, particularly in China, which was seen as a vast market and strategic area for territorial claims. The policy was articulated primarily by the U.S. and reflected broader themes of competition and intervention characteristic of the era. 

• Related Terms:

1. Imperialism: A policy or ideology where a country extends its power and influence over other nations or territories, often through colonization, military force, or economic dominance. 

2. Sphere of Influence: Regions where a foreign power has significance cultural, economic, military, or political influence without direct formal authority or control. 

3. Boxer rebellion: An anti-foreign uprising in China from 1899 to 1901, aimed at expelling foreign influence and control, which challenged the Open-Door Policy and highlighted tensions between Western powers and China.

Boxer rebellion

• Definition: A violent anti-foreign and anti-Christian uprising in China that took place between 1899 and 1901. 

• Significance: Was fueled by nationalist sentiments and opposition to foreign imperialist influence, particularly from Western nations and Japan. The rebellion’s context is closely tied to the aftermath of the Spanish-American War, as it highlighted the broader issues of imperialism and foreign intervention in Asia during this era. 

• Related Terms:

1. Open-Door Policy: A U.S. diplomatic policy established in 1899 that aimed to ensure equal trading rights for all nations in China and prevent any single power from monopolizing the Chinese market.

2. Sphere of Influence: Regions where a foreign power has significance cultural, economic, military, or political influence without direct formal authority or control. 

3. Boxers: Members of the secret society known as the ‘Righteous and Harmonious Fists,’ who led the Boxer Rebellion with the goal of expelling foreign influence from China. 

Big stick diplomacy

• Definition: A foreign policy approach characterized by the use of military power as a means to achieve diplomatic goals under President Roosevelt. 

• Significance: Emphasized negotiation backed by the threat of military force, reflecting Roosevelt’s belief that a strong military was essential for maintaining a nation’s international influence and ensuring peace. The term is closely linked to events like the Spanish-American War and the expansion of American influence on the global stage. 

• Related Terms:

1. Roosevelt Corollary: An addition to the Monroe Doctrine asserting that the U.S. would intervene in Latin American affairs to maintain stability and order. 

2. Imperialism: A policy or ideology where a country extends its power and influence over other nations or territories, often through colonization, military force, or economic dominance. 

3. Panama Canal: A significant engineering project completed in 1914 that linked the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, crucially facilitated by U.S. intervention in Panama.

Roosevelt corollary

• Definition: An addition to the Monroe Doctrine asserting that the U.S. would intervene in Latin American affairs to maintain stability and order. 

• Significance: It justified American intervention in the Western Hemisphere particularly in cases of chronic wrongdoing or financial instability, reinforcing the U.S. role as a regional police power. 

• Related Terms:

1. Monroe Doctrine: A U.S. policy established in 1823 that warned European nations against further colonization or interference in the Americas. 

2. Big Stick Diplomacy: A foreign policy approach characterized by the use of military power as a means to achieve diplomatic goals under President Roosevelt. 

3. Panama Canal: A significant engineering project completed in 1914 that linked the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, crucially facilitated by U.S. intervention in Panama.

Lusitania

• Definition: A British passenger ship known for its speed and luxury, making it one of the largest ocean liners at the time. 

• Significance: The ocean liner was torpedoed by a German U-boat off the coast of Ireland leading to the deaths of 1,198 passengers, including 128 Americans. It helped to shift public opinion in the U.S. against Germany and contributed to the eventual entry of the U.S. into WW1. 

• Related Terms:

1. Sussex Pledge: A pledge made by Germany during WW1, following the sinking of the French passenger ship “Sussex” where they agreed to only attack enemy warships and to warn and evacuate passengers from merchant ships before attacking them. 

2. Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: A naval strategy employed by Germany during WW1, where submarines targeted enemy ships without warning, contributing to tensions with neutral countries like the U.S.

3. Propaganda: Information or misinformation spread to influence the public opinion; after the sinking, propaganda was used to portray Germany as a brutal aggressor. 

4. Zimmerman Telegram: A secret diplomatic communication sent by the German Empire to Mexico on 01.16.1917, promising a military alliance against the U.S. during WW1.

Zimmerman telegram

• Definition: A secret diplomatic communication sent by the German Empire to Mexico on 01.16.1917, promising a military alliance against the U.S. during WW1. 

