Calvin Coolidge and His Presidency

Calvin Coolidge, known as 'Silent Cal', was a former Republican governor of Massachusetts who became U.S. President in 1923. Despite his nickname, he was active in public communication, holding more press conferences than any previous president and connecting with Americans through radio. Coolidge believed in minimal government interference in the economy, cutting taxes and easing regulations. His policies contributed to the economic boom of the Roaring 20s but also led to risky investments and insufficient financial oversight, culminating in the stock market crash after his presidency. Coolidge's governance style is seen as a precursor to modern conservatism.

What was Calvin Coolidge's nickname?

• Silent Cal

• Loud Cal

• Busy Cal

• Active Cal

How did Coolidge connect with Americans?

• By traveling across the country

• Through regular radio addresses

• By writing letters

• Through town hall meetings

When did Coolidge become president?

• 1925

• 1930

• 1920

• 1923

What was Coolidge's belief about government and the economy?

• Government should only focus on agriculture

• Government should stay out of the way of a growing economy

• Government should heavily regulate the economy

• Government should control all businesses

Why did Coolidge veto bills to provide direct relief to farmers?

• He wanted to save money

• He believed farmers did not need help

• He did not want government interfering with agricultural markets

• He thought the bills were unnecessary

What was a downside of the prosperity during Coolidge's presidency?

• Questionable investing by citizens

• Higher taxes

• Increased government control

• Decreased wealth

What happened to the stock market not long after Coolidge left office?

• It collapsed

• It was heavily regulated

• It boomed

• It remained stable

How is Coolidge's style of governing viewed in modern times?

• As ineffective

• As outdated

• As overly liberal

• As a predecessor of modern-day conservatism