Tammany Hall

In the late 1800s, a political machine like Tammany Hall controlled votes through a network of loyal supporters, ensuring that their candidates won elections.

What does "political machine" mean in this context?

• A type of factory producing goods

• A government organization focused on technology

• A political organization that controls votes to maintain power

• A system for voting in elections

William "Boss" Tweed was known as the boss of Tammany Hall, where he held significant power and influence over New York City politics.

What does "boss" mean in this context?

• A person in charge of a workplace

• A powerful leader of a political machine

• A title for a respected citizen

• A slang term for a friend

Tammany Hall practiced patronage by offering jobs to supporters, ensuring they would remain loyal during elections.

What does "patronage" mean in this context?

• The practice of giving government jobs and favors to political supporters

• A system of rewarding criminals for good behavior

• The process of voting in local elections

• A form of taxation for public services

The city suffered from corruption, as politicians engaged in dishonest practices, including bribery and misuse of public funds.

What does "corruption" mean in this context?

• Honest and ethical behavior in government

• The act of promoting fairness in politics

• Dishonest or unethical behavior by those in power

• A method of funding public projects

Many politicians, including Boss Tweed, were accused of graft, using their political influence for personal gain at the expense of the city’s finances.

What does "graft" mean in this context?

• The act of organizing community events

• The illegal use of political influence for personal gain

• A form of public service

• A legal method of campaign fundraising

The investigation revealed that bribery was rampant, with officials accepting money in exchange for political favors.

What does "bribery" mean in this context?

• A type of legal fundraising

• Offering money or favors to influence someone's actions

• A method of peaceful protest

• A government initiative to reduce taxes

After securing a government contract, the contractor secretly paid a kickback to the city officials involved in the deal.

What does "kickback" mean in this context?

• A formal payment made to charities

• A secret payment made to someone who facilitated a deal

• A public announcement of government spending

• A community reward for good citizenship

William "Boss" Tweed was notorious for leading Tammany Hall during a time of great political corruption in New York City.

Who was William "Boss" Tweed in this context?

• A famous artist

• The leader of Tammany Hall known for corruption

• A local journalist

• An immigrant community leader

Thomas Nast used his political cartoons to expose the corruption of Tammany Hall and its leader, Boss Tweed.

Who was Thomas Nast in this context?

• A politician in Tammany Hall

• A famous cartoonist who criticized corruption

• An immigrant seeking work

• A city official promoting reforms

Tammany Hall actively courted immigrants, offering them assistance in exchange for their votes.

Who are "immigrants" in this context?

• Citizens who have lived in the city for generations

• People who move to a new country seeking better opportunities

• Politicians involved in local government

• Activists fighting for workers' rights