22-24 EXAM STUDY GUIDE REV 2024 (1)

Review Topics for Vargas Exam on Progressivism & WW I (Chapters 22-24)

1. Consumer Protection under Theodore Roosevelt (TR)Focus on laws and reforms initiated to protect consumers, including the Meat Inspection Act (1906), which mandated sanitary conditions in meatpacking plants, and the Pure Food and Drug Act (1906), which prohibited adulteration and misbranding of food and pharmaceuticals. These acts were pivotal in establishing the FDA.

2. Dr. Alice HamiltonNotable figure in public health and safety, Dr. Hamilton was instrumental in elucidating the dangers of industrial diseases like lead poisoning and the importance of workplace safety standards. She served as a pioneer in occupational health and contributed significantly to industrial health policies.

3. Mexican ImmigrationExamination of immigration patterns, particularly during the early 20th century, challenges faced by Mexican immigrants—including discrimination and labor exploitation—and their significant roles in American labor, agriculture, and urban life, which reshaped the cultural fabric of the nation.

4. 1910 Congressional ElectionsImportant shifts in power dynamics characterized the 1910 elections, highlighting the emergence of progressive candidates who focused on reformist agendas. Analyze notable candidates and their platforms as they reflected changing electoral sentiments.

5. Wilson & Race RelationsDiscussion on President Woodrow Wilson’s policies regarding race, including his administration's segregation of federal offices and failure to support civil rights reforms, which had long-lasting implications for African Americans during his presidency and beyond.

6. PragmatismPhilosophical movement emphasizing that the truth of beliefs should be measured by their practical consequences and real effects, influencing American thought leaders like William James and John Dewey in shaping Progressive Era reform efforts.

7. Direct PrimariesReform aimed at increasing voter participation, allowing party members to select candidates for public office directly rather than through party elites, thereby promoting democratic ideals and reducing corruption.

8. New Methods of ProductionAdvances in manufacturing processes such as the assembly line, which revolutionized efficiency and output during the Progressive Era, enhancing productivity and leading to the mass production of goods while affecting labor dynamics.

9. TR & Election of 1912Overview of Theodore Roosevelt’s candidacy, the formation of the Progressive Party, and the key issues that prevailed, such as trust-busting and labor rights, which were pivotal in this election where he ran against William Howard Taft and Woodrow Wilson.

10. “Taylorism” & Scientific ManagementThe principles of efficiency and productivity in the workplace developed by Frederick Winslow Taylor, which emphasized time studies and the systematic optimization of work tasks to increase productivity, influencing labor practices across industries.

11. “Battle Bob” LaFolletteRobert LaFollette's impact as a key Progressive figure is notable in his reform movements in Wisconsin, focusing on anti-corruption and fair labor practices, as well as his push for direct democracy measures.

12. Characteristics of ProgressivismCore beliefs include social justice, economic reform, and expanded government intervention to address social issues such as poverty, labor rights, and women's suffrage.

13. Clayton Anti-Trust Act (1914)Legislation aimed at strengthening antitrust laws, specifically addressing illegal business practices and protecting the rights of labor unions, distinguishing it from previous acts by explicitly exempting labor strikes from definitions of illegal activity.

14. U.S. “Preparedness” for WW IMeasures taken by the U.S. including military expansion, increased training programs, and strengthening the Navy to prepare for potential involvement in World War I amidst growing international tensions.

15. Presidential Elections from 1904-1912Analysis of key elections, including the rise of Progressive candidates, their platforms, and the resulting influence on reforms in response to public demands for change in governance and accountability.

16. New FreedomWoodrow Wilson's platform advocating for economic reforms and the deregulation of business monopolies while promoting competition and small businesses as essential to a free market economy.

17. New NationalismTheodore Roosevelt's progressive agenda emphasizing a strong federal role in regulating the economy, advocating for social justice, and engaging in progressive reforms to protect the public interest.

18. MuckrakersInvestigative journalists such as Upton Sinclair and Ida Tarbell who exposed corruption, social injustices, and abuses in business and politics, playing a critical role in raising public awareness and calling for reform.

19. IWW or “Wobblies”The Industrial Workers of the World was a radical labor union advocating for workers' rights through direct action and striking, promoting the idea of organizing all workers to overthrow the capitalist system.

20. African-American Civil Rights OrganizationsOverview of major organizations pushing for civil rights, including the NAACP, founded in 1909, which worked tirelessly to combat racial discrimination and promote legal strategies for racial justice.

