America, 1920–1973: Opportunity & Inequality Flashcards
What factors caused the 1920s economic boom in the USA?
The boom was driven by mass production (e.g., Ford’s assembly line), easy credit, consumer goods demand, Republican laissez-faire policies, low taxes, and high tariffs that protected U.S. industries. WWI had also boosted U.S. industry and left Europe in debt to America.
Which groups did not benefit from the 1920s boom and why?
Farmers faced overproduction and falling prices. African Americans and immigrants were discriminated against, limiting job opportunities. Workers in old industries (like coal and textiles) saw wages stagnate or fall.
Why was Prohibition introduced and what were its effects?
Introduced by the 18th Amendment to reduce crime and poverty, driven by temperance groups and religious values. It led to illegal trade (bootlegging), speakeasies, and gang violence (e.g., Al Capone). It was seen as a failure and repealed in 1933.
How did women’s lives change in the 1920s?
Women gained the vote (1920), accessed more jobs, and some embraced new fashions and lifestyles (flappers). However, most women remained in traditional roles, especially in rural areas.
How did immigration policy and racism shape American society in the 1920s?
Immigration quotas (Emergency Quota Act 1921, Immigration Act 1924) restricted numbers, especially from Eastern/Southern Europe. Racism was widespread, and groups like the KKK terrorised minorities.
What caused the Wall Street Crash in 1929?
Over-speculation in the stock market, excessive use of credit, lack of regulation, and falling confidence led to a market collapse, triggering a chain reaction of financial failure.
How did the Great Depression affect American people?
Over 12 million became unemployed, 20,000 banks collapsed, and homelessness soared. “Hoovervilles” sprang up, and people faced hunger and poverty on a mass scale.
How did President Hoover respond to the Depression?
Initially refused direct aid, relying on voluntarism. Later set up projects like the Reconstruction Finance Corporation, but too late. Public saw him as uncaring — key reason for his 1932 election loss.
Why did Roosevelt win the 1932 election?
Promised a “New Deal” with direct aid and government intervention. His personality and optimism contrasted Hoover’s inaction. Gained strong support from the poor, minorities, and farmers.
What were the key aims of Roosevelt’s New Deal?
(3 R’s)
To provide Relief for the unemployed, Recovery of the economy, and Reform to prevent future crises. Programs tackled unemployment, farming issues, and bank failures.
What were Alphabet Agencies and what did they do?
Government programs like the CCC (youth employment), TVA (electricity/rural development), and WPA (infrastructure jobs) that aimed to reduce unemployment and stimulate the economy.
Who opposed the New Deal and why?
Republicans and businessmen opposed increased government control. Figures like Huey Long said it didn’t go far enough. The Supreme Court declared some programs unconstitutional.
How did WWII affect America’s economy and society?
War ended unemployment as factories expanded. Women and minorities entered the workforce. USA emerged as an economic superpower with huge military and industrial capacity.
What social changes occurred in Post-War America?
The 1950s saw a baby boom, rise of suburbs, and increased consumerism. But segregation and inequality remained, especially for Black Americans and women.
What was the Civil Rights Movement and what methods did it use?
A campaign for racial equality using non-violent protest (e.g., bus boycotts, sit-ins, marches). Led by groups like the NAACP and figures like Martin Luther King Jr.
What were major events in the Civil Rights Movement?
Montgomery Bus Boycott (1955), Little Rock Nine (1957), Birmingham protests (1963), and March on Washington (1963) pushed for legal and social change.
What were the key outcomes of the Civil Rights Movement?
Civil Rights Act (1964) outlawed segregation; Voting Rights Act (1965) protected Black Americans’ right to vote. Federal enforcement of civil rights increased.
What was the significance of Malcolm X and the Black Power movement?
Malcolm X promoted Black pride and self-defense. The Black Power movement inspired groups like the Black Panthers, shifting focus to economic justice and cultural identity.
What was the Great Society and what did it aim to do?
Introduced by President Johnson to fight poverty and racial injustice. Included Medicare, education reforms, and civil rights protections. Inspired by New Deal ideas.
How far had America changed by 1973?
Major progress in civil rights and economy, but issues like urban poverty, continued racism, and opposition to social reforms (e.g., during the Vietnam War) remained.
Civil Rights Movement
What did the Plessey vs Ferguson case result in?
What did the Brown vs Board of Education case result in
the Plessey vs Ferguson case resulted in African Americans being deemed as ‘separate but equal’
the Brown vs Board of Education case resulted in African Americans no longer being segregated at school. However, Black students faced violence and racism in integrated school.
