Political Machines (USH2.5)
What was the spoils system?
practice of giving government jobs to political supporters rather than hiring based on merit or school.
What is yellow journalism?
exaggerated news reporting to stir emotions and influence public opinion.
Who were the rough riders?
volunteer calvary unit led by Theodore Roosevelt during the Spanish-American War.
Who was Boss Tweed?
Corrupt leader of Tammany Hall in NYC/Controlled Tweed Ring/Stole millions through fraud.
What happened to the USS Maine in 1898?
The USS Maine exploded in Havana Harbor/Killed 260 people; newspapers blamed Spain.
Which battle did Roosevelt and the Rough Riders become famous?
Battle of San Juan Hill in 1898.
What role did Thomas Nast play in ending political corruption?
Exposed Tweed's corruption through powerful political cartoons, leading to public outrage and Tweed's arrest.
Why did the U.S. have economic interests in Cuba?
because of Cuba's sugar plantations and trade.
How did newspapers portray Roosevelt's role in the war?
Newspapers exaggerated Roosevelt's bravery, portraying him as the hero of the battle.
What law reformed the hiring of government jobs in 1883?
Pendleton Civil Service Act
How did yellow yellow journalism influence American's feelings about Spain?
Yellow Journalism exaggerated Spanish cruelty and the Maine explosion, creating anger and pushing Americans toward supporting war.
How did the Rough Riders contribute to Roosevelt's political career?
His leadership in the rough riders gave him national fame/helped him become governor of NYC then vice president then president.
by providing jobs, housing, and services in exchange for votes, and by controlling contracts and elections.
Yellow Journalism/Sinking of the USS Maine/US Economic interests in Cuba.
Explain how Roosevelt's war hero image made him an icon.
Roosevelt's rough rider image made him an American icon- seen as tough, brave, and patriotic-which became a cornerstone of political appeal.