21. Henry Ford & WorkersExamination of labor practices at Ford Motor Company, including the introduction of the $5 workday, which was a progressive wage that helped improve the standard of living for workers while also increasing productivity through worker loyalty.

22. Triangle Shirtwaist Company Fire (1911)An important event highlighting workplace safety issues and labor reforms, prompting the establishment of stricter safety regulations and fire codes in the aftermath of this tragedy that claimed 146 lives.

23. “Wisconsin Idea”Progressive reforms initiated in Wisconsin, emphasizing the use of university expertise to solve governmental problems and ensuring that higher education contributed to public policy improvements.

24. Famous Progressive GovernorsProfiles of significant governors such as LaFollette, who implemented reforms at the state level including labor laws, education reforms, and improved social welfare systems.

25. Issues of Race & Gender in the Early 1900sAnalysis of the social dynamics surrounding civil rights movements and women's suffrage, focusing on evolving roles, activism, and movements advocating for equality during this era.

26. “Birds of Passage”Term referring to immigrants who temporarily migrate for work and then return to their home countries, often contributing to labor shortages in sectors like agriculture and manufacturing.

27. Socialism and RadicalismExploration of the rise of socialist movements and radical ideas during the Progressive Era, including public ownership of key industries and labor rights as a reaction to capitalist inequalities.

28. Hammer v. Dagenhart (1918)Supreme Court case concerning child labor regulation and its implications, where the court ruled against federal child labor laws, highlighting conflicts between economic freedom and social reform.

29. Muller v. Oregon (1908)Landmark case that upheld laws protecting female workers based on public health arguments, resulting in legal recognition of women’s unique social roles and rights in the workplace.

30. Lincoln Steffens, Ida Tarbell, Upton SinclairKey muckrakers whose investigative works revealed corruption and significant social issues across various sectors, thereby mobilizing public opinion toward reformative actions.

31. Progressive Amendments to the U.S. ConstitutionOverview of key amendments such as the 16th (income tax), 17th (direct election of senators), 18th (prohibition), and 19th (women's suffrage) that were direct results of Progressive activism and reforms.

32. W.E.B. Du Bois as a Progressive ReformerContributions of Du Bois to the civil rights movement, emphasizing the need for higher education for African Americans and his role in founding the NAACP.

33. Booker T. Washington vs. W.E.B. Du BoisContrasting philosophies on racial uplift, Washington advocated for vocational education while Du Bois promoted immediate civil rights and higher education.

34. Leisure Time & EntertainmentThe rise of new forms of leisure and entertainment during the Progressive Era—such as cinema, jazz, and sports—reflecting cultural changes and societal tensions.

35. Beginning of WW IKey events leading up to the war and America’s initial stance of neutrality, examining how domestic issues impacted perceptions of foreign conflicts.

36. Wilson & the Election of 1912Wilson’s election campaign characterized by his New Freedom agenda focused on reforming the economy, promoting trust-busting, and advocating for social justice.

37. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)Established to prevent unfair business practices, strengthen antitrust laws, and protect consumer interests, enhancing market competition in the economy.

38. Taft vs. TRThe split between President William Howard Taft and Theodore Roosevelt, revealing their differing approaches to progressivism that ultimately led to a division in the Republican Party.

39. Progressive CommissionsVarious commissions established during the Progressive Era aimed at addressing social and economic issues, such as the National War Labor Board during WW I that managed labor disputes.

40. Causes of U.S. Involvement in WW IAnalysis of political, economic, and social factors that prompted U.S. entry into the war, including the sinking of the Lusitania and Telegrams, economic ties to the Allies, and cultural connections to Britain.

41. Wilson’s Reaction to War in Europe, 1914Initial response highlighted by calls for neutrality but increasingly noted an active diplomatic engagement to address global tensions impacting U.S. interests.

42. Mann-Elkins Act (1910)Legislation that expanded the regulatory powers of the Interstate Commerce Commission, particularly regarding telecommunications and railroad practices.

43. Music in the Progressive EraExploration of the cultural significance of music, including jazz and blues, alongside its role in social movements and community cohesion during this period.

44. BTW and U.S. PresidentsOverview of Booker T. Washington's relationships with various U.S. presidents and his influence on policies regarding African Americans and education.

45. Accomplishments of Wilson AdministrationKey achievements including the establishment of the Federal Reserve, the Federal Trade Commission, and significant reforms in labor and civil rights during Wilson's presidency.

46. Ashcan School of ArtMovement focusing on realistic portrayals of urban life and social issues, emphasizing the gritty reality and plight of the working class.

