1. Corruption Plagues the Nation
Notes 10.3

2. Political Power Proves Difficult to Keep
Grant was a disappointing president, although a war hero, he had scandals and corruption which made his presidency weak
Many members of his cabinet and appointment were greedy and took political bribes

3. Political Power Proves Difficult to Keep
In comparison to Lincoln, Republican presidents of the Gilded Age were weak
Hayes, Harrison, Garfield, and Arthur
Grover Cleveland was a democrat president known for his integrity

4. Growth of Political Machines and Corruption
Spoils system awarded jobs to supporters regardless of qualifications
Political machines were corrupt, and elected people to office by buying votes and rewarded jobs to supporters
Pendergast (Kansas City) “Boss” Tweed (NYC)

5. Growth of Political Machines and Corruption
Pendleton Civil Service Act bureaucrats hired based upon ability rather than political affiliation
They take an exam to get a federal job
Enacted after the assassination of Garfield

6. Economic Policy Challenges Continue
Panic of 1873 – bank failures, job losses, and unstable economy
Politicians began to debate whether the gold standard should stay in affect
Gold standard – paper money was back by gold reserves

7. Economic Policy Challenges Continue
Tariffs were argued by both sides whether they helped or hurt American economy
Conflict was over whether money was backed by gold and silver or just gold
Farmers supported silver and gold
Bankers supported gold