The USA - Intolerance In The 1920's Flashcards
What happened during the red scare?
Two italian anarchists called Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti were convicted of murder and robbery. There were protests by people who argued it was a miscarriage of justice, and that the judge was predjudiced. But they were executed in 1927.
What was the red scare?
There was a prejudice against newer immigrant groups and worries of communist agitators entering the country. In 1919 there was a series of bombings across the country, which the authorities used to whip up a ‘Red Scare’. They deported over 4000 people, mainly Russians.
What systems were introduced to limit immigration?
From 1917 immigrants had to pass a ‘literacy test’ to enter. A quota system was introduced in 1921. This was replaced in 1924 by the national origin act which strictly limited immigration. This act discriminated against immigrants from southern and Eastern Europe and Asia.
Who were the Ku Klux Klan?
A white supremacist organisation based in the southern states of the USA. Gained popularity again in the early 1920’s. KKK membership to about 4 million by 1925.
What were the KKK’s views?
Opposed African Americans being given more rights. Also prejudiced against immigrants, Jewish people and Catholics. They used intimidation and violence.
What scandal lost the KKK a lot of support?
In 1925 there was a scandal involving the KKK leader D.C Stephenson (was convicted of kidnapping and second-degree murder). The organisation lost much support, and never regained such significant cultural and political power.
