Consider the following changes that occurred in the United States in the late 19th century: Increases in immigration Widespread industrialization Improvements in agricultural technology What was one result of these developments during this time period? A. the growth of large cities B. the decline of labor unions C. the spread of plantation agriculture D. the construction of interstate highways OGT Question #21
The Political Machine Politics in the Age of Immigration and the Gilded Age
What is a Political Machine? An organized group that controlled the activities of a political party in a city and offered services to voters and businesses in exchange for political or financial support.
Period of Greed and self- indulgence coined by Mark Twain Era marred by rise of political machines and corruption Represented the growing gap between the few rich people and the many poor people Why was it called the Gilded Age?
City Boss- controlled all the political activity in the city Ward Boss-Secured vote for city boss by doing favors or providing services for the poor. Local Precinct workers (Captains)- Gained support on a city block or in a neighborhood Organization of Political Machines
Once a political machine got into office it would take advantage of the opportunities for GRAFT…The illegal use of political influence for personal gain Examples: –Getting a city job for a “friend” –Kickbacks –Favors to allow illegal activity…on the take. Until 1890 police forces were hired and fired by the political bosses making it easy to get away with shady dealings. Graft and Scandal
Tammany Hall 1.Tammany Hall was the Democratic Machine in New York City. 2.Boss Tweed ran the operation 3.From , the Tweed Ring pocketed about $200 million.
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Patronage(spoils system)-giving govt. jobs to people who assisted with getting a candidate elected. After Garfield’s assassination the Pendleton Service Act was passes under Chester Arthur that made appointments to federal jobs through a merit system of performance and examination. Made public admin jobs more efficient and honest. Civil Service and Patronage
Why did political machine politics become common in cities in the late 19 th century? What government problems arose as a result of patronage? Reflection Questions