Study Notes on the 1924 Election and Its Context

Introduction to the 1924 Election

  • Overview

    • The 1924 election is presented as a significant political event in American history.

    • Contextualizes the election in the midst of the Roaring Twenties with a booming economy.

    • Comparison to the 1912 election, indicating a split among Democrats rather than Republicans.

Context of 1924

  • Economic and Social Background

    • The year 1924 is described as a "smooth year" during the Roaring Twenties.

    • The economy is thriving; consumer goods are popular, except for the plight of farmers who face hardships.

    • Foreign policy reflects a peaceful outlook distinct from the previous decade post-World War I.

  • Transition of Power

    • Following President Harding's death, Vice President Calvin Coolidge assumes the presidency.

    • Coolidge’s rise compared to Teddy Roosevelt upon McKinley's assassination, aiming for election in his own right.

Calvin Coolidge

  • Political Background

    • Originates from Vermont; served as Governor of Massachusetts.

    • Known for his Law and Order stance reminiscent of modern conservative figures like Ronald Reagan.

    • Notable actions include dismissing police during a strike which gained him popularity amid Red Scare fears.

  • Challenges Faced

    • Despite his conservative image, some Progressive roots in the Republican Party remain a challenge.

    • Faces opposition from Herb Johnson, a Progressive governor who complicates Coolidge's nomination campaign.

    • Competitors attempt to confuse delegates with similar names in the MI primary.

    • Demonstrates mastery in political maneuvering akin to predecessor Harding.

  • Campaign Platform

    • Coolidge’s presidency aims to maintain a conservative agenda.

    • Advocates for anti-lynching laws, tax reductions, and high tariffs.

    • Opposes expanding government roles in subsidies regardless of his progressive past involving child labor and an eight-hour work day.

  • Ideology

    • Strong proponent of limited government and states' rights.

    • Represents economic conservativism matching modern Republican ideology.

    • Despite Progressive roots, does not pose a substantial threat to his candidacy due to party dynamics.

Democratic Party Division in 1924

  • Internal Struggles

    • Significant division occurs within the Democratic Party, mirroring past challenges.

    • Key figures include William Gibbs McAdoo, a traditional Southern Democrat, and Al Smith, who modernizes with urban appeal.

  • Democratic Candidates

    • William Gibbs McAdoo

    • Links to former President Wilson’s cabinet, a pro-labor union advocate with ties to Southern Democrat ideals.

    • Represents an older Southern Democratic approach amidst rising urban influences.

    • Al Smith

    • A Catholic from New York, embodies the urban, ethnic Democratic faction.

    • Competes against traditional Democrats, signaling a cultural shift within the party.

  • Candidate Compromise

    • After intense negotiation yielding 103 ballots, the Democrats settle on John Davis, a compromise candidate.

    • Davis:

    • A Wall Street lawyer, former senator from West Virginia, and well-connected yet seen as an odd figure.

    • Attempts to solidify both urban and Southern base votes, but struggles with broader appeal.

Election Issues and Campaigns

  • Coolidge’s Campaign

    • Positions himself as the steady choice with slogans like "stay cool with Coolidge."

    • Campaign tries to project an image of stability in governance, contrasting with past corruption incidents.

    • Coolidge addresses some corruption concerns, yet retains an appearance of effective management.

  • Davis's Campaign Challenges

    • Campaign's focus is more conservative, fraying connections to broad populist messages.

    • Charles Bryan as vice president caters to populism, yet overall platform remains conservative.

    • Emphasis on states' rights over child labor and anti-lynching laws signifies a conservative Republican stance.

  • Third Party Dynamics

    • Rise of Robert La Follette and the Progressive Party causes further instability within Democrats rather than Republicans.

    • Progressive coalition attempts to unite labor, farm interests, and urban movements under La Follette's leadership.

    • Despite strong ideas, the Party suffers from the inability to gain traction as a third party.

Electoral Outcome

  • Election Results

    • Coolidge emerges victorious with a substantial popular and electoral vote majority.

    • Final vote distribution:

    • Coolidge: 54% of popular vote.

    • Davis: 29% of popular vote.

    • La Follette captures notable votes primarily in Northern and Western states, yet insufficient to impact the overall outcome.

    • Deep South remains the Democratic bastion, while Wisconsin favors the Progressive cause highlighting division.

    • The election illustrates a conservative electorate leaning toward Republicanism solidifying status quo.

Conclusion

  • Reflection on Historical Context

    • Examination of 1920, 1924, and upcoming 1928 elections indicates a series of conservative victories.

    • Provides insight into the evolving American political landscape without significant change heading toward the Great Depression.

  • Final Notes

    • Encouragement to engage with history content and reflect on learning outcomes.

    • Resources were mentioned for gaining more historical knowledge, directing towards Hip Hugh History's extensive content.