Gilded Age Political Dynamics

The video lecture covers the Gilded Age politics, focusing on political corruption at national, state, and urban levels. It discusses the major political parties, their voting blocs, and the influence of monopolists over presidents. Key scandals like the Credit Mobilier and Whiskey Ring are highlighted, along with the introduction of the Pendleton Act to reform civil service jobs. The role of political machines in urban corruption is examined, with a focus on Boss Tweed and Tammany Hall. The lecture concludes with a review of the key points discussed.

What was a key characteristic of the Gilded Age in terms of politics?

• High levels of political integrity

• Minimal influence of political parties

• Widespread political corruption

• Strong central government control

Which group was a significant part of the Republican voting bloc during the Gilded Age?

• Southern white farmers

• Northern white Protestants

• Urban working poor

• Recent immigrants

What was the primary focus of the Democratic voting bloc during the Gilded Age?

• Advocating for civil service reform

• Supporting monopolists

• Preserving white supremacy

• Promoting business interests

Which president's administration was plagued by scandals such as the Credit Mobilier?

• Rutherford B. Hayes

• James A. Garfield

• Chester A. Arthur

• Ulysses S. Grant

What was the main criticism of the presidents during the Gilded Age?

• They were too powerful

• They were highly influential

• They were overshadowed by monopolists

• They were known for their strong leadership

What was the purpose of the Pendleton Act?

• To establish merit-based exams for civil service jobs

• To increase political patronage

• To support monopolists in business

• To reduce tariffs on imported goods

What was the impact of the Pendleton Act on government jobs?

• Increased the number of government jobs

• Eliminated all government corruption

• Increased political patronage

• Decreased corruption through merit-based hiring

How did political machines maintain power in urban areas?

• By supporting civil service reform

• By reducing taxes for businesses

• By providing social services to immigrants

• By promoting free elections

Who was the notorious leader of the Tammany Hall political machine?

• Thomas Nast

• Boss Tweed

• Andrew Carnegie

• John D. Rockefeller

What was a common tactic used by political machines to secure votes?

• Providing jobs and housing

• Supporting labor unions

• Offering free education

• Reducing public transportation fares