Politics in the Gilded Age

Why was it called the "Gilded Age"?

• America had many organizations for immigrants to join.

• America looked bright and shiny from the outside, but had problems, like corruption.

• It was beginning to build many large cities, with skyscrapers.

Which useful function was served by the political machines of the late 1800s?

• They served as role models for city bosses

• •They assisted in the social and political assimilation of immigrants into the community

• They assisted in getting votes for city bosses

• They prevented corruption in local government

Why were immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe in the late 19th century welcomed by industrialists?

• •The immigrants were willing to work for lower wages than most other workers.

• They spoke more English

• The immigrants voted for candidates from the local political machine

Civil service reform during the Gilded Age was in response to-

• Protests from Congressional leaders to regulate state governments

• Demands from labor leaders that hiring practices needed to change

• The growth of political machines and corruption of the "spoils system"

• The problems brought about by rapid industrialization and urbanization

What negative things did political machines do in the Gilded Age?

• provide housing, food, jobs to the working class

• encourage business to expand

• encourage industry to grow

• influence elections, bribe police, patronage, provide cover for murder, violence and intimidation, stealing freedom

What is patronage?

• The act of stealing money from gov't projects

• The practice of not allowing certain people to vote.

• The practice of appointing people based on political support, not merit

• The act of influencing elections unfairly

How did political bosses enrich themselves?

• They used their genius to invent new machines.

• They used corrupt contracts to get money kickbacks

• They were rewarded by the gov't for reforming urban problems

• They invested stocks into corporations.

What was Tammany Hall?

• A dance hall for wedding parties

• Central offices where the "Boss" controlled the Mayor and the Police

• The mayors office in New York City

• A Union office for Laborers and Workers

What made Tammany Hall so successful in its efforts?

• Political Machines were backed by rich people.

• Political Machines helped candidates win votes.

• Political Machines were smart with their money.

• Political Machines used money to help immigrants.

The Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act

• helped regulate the railroad commission

• broke up 90 monopolies

• helped people find jobs

• provided for selection of some government employees by exams