Taft Flashcards
Who succeeded Theodore Roosevelt as president in 1909?
William Howard Taft.
Did Progressivism continue under Taft?
Partially – Taft continued some Progressive policies but was more conservative in his approach, which led to divisions within the Republican Party.
What were Taft’s key Progressive achievements?
80 anti-trust lawsuits (twice as many as Roosevelt).
• Introduced an eight-hour workday for government employees.
• Strengthened the Interstate Commerce Commission to regulate railroads.
• Introduced federal income tax and corporation tax.
• Supported the direct election of senators.
How did Taft’s leadership style differ from Roosevelt’s?
He was a lawyer who believed in respecting the Constitution and the separation of powers.
• He lacked Roosevelt’s political skills and was less charismatic.
• He sided with conservative Republicans, which alienated Progressive Republicans.
What was the Payne-Aldrich Tariff Act (1909) and why was it controversial?
It was a tariff reform bill expected to lower tariffs but did little to do so. Taft signed it into law, angering Progressive Republicans who wanted lower tariffs.
What was the Roosevelt-Taft Split?
Roosevelt was disappointed with Taft’s leadership and reluctance to carry out reforms.
• In 1910, Roosevelt publicly criticized Taft and launched New Nationalism, calling for greater federal power and social reform.
• In 1911, Roosevelt tried to run for president again but Taft controlled the Republican Party convention and won the nomination.
What was the Progressive Party (Bull-Moose Party)?
Formed by Roosevelt in 1912 after he failed to get the Republican nomination.
• It split the Republican vote in the 1912 election, leading to the victory of Democrat Woodrow Wilson.
How did Taft’s presidency contribute to the decline of Progressivism?
His alliance with conservatives slowed Progressive reforms.
• The split in the Republican Party weakened the movement.
• His actions led to the election of Woodrow Wilson, who pursued a different version of Progressivism.
