1st Sem Review Unit 9

Urban political machines in the late 19th Century American cities played a crucial role in facilitating the growth of these cities. They brought order to the expansion of urban services and facilities by effectively organizing and managing the development of infrastructure, public services, and utilities. These political machines, through their control over local government and patronage networks, were able to streamline the provision of services such as transportation, sanitation, and public works. They also played a role in urban planning and development, ensuring that the cities expanded in a coordinated and orderly manner.

During the mid-19th century, Tammany Hall was able to increase its power and influence in New York largely because its leaders provided basic services to ordinary people. By offering services such as job assistance, housing, and social support, Tammany Hall gained the support and loyalty of the working-class population. This helped them secure votes and maintain a strong political base, allowing them to expand their influence and control over the city.

The given passage expresses the idea that wealthy individuals have a responsibility to use their surplus funds to benefit the community. This concept aligns with the principles outlined in "The Gospel of Wealth," an essay written by Andrew Carnegie in 1889. In this essay, Carnegie argues that the rich have a duty to use their wealth for the greater good and to improve society. Therefore, the sentiments expressed in the passage are most characteristic of "The Gospel of Wealth."

The Bessemer process was a significant technological innovation in the manufacture of steel. This process, developed by Sir Henry Bessemer in the 19th century, allowed for the mass production of steel by converting iron into steel through the removal of impurities. It involved blowing air through molten iron to oxidize the impurities and create a purer form of steel. This innovation revolutionized the steel industry, making it faster, more efficient, and more cost-effective, leading to the widespread use of steel in various industries such as construction, transportation, and manufacturing.

Thomas Edison's major contribution was the invention of the incandescent light bulb. This invention revolutionized the way people live and work by providing a reliable and efficient source of artificial light. The incandescent light bulb paved the way for the modern lighting industry and had a significant impact on various sectors such as manufacturing, transportation, and entertainment. Edison's invention not only improved the quality of life but also played a crucial role in the development of other technologies and industries.

A Kansas farmer would be most likely to vote for William Jennings Bryan in the presidential campaign of 1896 because Bryan was a strong advocate for the interests of farmers. He supported policies such as the free coinage of silver, which would have increased the money supply and helped farmers who were struggling with debt. Bryan also championed the Populist movement, which aimed to address the economic challenges faced by farmers and rural communities. Therefore, a Kansas farmer, who likely faced similar challenges, would have been more inclined to support Bryan's campaign.

The nativist sentiment against the "new immigrants" of the late 19th Century can be attributed to several factors. The immigrants practiced different religions, had different languages and cultures, and were not familiar with the US political system, which made them vulnerable to exploitation by political machines in big cities. Additionally, their arrival also drove wages down, creating economic concerns for native-born Americans. However, the immigrants dominating the professions of law, medicine, and engineering does not account for the nativist sentiment as it is not mentioned as a reason for opposition.

During the 1890s, Western and Southern Farmers were the strongest supporters of Populism. These farmers faced numerous challenges such as falling crop prices, high transportation costs, and mounting debt. They believed that the government should intervene to address these issues and protect their interests. Populist leaders like William Jennings Bryan advocated for policies such as the free coinage of silver and regulation of railroads to support the farmers' cause. The farmers saw Populism as a way to address their economic grievances and fight for their rights, making them the strongest supporters of the movement.

The correct answer is that the Knights of Labor welcomed all skilled and unskilled workers, blacks, and women. This sets them apart from the American Federation of Labor, which had more restrictive membership policies. The Knights of Labor aimed to create a unified labor movement that included workers from all backgrounds, while the American Federation of Labor focused primarily on representing skilled workers and excluded certain groups. This difference in inclusivity made the Knights of Labor more diverse and potentially more powerful in their efforts to advocate for labor reform.

