The Eisenhower Presidency Flashcards
Why was Eisenhower criticised for being a “Do-Nothing” President?
- Criticised by conservative Republicans for being too moderate and pragmatic.
- Accused of hesitancy in pursuing bold policies, particularly in civil rights and domestic reforms.
- Portrayed as hands-off, avoiding difficult decisions.
- His frequent golfing was mocked as a symbol of indifference to pressing issues.
Who were some wealthy businessmen appointed by Eisenhower?
- Charles Wilson (former GM President) as Secretary of Defense
- Herbert Hoover Jr. (son of former Pres.)
- Three cabinet members with automobile industry ties
These appointments led to accusations of favoring corporate interests.
What was Eisenhower’s response to the Little Rock Nine?
Reactive rather than proactive
He took minimal steps to enforce desegregation despite supporting Brown v. Board of Education.
How do historians reinterpret Eisenhower’s leadership style?
- As a ‘Hidden-Hand Presidency’ Eisenhower governed with subtle, behind-the-scenes leadership rather than overt action.
- Trusted appointees like:
John Foster Dulles (Secretary of State)
Richard Nixon (Vice President) - Seen as strategically effective, preserving stability during Cold War tensions and domestic unrest
Emphasised persuasion, conciliation, education, and patience.
What was Eisenhower’s public perception during his presidency?
Widely popular with high approval ratings
His moderate policies appealed to a broad range of Americans. In addition, he was seen as a strong, principled leader with a calm and steady approach.
What was the Republican Party’s situation prior to the 1952 election?
- Republican Struggles (1932-1952): Had not won a presidential election since 1928 (Herbert Hoover)
- 1948 Election Disappointment: The Republicans expected to win but were shocked when Harry Truman (Democrat) won despite his unpopularity and party divisions.
The GOP faced twenty years of defeat leading up to 1952.
What was a key factor that weakened the Democrats in the 1952 election?
- Korean War (stalemate, high casualties)
- McCarthyism (political paranoia and divisions)
These issues contributed to growing discontent with the Democratic administration. The GOP saw 1952 as a prime opportunity to reclaim power.
Who was the Democratic candidate in the 1952 election?
Adlai Stevenson
- Governor of Illinois.
- Known as an intellectual, articulate, and liberal politician
What were the four factors contributing to Eisenhower’s Appeal as an Authentic War Hero
Reputation as a Military Leader:
* Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in Europe during WWII.
* Led the D-Day invasion and oversaw Nazi Germany’s defeat.
Public Image:
* Widely admired and respected by Americans across party lines.
* Seen as a unifying figure, above partisan politics.
Cold War Strength:
* His military background reassured voters he could handle global tensions.
Contrast with Stevenson:
* Eisenhower’s strong leadership and pragmatism stood in contrast to Stevenson’s intellectual but less forceful approach.
* Presented himself as the calm, decisive leader America needed.
What was the result of the 1952 Election?
Eisenhower won a landslide victory: Eisenhower secured 442 electoral votes while Stevenson obtained 89 electoral votes, marking the first Republican presidential win in 24 years.
What is Eisenhower’s political philosophy known as?
Dynamic Conservatism
It emphasizes balancing fiscal responsibility with social welfare.
Summarize Eisenhower’s approach to governance in one phrase.
“Conservative when it comes to money and liberal when it comes to human beings.”
What significant action did Eisenhower take regarding federal intervention?
Ended wage and price controls and cut farm subsidies.
Aligns with conservative small government principles.
Which social welfare programs did Eisenhower maintain during his presidency?
New Deal and Fair Deal programs.
Illustrates his his pragmatism.
What challenge did Eisenhower face regarding Congress during his presidency?
A Democratic majority for six out of eight years.
Name two legislative achievements of Eisenhower’s administration.
- Strengthening Social Security coverage and benefits.
- Increasing the federal minimum wage.
What was established in 1953 to consolidate social programs?
Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.
What was the Interstate Highway System (1956)?
The largest public works program in U.S. history at the time, building 41,000 miles of roads.
Facilitated trade, military logistics, and economic growth.
What was the funding mechanism for the Interstate Highway System (1956)?
A federal fuel tax.
What project did Eisenhower collaborate on with Canada?
The St. Lawrence Seaway, linking the Great Lakes to the Atlantic, enhancing North American trade. Cost nearly $470 million
How much did the St. Lawrence Seaway cost?
Nearly $470 million.
What event prompted Eisenhower to promote science education?
The Soviet launch of Sputnik I in 1957.
What did the National Defense Education Act of 1958 provide?
Federal funding to improve American schools and bolster scientific and technical education.
What Supreme Court decision did Eisenhower uphold?
Brown v. Board of Education (1954).
