1. Political and Economic Challenges during the Gilded Age
Essential Question:
Why did the political structure change during the Gilded Age?

2. Weak Presidents Hayes wins b/c secret deal (Compromise of 1877)
Benjamin Harrison lost popular vote; won electoral vote
Chester Arthur took over after James Garfield was assassinated

3. Strong President Grover Cleveland Known for integrity
Won 1892 election

4. The Public and Corruption
Public knew about corruption and expressed their views through political cartoons
“The Bosses of the Senate” by Joseph Keppler
Thomas Nast –cartoons exposing William Marcy “Boss” Tweed

7. Gvmnt during Gilded Age
Corrupt
Spoils system
Led to Garfield’s assassination
Led to civil service system
Pendleton Civil Service Act—created by Pres. Arthur after assassination
Creates a civil service exam—job depends on how well you do on the test (merit)

8. Economic Challenges Money based on gold standard Got rid of greenbacks
Wanted to coin silver
Some thought if they did, prices would inflate and hurt trade but help the farmers

9. Economic Challenges Disagreements over tariffs
Rep—favor high tariffs b/c allows US industries to grow and promote jobs
Dem—said they’d increase costs of goods to consumers and make it more difficult for farmers to sell abroad.

10. Target Goal
Redraw the cartoon “Bosses of the Senate” to fit today’s society (& govt). Who or what companies do you think drives Congress?
Write 1 paragraph to explain your cartoon and why you chose those people/companies.