• Significance: Played a crucial role in swaying public opinion in the U.S. toward entering the war, as it revealed Germany’s aggressive intentions and potential threats to American sovereignty.

• Related Terms:

1. Entente Powers: A coalition of nations, including France, Russia, and Great Britain, that opposed the Central Powers during WW1. 

2. U-Boat Campaign: A German naval strategy involving unrestricted submarine warfare aimed at blockading and disrupting Allied shipping during WW1. 

3. American Expeditionary Forces: The U.S. military forces sent to Europe under General John J. Pershing to fight alongside the Allies during WW1.

Bernard Baruch

• Definition: A businessman and politician who was appointed to lead the War Industries Board, playing a key role in mobilizing U.S. industry for WW1. 

• Significance: Leaded the War Industries Board, was a U.S. government agency established in July 1917 to coordinate the production of war materials during WW1. Played a crucial role in managing the transition of industries from peacetime to wartime production, ensuring that the military and allies received necessary supplies while also promoting efficiency and eliminating waste. 

• Related Terms:

1. War Industries Board: a U.S. government agency established in July 1917 to coordinate the production of war materials during WW1. 

2. Liberty Bonds: Government-issued bonds sold to the public to finance the U.S. participation in WW1, promoting citizen investment in the war effort. 

3. National War Labor Board: An agency created to mediate labor disputes during WW1, ensuring that strikes didn’t disrupt war production.

George Creel

• Definition: An American journalist and politician who served as the head of the Committee on Public Information during WW1. 

• Significance: Helped shape public opinion and mobilizing support for the war effort through extensive propaganda campaigns. His efforts were instrumental in promoting patriotism and rallying Americans behind the war, while also influencing how the conflict was perceived both domestically and abroad. 

• Related Terms:

1. Committee on Public Information: A government agency established during WW1 to promote pro-war propaganda and influence public opinion through various media. 

2. Propaganda: Information or misinformation spread to influence the public opinion; after the sinking, propaganda was used to portray Germany as a brutal aggressor. 

3. Four Minute Men: A group of volunteer speakers organized by the CPI to give short pro-war speeches at public gatherings across the country.

Alice pan

• Definition: A prominent American suffragist, feminist, and activist who played a key role in the women’s suffrage movement in the early 20th century. 

• Significance: Best known for her leadership in advocating for the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in 1920. Her activist approach included more militant strategies, such as protests and hunger strikes; they were crucial in drawing public attention to women’s rights during her time. 

• Related Terms:

1. Suffragette: A woman who fought for women’s right to vote, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often employing militant tactics. 

2. 19th Amendment: The constitutional amendment ratified in 1920 that granted women the legal right to vote in the U.S. 

3. National Woman’s Party: A political party founded by Alice Paul in 1916 that focused on promoting women’s suffrage through aggressive tactics and public demonstrations.

14 point plan

• Definition: A statement of principles for peace proposed by President Woodrow Wilson in January 1918, outlining his vision for the post-WW1 order. 

• Significance: Aimed to address the causes of the war and promote self-determination, free trade, and the establishment of a League of Nations to ensure future peace. It was established as a direct outcome of the 14 points, even though the U.S. The Senate refused to join it. Was seen as hypocritical. 

• Related Terms:

1. League of Nations: An international organization founded after WW1 as part of the Treaty of Versailles, intended to maintain world peace and prevent future conflicts.

2. Treaty of Versailles: The peace treaty that officially ended WW1, incorporating many of Wilson’s 14 points but also imposing harsh penalties on Germany. 

3. Self-Determination: The principle that nations have the right to determine their own political status and govern themselves without external interference.

Treaty of Versailles 1919

• Definition: A peace agreement signed in 1919 that officially WW1 and imposed heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany. 

• Significance: Aimed to establish a new order in Europe, address the causes of the war, and prevent future conflicts, but ultimately sowed the seeds for WW1 due to its harsh terms and the instability it created. 

• Related Terms: 

1. League of Nations: An international organization founded after WW1 as part of the Treaty of Versailles, intended to maintain world peace and prevent future conflicts.

2. Reparations: Compensation imposed on a defeated nation for the damage caused during a conflict, which in the case of the Treaty of Versailles, placed significant financial burdens on Germany. 

3. War Guilt Clause: A provision in the Treaty of Versailles that placed sole blame for WW1 on Germany, leading to national humiliation and resentment among Germans.