47. The Jungle (1906)Upton Sinclair's novel that exposed unsanitary conditions in the meatpacking industry, leading to public outcry and significant regulatory reforms in food safety.

48. 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th & 21st AmendmentsOverview of the significance of these constitutional amendments, detailing how they shaped social policy and governance in the U.S.

49. TR & Panama CanalRoosevelt's key role in the construction of the Panama Canal and its strategic importance for U.S. military and economic interests, showcasing American imperial ambitions.

50. Immigration in the Early 1900sPatterns of immigration emphasizing diverse immigrant groups, their contributions, and the social tension surrounding nativism and xenophobia during this period.

51. Margaret SangerAdvocacy for birth control and women's reproductive rights, focusing on her role in the early movements for women's health and autonomy over reproductive choices.

52. Wilson & MexicoAnalysis of Wilson's foreign policy decisions regarding interventions in Mexico, particularly during civil unrest and his leadership in dealing with Mexican revolutionary leaders.

53. Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty (1903)Treaty that facilitated U.S. control over the Panama Canal Zone, reflecting U.S. imperialism and its strategic geopolitical interests in Central America.

54. Federal Reserve Act (1913)Establishment of the Federal Reserve System designed to provide U.S. financial stability through a central banking system, regulating money supply and interest rates.

55. Progressives & WW IThe intersection of Progressive ideals with U.S. involvement in WW I, examining how reforms were implemented in the context of the war effort.

56. Niagara MovementEarly civil rights group founded by W.E.B. Du Bois advocating for African-American rights, emphasizing the demand for political and civil equality as a response to Jim Crow laws.

57. Wilson’s Foreign PolicyExamination of Wilson’s principles guiding international relations, including his idealism and the promotion of democracy and self-determination for nations globally.

58. Anthracite Coal Miner’s Strike (1902)Significant labor dispute leading to government intervention and reforms, marking the first time the federal government acted as a neutral arbitrator in a labor dispute.

59. Famous Women Millionaires in Progressive EraProfiles of notable women who achieved financial success during this period, illustrating the evolving roles of women in business and society.

60. Famous New Hampshire FactoriesDiscussion on the notable factories in New Hampshire and their role in the economy, particularly in textiles and manufacturing during the industrialization boom.

61. Holding CompaniesOverview of companies that own controlling shares of other companies, impacting market competition and corporate governance.

62. OligopoliesExamination of markets dominated by a small number of producers, discussing their effects on consumer prices and market competition.

63. Mass Production & Mass ConsumptionTransformation in production methods leading to increased availability of consumer goods and influencing American lifestyle and economic structures.

64. Underwood Tariff Act (1913)Legislation aimed at reducing tariffs and reintroducing a federal income tax, impacting trade and economic policy in the Progressive Era.

65. Hepburn Act (1906)Strengthened the Interstate Commerce Commission’s (ICC) ability to regulate railroad rates, addressing public concerns over monopoly practices and promoting fair pricing.

66. VaudevillePopular form of entertainment featuring a variety of acts; reflective of cultural trends of the era, including the exploration of social issues through comedy and performance arts.

67. New Nationalism vs. New FreedomComparison of Roosevelt’s and Wilson’s competing visions of progressivism, highlighting differing perspectives on government intervention and economic policy reform.

68. Important Progressive-Era ReformsOverview of key reforms including labor laws, women's suffrage movements, and significant antitrust legislation aimed at curbing monopolies and ensuring fair competition.

69. TR’s Immediate SuccessorAnalysis of William Howard Taft's presidency, his approach in comparison to Roosevelt, and the ensuing conservative backlash to progressive reforms.

70. Northern Securities CaseLandmark Supreme Court case that dissolved the Northern Securities Company under antitrust laws, a significant victory for the Roosevelt administration’s trust-busting efforts.

71. Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine (1904)Assertion of the U.S.'s right to intervene in Latin American countries in order to stabilize local governments and protect American interests, establishing the U.S. as a regional hegemon.

72. Dollar DiplomacyForeign policy aimed at furthering U.S. interests overseas through economic power, particularly in Latin America, using financial investment to leverage U.S. influence.

73. Payne-Aldrich Tariff Act (1909)Act that raised certain tariffs, which led to a split in the Republican Party as conservatives supported it while progressives pushed for lower tariffs.

74. U.S. Economy from 1898-1903Overview of economic transitions including industrial growth, technological advances, and the emergence of the U.S. as a global power, characterized by imperial expansion and economic competitiveness.