The fact that Slavic immigrants settled in Midwestern cities like Pittsburgh, Detroit, and Chicago can be best explained by the availability of unskilled jobs in industries such as steel, meatpacking, and other mass production. These industries were prominent in the Midwest during that time, providing employment opportunities for immigrants who were seeking work. The presence of these industries attracted Slavic immigrants to settle in these cities, where they could find employment and establish their lives.

During the 1894 Pullman Strike, the precipitating factor was Pullman's decision to cut wages for its workers without making corresponding reductions in the rents of company housing. This decision created significant unrest and dissatisfaction among the workers, leading to the strike. The workers felt that their wages were being unjustly reduced while they still had to pay the same amount for housing, which caused a wave of protest and ultimately resulted in the strike.

The correct answer is the Institution of a merit and tenure system for the federal administration. The Pendleton Act of 1883 was passed in order to reform the civil service system and reduce political patronage. It established a merit-based system for hiring and promoting federal employees, based on their qualifications and performance rather than political connections. This system aimed to ensure that government positions were filled by competent individuals and to prevent corruption and favoritism. The Act also introduced the concept of tenure, providing job security for civil servants and protecting them from arbitrary dismissals. Overall, the Pendleton Act significantly transformed the federal administration by professionalizing the civil service and promoting efficiency and fairness.

Jacob Riis's How the Other Half Lives is a study that focuses on the issue of immigrant urban poverty and despair in the 1890s. It examines the living conditions and challenges faced by immigrants during this time period. Riis's work sheds light on the harsh realities of poverty, overcrowding, and unsanitary living conditions in urban areas, particularly among immigrant populations. Through his photographs and descriptions, Riis aimed to raise awareness about these issues and advocate for social and political reforms to improve the lives of the impoverished immigrants.

The correct answer is "Guaranteed higher wages and individual advancement for American workers." During the 19th Century, Republicans supported a high tariff policy because they believed it would protect American industries from foreign competition. By imposing high tariffs on imported goods, they aimed to make foreign products more expensive and therefore encourage consumers to buy American-made goods. This, in turn, would create a higher demand for American products, leading to increased production and job opportunities. The Republicans believed that this would result in higher wages and individual advancement for American workers.

Cities built sewers and supplied water purifiers were primarily responsible for the declining death rate in American cities at the end of the 19th Century. This is because the construction of sewers helped to improve sanitation and reduce the spread of diseases caused by poor waste management. Additionally, the implementation of water purifiers helped to provide clean and safe drinking water, which also contributed to a decrease in waterborne diseases. These measures played a significant role in improving public health and ultimately reducing the death rate in American cities during this time period.

The correct answer is advocacy of free and unlimited coinage of silver. This can be inferred from the phrase "Cross of Gold" which refers to Bryan's famous speech at the Democratic National Convention in 1896 where he argued for the unlimited coinage of silver as a way to alleviate economic hardships faced by farmers and the working class. This position was in opposition to the gold standard, which Bryan believed favored the wealthy and limited the money supply.

In the late 19th century, the federal government had various functions, including executing laws rather than making them and dispensing patronage jobs to party loyalists. However, assuring the welfare of the poor and unemployed was not considered a legitimate function of the federal government during this time. This is because the prevailing belief was that individuals were responsible for their own well-being and the government should not intervene in matters of welfare. Social welfare programs were not yet established, and the government's role was primarily focused on maintaining law and order and promoting economic growth.

Vertical integration refers to a business strategy where a company controls multiple stages of the production and distribution process. By integrating vertically, businesses can expand their control over production and distribution as well as manufacturing. This means that they can have a greater influence over the entire supply chain, from sourcing raw materials to delivering the final product to customers. This allows them to streamline operations, reduce costs, and have more control over quality and delivery. By expanding their control in these areas, businesses can gain a competitive advantage in the market.

The American Federation of Labor endorsed the philosophy of "bread and butter" unionism by focusing on demands for higher wages, shorter hours, and improved working conditions. This approach aimed to address the immediate needs and concerns of workers, rather than pursuing broader social or political goals. Unlike other labor organizations such as the Wobblies, Knights of Labor, Sons of Liberty, and National Labor Union, the American Federation of Labor prioritized the economic interests of its members.

