Chapter 2 - The Liberal Consensus Flashcards
What is the overarching message of Chapter 2? (The Liberal Consensus)
The chapter emphasizes the precarious state of the New Deal in the late 1930s and how World War II transformed American society, reinforcing the need for democracy and highlighting persistent racial and gender inequalities.
How did Americans initially react to FDR’s New Deal policies, and what factors made them precarious?
Many Americans supported the New Deal, blaming the wealthy for the Great Crash, but concerns about socialism and federal spending cuts made the programs vulnerable, particularly during the 1937 economic downturn.
What event shifted the political landscape and consolidated support for the New Deal?
The bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which led the U.S. into World War II, consolidating support for the war effort and the broader defense of democracy.
What is fascism, and how did Mussolini’s ideas influence other leaders?
Fascism is a hierarchical system that rejects democracy and emphasizes dictatorial power, suppression of opposition, and business-government collaboration. Mussolini’s ideology inspired Adolf Hitler, who applied similar principles in Germany.
How did World War II highlight the value of democracy compared to fascist regimes?
While Axis leaders focused on hierarchical superiority, the U.S. promoted equality and democracy, with diverse American forces and home-front efforts proving vital to the Allied victory.
How did World War II underscore racial and social inequalities in the United States?
Despite fighting for democracy, the U.S. military remained segregated, racial violence persisted, women played secondary roles, and Japanese Americans were interned, revealing the gap between democratic ideals and societal practices.
Who was Doris Miller, and why did he become a symbol of American heroism?
Doris Miller was a Black messman who acted heroically during the Pearl Harbor attack, helping save his captain and operating an antiaircraft gun. His bravery challenged racial stereotypes and became a celebrated story of American heroism.
What role did the NAACP play in addressing racial injustices in the 20th century?
The NAACP worked to promote equality and highlight racial atrocities, notably investigating Recy Taylor’s assault and mobilizing national support through leaders like Rosa Parks to demand justice.
How did civil rights progress after World War II, and what challenges persisted?
The Supreme Court, under Chief Justice Earl Warren, began desegregating schools with Brown v. Board of Education, but civil rights legislation faced obstacles, particularly from segregationist Southern Democrats.
What was “Modern Republicanism,” and how did it redefine American politics in the 1950s?
Modern Republicanism, articulated by Arthur Larson, blended traditional Republican values with New Deal policies, supporting federal intervention when necessary to meet citizens’ needs and establishing a centrist political philosophy.
