24.4 Republican Ascendancy: Politics in the 1920s

Learning Objectives

• Understand Warren G. Harding's presidency strengths and weaknesses.
• Analyze Calvin Coolidge's electoral victory over the Democratic Party.
• Interpret Coolidge's statement, "the business of America is business."

Context

• 1920 election marked a shift away from the Progressive Era.
• Democratic Party weakened by the deaths and declining health of key leaders.
• The Red Scare and League of Nations controversy alienated key voter groups.
• General fatigue with reform and progressivism set the stage for change.

Warren Harding: Return to Normalcy

• Nomination: Harding was seen as a candidate easily managed by Republicans.
• Campaign Theme: "America's present need is not heroics but healing; not nostrums but normalcy; not revolution but restoration."
• Personality: Genial and affable, criticized for weak oratory skills.
• Election Victory: Defeated James Cox with a record 61% of the popular vote.

Harding's Administration

• Cabinet: Pro-business, including Herbert Hoover (Commerce) and Andrew Mellon (Treasury).
• Policies: Tax cuts, budget reforms, and tariffs to protect U.S. industries.
• Foreign Policy: Initiated peace through international cooperation and armament reduction.
• Scandals: Teapot Dome scandal involving Secretary of the Interior Albert B. Fall.
• Personal Issues: Surrounded by dishonest advisors, leading to multiple scandals.

Harding's Death

• Died of a heart attack in 1923, succeeded by Vice President Calvin Coolidge.

Calvin Coolidge: Silent Cal

• Approach: Known for inactivity and restraint, focusing on restoring honesty to the presidency.
• Economic Beliefs: Advocated for minimal government interference in business.
• 1924 Election: Easily won against divided Democrats and Progressive Robert M. La Follette.

The 1928 Election

• Coolidge's Decision: Opted not to run for reelection, paving the way for Herbert Hoover.
• Candidates: Hoover (Republican) vs. Alfred E. Smith (Democrat).
• Outcome: Hoover's victory represented continued confidence in Republican leadership.

Key Themes

• Return to pro-business policies reminiscent of the Gilded Age.
• Efforts to stabilize and reduce government size and spending.
• Republican dominance in the political landscape of the 1920s.
• Cultural and political tensions highlighted in the 1928 election.