During the Gilded Age, John D. Rockefeller and other big businessmen were labeled as "Robber Barons" because they were ruthless competitors who prioritized their own profits over the well-being of their investors and workers. They engaged in unethical practices such as cheating investors and exploiting workers to maximize their personal wealth. This behavior demonstrated their disregard for the welfare of those who contributed to their success, earning them the negative label of "Robber Barons."

The given answer is a valid criticism of the thesis that the federal government pursued a "Laissez-faire" policy during the nineteenth century because providing land grants to railroads and tariff protection to manufacturers indicates government intervention and support for specific industries. This contradicts the idea of a hands-off approach and limited government involvement in the economy, which is the essence of a "Laissez-faire" policy.

The correct answer is "Rags to riches stories of poor boys who succeeded through luck and hard work." This explanation aligns with the basic story structure of Horatio Alger's late 19th Century novels. Alger's novels often depicted young, impoverished boys who faced various challenges but ultimately achieved success through their determination, hard work, and a stroke of luck. These stories were meant to inspire and promote the belief in the American Dream, where anyone, regardless of their background, could achieve success through their own efforts.

During the late 1800s, native-born women who moved to the cities tended to find work as clerks, typists, and sales personnel. This is because the urbanization and industrialization during this time created a demand for office workers and retail employees. These positions were seen as more respectable and offered a higher social status compared to working as servants for rich families or on their family's farm. Additionally, becoming doctors, teachers, or lawyers required higher education and training, which may not have been as accessible for women during this time.

Populism failed because it didn't appeal to many middle class farmers or city dwellers. This suggests that the movement was unable to gain widespread support from these groups, which would have been crucial for its success. Without the backing of these key demographics, populism would have struggled to enact meaningful change or gain political power.

During the late 19th century, horizontal integration, which refers to a company acquiring control over other firms producing the same product, was a response to economic competition. As Rockefeller's Standard Oil Company dominated the market, other companies sought to compete by merging with or acquiring their competitors. This strategy allowed them to increase their market share, eliminate competition, and gain more control over the industry. By consolidating resources and reducing competition, companies could achieve economies of scale and potentially increase their profitability. Therefore, economic competition was the driving force behind the adoption of horizontal integration as a business strategy during that time.

During the Gilded Age, the Presidents were chiefly occupied in the role of being a dispenser of patronage to party loyalists. This means that they were responsible for rewarding their political supporters with government positions and favors. This practice was common during this era, as political parties relied heavily on patronage to maintain their power and control. By rewarding loyal party members, Presidents could ensure their support and loyalty, which was crucial for their political success. This system of patronage played a significant role in shaping the political landscape and power dynamics during the Gilded Age.

The American labor movement of the late 19th Century was involved in a number of violent strikes. This means that instead of using peaceful methods to protest and negotiate for better working conditions and rights, the labor movement resorted to violent actions. This could include acts such as sabotage, destruction of property, and physical confrontations. These violent strikes were a result of the frustration and desperation of the workers who felt that peaceful means were not effective in bringing about the changes they desired.

The absorption of the Populist by the American Federation of Labor did not contribute to the loss of momentum in the farmers' protest movement at the end of the 1890s. This event actually helped to strengthen the movement by aligning the interests of farmers and laborers. The other reasons listed, such as William Jennings Bryan's defeat in the 1896 election, the differing political strategies of Western and Southern farmers, the strain of racism on the coalition of poor white and black farmers, and the decline of the silver movement, all played a role in the loss of momentum.

During the period between 1865 and 1890, various technological innovations emerged in urban America. Electricity, skyscrapers, telephones, and the Bessemer Process were all significant advancements during this time. However, public water systems were not a technological innovation that first appeared in urban America between 1865 and 1890. Public water systems had already been established in some cities prior to this period, and therefore they do not fit the criteria of being a new technological innovation during this specific time frame.

