Overview
This lecture covers political corruption in the U.S. during the Gilded Age (1870–1900), examining key events, parties, scandals, and the election of 1876.
The Gilded Age: Definition and Features
- The "Gilded Age" (1870–1900) refers to a period of apparent prosperity hiding deep social and political issues.
- Mark Twain coined the term, comparing it to gold plating that covers up underlying problems.
- America’s global power and concentration of wealth contrasted with violence, migration, and urban issues.
Political Characteristics of the Era
- The era featured weak presidents and a powerful Congress and political parties.
- The Democratic Party dominated the South; the Republican Party dominated the North.
- Elections were extremely close, typically split 50/50 between parties.
- Voter turnout was high, around 80%.
Corruption and Business Influence
- Business interests had major influence over politics and legislation.
- "Graft" (corruption or bribery) was widespread among politicians.
- Notable figures like John D. Rockefeller used bribery and intimidation to shape laws favoring business.
The Election of 1876 and the End of Reconstruction
- The election marked the shift from Reconstruction to the Gilded Age, featuring Rutherford B. Hayes (Republican) vs. Samuel Tilden (Democrat).
- Ulysses S. Grant's presidency was marred by the Credit Mobilier scandal, involving railroad cost inflation for personal gain.
- Hayes supported civil service reform—jobs based on merit instead of connections or bribes.
- Tilden helped take down the corrupt Tammany Hall political machine led by "Boss" Tweed.
- Republicans used the "bloody shirt" campaign to blame Democrats for the Civil War.
The Compromise of 1877
- The election was too close to call, with disputed returns in three states threatening a constitutional crisis.
- Fears of renewed civil conflict led to a bipartisan commission and the Compromise of 1877.
- The compromise ended Reconstruction, which many Northerners and African Americans called "the Great Betrayal."
Key Terms & Definitions
- Gilded Age — Period (1870–1900) of superficial prosperity masking deep social/political issues.
- Postbellum — Refers to the era after the Civil War.
- Graft — Political corruption involving bribery or kickbacks.
- Credit Mobilier Scandal — Corruption involving railroad construction cost inflation and profit skimming.
- Civil Service Reform — Hiring government employees based on merit instead of patronage.
- Compromise of 1877 — Political agreement ending Reconstruction and resolving the disputed 1876 election.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review examples of political corruption and reforms during the Gilded Age.
- Read the next section about urban political machines and their impact on society.