Progressive Era
What was one major social problem reformers sought to fix during the Progressive Era?
Poor working conditions, child labor, and political corruption
What was one motivation for American Imperialism?
Economic gain, military strength, and cultural superiority (Social Darwinism)
What did Wilson ask for in his message to Congress in 1917?
A declaration of war against Germany to “make the world safe for democracy”
Why were the 1920s called a “decade of decadence”?
Economic prosperity, rise of consumerism, and cultural changes
How did the stock market crash contribute to the Great Depression?
Wiped out wealth and shattered investor confidence
What tragic event highlighted the need for workplace reforms during the Progressive Era?
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire
What was the significance of the Spanish-American War for American imperialism?
Gave the U.S. control over territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines
What was the purpose of the Selective Service Act?
To draft men into military service
How did the role of women change in the 1920s?
Women gained the right to vote, entered the workforce, and embraced new social norms
What were two consequences of oversupply and overproduction?
Falling prices and business closures
Name one legislative act passed during the Progressive Era to address social issues.
Pure Food and Drug Act (1906), Meat Inspection Act (1906), or Clayton Antitrust Act (1914)
What did the Platt Amendment establish?
Gave the U.S. control over Cuban foreign policy and allowed for U.S. naval bases
How did the Espionage and Sedition Acts limit civil liberties?
Restricted free speech by criminalizing criticism of the government and war effort
How did mass media contribute to cultural change in the 1920s?
Radio and movies spread national culture and modern ideas
How did banking failures deepen the Great Depression?
Banks collapsed, wiping out savings and causing panic
How did the Triangle Shirtwaist fire lead to changes in government policy?
Led to improved workplace safety laws and stronger labor regulations
What was Aguinaldo’s argument against American control of the Philippines?
He argued that U.S. occupation violated Filipino sovereignty and independence
What was the significance of the Zimmerman Note in drawing the U.S. into the war?
Germany promised to help Mexico regain U.S. territory if it joined the war
What was the significance of the Harlem Renaissance?
Celebrated African American culture through music, art, and literature
How did tariff policies worsen the Great Depression?
High tariffs (like the Smoot-Hawley Tariff) reduced international trade
How did the Triangle Shirtwaist fire reflect broader Progressive Era goals?
Demonstrated the need for government intervention to protect workers and regulate industry
How did the Open Door Policy reflect America’s growing influence in global trade?
Ensured equal trade access in China without colonization
How did the British blockade and U-boats affect American involvement in the war?
The blockade cut off supplies to Germany, and U-boat attacks on U.S. ships pushed America toward war
How did the Great Migration affect American society?
Increased racial tensions and led to the growth of African American communities in northern cities
How did low demand and high unemployment create a downward economic spiral?
Businesses laid off workers, reducing consumer spending and deepening the crisis