During the Gilded Age, business activity experienced frequent expansions and contractions. This period, which occurred in the late 19th century, was characterized by rapid industrialization and economic growth. However, this growth was often accompanied by periods of economic instability, such as recessions and financial panics. As a result, business activity fluctuated frequently, reflecting the volatile nature of the economy during this time.

In 1890, the most important source of revenue for the federal government was custom duties. Custom duties are taxes imposed on goods that are imported or exported. During this time period, the United States relied heavily on tariffs on imported goods to generate revenue for the government. These tariffs were placed on a wide range of products, including textiles, steel, and agricultural goods. Custom duties provided a significant portion of the federal government's income and were an important source of funding for various government programs and initiatives.

The Mugwumps played a crucial role in deciding the outcome of the Election of 1884 through their criticism of the Republican candidate and defection from the party. This suggests that the Mugwumps were dissatisfied with the Republican candidate and publicly voiced their criticism. Additionally, they chose to leave the party, which could have potentially impacted the election outcome by reducing support for the Republican candidate. Their actions could have influenced voters who were undecided or who were previously leaning towards the Republican candidate.

In his novel, Progress and Poverty, Henry George proposed the idea of a Single Tax as a solution to end monopolies and promote social progress. This concept suggests that instead of taxing individuals' incomes or property, there should be a single tax on the value of land. George believed that this would prevent the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few, promote equal opportunities, and eliminate poverty. The Single Tax would also discourage speculation and unproductive use of land, while generating revenue for public services and infrastructure development.

During the Gilded Age, the economic issue that most clearly divided the Republicans and Democrats was the Tariff Issue. The Republicans supported high tariffs to protect American industries and encourage economic growth, while the Democrats favored lower tariffs to promote free trade and reduce the cost of imported goods. This issue was a major point of contention between the two parties and reflected their differing views on economic policy and the role of government in the economy.

Jacob Riis is the correct answer because he is known for his work as a journalist and photographer, documenting the living conditions of the poor in New York City during the late 19th century. His book, "How the Other Half Lives," exposed the harsh realities of tenement life and helped to bring about social and political reforms. The quote in the question reflects Riis' belief that the majority of people were unaware of or indifferent to the living conditions of the poor.

During the late 1800s in American cities, the residency patterns were such that the very poor lived close to the inner core, the upper classes lived in the suburbs, and the middle classes lived in between. This indicates a clear social and economic divide in terms of where different classes of people resided within the cities. The inner core, being closer to the city center, was likely less expensive and more accessible for the very poor, while the suburbs provided a more affluent and spacious living environment for the upper classes. The middle classes, as the name suggests, found themselves in between these two extremes.

In 1860, the Chinese population in the United States had almost twenty times as many men compared to the number of women. This suggests a significant gender imbalance within the Chinese population at that time.

The feeling that the railroads were exploiting the farmers was the most important cause of agrarian discontent in the United States in the last quarter of the 19th century. Farmers believed that the railroads were charging exorbitant rates for transporting their crops, which significantly reduced their profits. This exploitation by the railroads led to widespread dissatisfaction among farmers and contributed to their overall discontent with the agricultural system.

During the late 19th century in the United States, farmers faced economic distress caused by discriminating freight rates. Discriminating freight rates referred to the practice of charging higher rates for transporting agricultural products compared to other goods. This unfair treatment put a burden on farmers, as it made it more expensive for them to transport their crops to markets. Consequently, farmers sought federal relief to address this issue and alleviate their financial difficulties.

During the late 19th Century, there was a controversy surrounding the social and religious implications of Darwinian theory. Many popular beliefs were felt to be threatened by Darwin, including the theological doctrine of "design," the accuracy of the Old Testament, the uniqueness of man in nature, and the concept of the deserving poor in the workforce. However, the reality of change in the world was not felt to be threatened by Darwin. This suggests that people at the time still recognized and accepted the concept of change and evolution in the natural world, even if they disagreed with its implications for other aspects of their beliefs.

