Post-WWI America and the Great Depression

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to post-WWI America and the Great Depression, highlighting major legislation, court cases, and economic philosophies.

Return to Normalcy

Warren G. Harding’s campaign slogan in 1920, promising a return to pre-WWI policies, peace, and economic stability.

Andrew Mellon

The Secretary of Treasury from 1921-1932 who advocated for tax cuts, reduced government spending, and economic growth through supply-side policies.

Laissez-Faire

An economic philosophy advocating minimal government intervention in business and the economy.

Fordney-McCumber Tariff

A high tariff that raised duties on imported goods to protect American industries but hurt international trade.

HALT

Acronym summarizing the causes of the Great Depression: High tariffs, Agricultural overproduction, Laissez-faire policies, and Technological unemployment.

Schneck v. US

Case that upheld restrictions on free speech during wartime, introducing the 'clear and present danger' test.

Adkins v. Children's Hospital

1923 case that overturned minimum wage laws for women, arguing they had equal rights after the 19th Amendment.

Butler v. US

1935 case that struck down the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA), ruling it unconstitutional.

Shecter v. US

1935 case that declared the National Industrial Recovery Act (NIRA) unconstitutional, limiting government regulation of industry.

Rugged Individualism

Hoover’s belief that people should rely on personal effort rather than government aid.

Agri Marketing Act

1929 act that created the Federal Farm Board to stabilize crop prices but failed due to overproduction.

Bonus Army

A group of WWI veterans who marched on Washington to demand early bonus payments; Hoover’s forceful removal of them hurt his popularity.

Norris-LaGuardia Act

Limited courts’ ability to issue injunctions against labor strikes and banned yellow-dog contracts.

Public Works

Government-funded projects like the Hoover Dam aimed at creating jobs during the Great Depression.

Moratorium

Hoover’s plan to temporarily halt war debt payments to stabilize international economies.

Federal Farm Board

Provided loans and subsidies to farmers but was ineffective in stopping the agricultural crisis.

Hawley-Smoot Tariff

Raised tariffs to protect American businesses but worsened the global economic depression.