6.1 Gilded Age Politics

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A period of rapid industrialization, urbanization, and economic growth in the U.S., marked by wealth and technological progress but also political corruption, inequality, and social problems. Term coined by Mark Twain to suggest a glittering surface hiding deeper issues.

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The Gilded Age

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A major political scandal involving the Union Pacific Railroad and the Credit Mobilier construction company, which bribed members of Congress with stock to avoid investigation of overcharging for railroad construction. Symbolized Gilded Age corruption.

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Credit Mobilier Affair

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A powerful Democratic political machine in New York City, led by Boss Tweed in the 1860s–70s. Controlled city politics through patronage and corruption, providing services to immigrants in exchange for votes.

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Tammany Hall

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Organizations that controlled local politics through patronage, bribery, and voter manipulation. They often helped immigrants with jobs and housing in exchange for political loyalty. Example: Tammany Hall.

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Political Machines

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Agreement that ended the disputed 1876 presidential election. Democrats accepted Rutherford B. Hayes as president in exchange for the removal of federal troops from the South, effectively ending Reconstruction and allowing 'Redeemer' governments to rise.

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Compromise of 1877

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Post-Reconstruction vision promoted by Southern leaders advocating industrialization, economic diversification, and modernization while maintaining white supremacy and segregation.

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New South

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State and local laws in the South enforcing racial segregation and disenfranchisement of African Americans after Reconstruction, lasting into the mid-20th century.

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Jim Crow Laws

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Supreme Court case that upheld racial segregation under the 'separate but equal' doctrine, legitimizing Jim Crow laws and institutionalizing discrimination.

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Plessy v. Ferguson (1896)

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Southern Democratic leaders who regained political power after Reconstruction, aiming to restore white supremacy and dismantle Republican reforms, including rights for African Americans.

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Redeemers

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First significant federal law restricting immigration, banning Chinese laborers from entering the U.S. due to nativist and racist sentiments during economic downturns.

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Chinese Exclusion Act (1882)