During the late 19th Century, significant reforms were implemented to improve living conditions in major cities. Public water systems, public sewer systems, and the introduction of electricity were all part of these reforms, leading to better sanitation, hygiene, and overall quality of life. Additionally, increased transportation options were developed to enhance mobility and connectivity within cities. However, relief for the poor was not a significant focus of these reforms, indicating that it was not addressed or improved to the same extent as the other areas.

The cartoon depicts a scene where a giant octopus labeled "Eastern Establishment" has its tentacles wrapped around various sectors of industry in America, such as railroads, banks, and factories. This imagery symbolizes the control and influence that the Eastern establishment has over these sectors. The angry expressions on the faces of the workers and the broken tools and machinery suggest a sense of resentment and frustration towards this power. Therefore, the correct answer is "Populist resentment against the power of the Eastern establishment."

Throughout the last quarter of the 19th century, municipalities in the United States faced the persistent problem of inadequate water and sewer systems. This issue posed significant challenges in terms of public health and sanitation. Without proper water and sewer infrastructure, cities struggled to provide clean drinking water, dispose of waste effectively, and prevent the spread of diseases. This problem affected the quality of life for residents and hindered the development and growth of urban areas.

The American Federation of Labor, led by Samuel Gompers, organized skilled workers in craft unions in order to achieve economic gains. This means that the organization focused on representing and advocating for the interests of skilled workers who were part of specific trade unions. By organizing these workers, the AFL aimed to improve their working conditions, wages, and overall economic well-being.

The Chinese immigrant experience differed from that of the Europeans in the late 1800’s because they were excluded from the United States before 1890. This means that Chinese immigrants were not allowed to enter the United States during this time period, unlike European immigrants who were able to immigrate to the country. This exclusionary policy towards Chinese immigrants was a result of discriminatory laws such as the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which aimed to restrict Chinese immigration and limit the rights and opportunities available to Chinese immigrants in the United States.

Mail order houses, such as Sears, Roebuck, and Co., were an important innovation for counteracting the loneliness and isolation of farm life on the Great Plains in the 1870’s and 1880’s. These mail order houses allowed farmers to order a wide variety of goods and supplies, including clothing, tools, and household items, which they would otherwise have limited access to. This provided a way for farmers to obtain necessary items without having to travel long distances, thus reducing their isolation and improving their quality of life.

The Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 had little immediate impact on the regulation of large corporations. This means that when the act was first implemented, it did not have a significant and immediate effect on controlling or regulating the activities of large corporations. It took time for the act to be fully enforced and for its impact to be felt in the regulation of these corporations.

The passage of the Interstate Commerce Act of 1887 marked a shift in federal policy towards the railroads. Initially, the policy was focused on prohibiting rebates to favored customers, which allowed discriminatory pricing practices. However, with the passage of the act, the policy changed to granting land subsidies to the railroads. This was done to encourage the expansion of the rail network and promote economic development. Additionally, the act also aimed to effectively regulate trusts, which were large corporations that controlled multiple railroads. Therefore, the correct answer is "Granting of land subsidies to the prohibition of rebates to favored customers."

In the late 1880's, the states tried to pass anti-combination laws as a response to the use of stockholding trusts to create business oligopolies. This refers to the practice of multiple businesses coming together to form a trust, which allowed them to control prices, limit competition, and dominate the market. These trusts were seen as a threat to fair competition and the free market, prompting the states to pass laws to prevent their formation and maintain a more level playing field for businesses.

The Haymarket Square Bombing of 1886 had the important consequence of skilled workers abandoning the Knights of Labor for the American Federation of Labor. This event, in which a bomb was thrown at a labor rally, led to a negative public perception of labor violence. As a result, skilled workers distanced themselves from the Knights of Labor, which was seen as associated with the violent act. Instead, they turned to the American Federation of Labor, which focused on organizing skilled workers and promoting their interests.