Populism

What was the primary goal of the Pendleton Civil Service Act of 1883?

• To increase political patronage

• To create a merit-based system for government jobs

• To expand the spoils system

• To reduce the number of federal employees

Which of the following best describes the relationship between the gold standard and deflation during the Gilded Age?

• The gold standard caused inflation, benefiting farmers

• The gold standard led to deflation, making it harder for farmers to repay debts

• The gold standard had no impact on farmers' financial situations

• The gold standard increased crop prices, helping farmers

What was the main purpose of the Populist Party?

• To support big business interests

• To advocate for laissez-faire economic policies

• To bring about reforms benefiting farmers and workers

• To maintain the status quo in American politics

How did the concept of bimetallism relate to the Populist movement?

• Populists opposed the use of both gold and silver as currency

• Populists supported using only gold as currency

• Populists advocated for using both gold and silver to increase the money supply

• Bimetallism was not a significant issue for Populists

What was the significance of William Jennings Bryan's 'Cross of Gold' speech?

• It secured his victory in the 1896 presidential election

• It dramatically explained the negative effects of the gold standard on working people

• It convinced Congress to immediately adopt bimetallism

• It led to the collapse of the Populist Party

Which of the following was NOT a demand of the Populist Party?

• Regulation of railroads

• A national income tax

• Direct election of Senators

• Increased tariffs on imported goods

What was the ultimate fate of the Populist Party after the 1896 election?

• It merged with the Democratic Party

• It became the dominant political party in the United States

• It ceased to exist as a significant political force

How did political machines typically maintain their power in cities during the Gilded Age?

• By implementing fair and transparent governance

• Through a system of patronage and voter loyalty

• By eliminating corruption in local government

• Through strict adherence to civil service reforms

What role did the Grange play in addressing farmers' issues during the Gilded Age?

• It was a political party that represented farmers in Congress

• It was a farmers' organization that worked to improve agricultural conditions

• It was a government agency responsible for regulating crop prices

• It was a railroad company that provided low-cost transportation for farmers

Which of the following Populist ideas was NOT enacted during the Progressive Era?

• Income tax

• Direct election of Senators

• Regulation of railroads

• Return to the bimetallic standard