The 1920s was a pivotal decade for U.S. politics, characterized by a dramatic shift away from the progressive reforms of the early 20th century toward a more conservative political landscape. This transformation was driven by the desire to return to a sense of pre-war stability after the turmoil of World War I, leading to the rise of conservatism under the leadership of Republican presidents. The campaign for a “return to normalcy,” championed by Warren G. Harding, captured the national mood and set the stage for a decade defined by pro-business policies, isolationist foreign policy, and significant social changes. In this blog, we explore what transformed U.S. politics in the 1920s, focusing on the rise of conservatism and the promise of returning to a pre-war “normal.”
1. The Political Landscape Before the 1920s
Before the 1920s, the political landscape of the United States was dominated by the Progressive Era (1890s-1910s), a period marked by widespread reforms aimed at addressing social injustices, regulating big business, and expanding democracy. Presidents like Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson spearheaded these changes with policies that increased government intervention in economic and social matters. The expansion of suffrage, trust-busting, labor rights, and anti-corruption measures were hallmarks of this era.
However, by the end of World War I, the U.S. public had grown weary of progressive activism and foreign entanglements. The war had left the nation economically strained and socially fractured, and the American people were eager for peace, stability, and a government that interfered less in both their personal lives and in the business sector. This weariness laid the foundation for the conservative shift that would dominate the 1920s.
2. Warren G. Harding’s Campaign and the Promise of a ‘Return to Normalcy’
The political shift of the 1920s was epitomized by Warren G. Harding’s successful presidential campaign in 1920, which focused on the theme of a “return to normalcy.” Harding’s campaign resonated with a war-weary public seeking respite from the upheaval of World War I and the overreach of progressive policies.
The phrase “return to normalcy” reflected a desire for a return to pre-war stability and simplicity. Harding pledged to reduce government intervention in the economy, support big business, and pursue an isolationist foreign policy that would keep the U.S. out of international conflicts like the League of Nations. Harding’s message was clear: America needed to focus on domestic growth, rebuild its economy, and move away from the progressive experimentation that had defined the preceding decades.
3. The Rise of Conservatism in the 1920s
Once Harding took office, the conservative turn in U.S. politics began in earnest. The 1920s saw the implementation of pro-business policies, reduced government oversight, and a shift toward a more laissez-faire approach to the economy.
Limited Government and Laissez-Faire Economics
Harding and his successors, Calvin Coolidge, and Herbert Hoover, were firm believers in the idea that government should play a minimal role in the economy. They embraced the principle of laissez-faire capitalism, arguing that businesses should be free to operate with little government intervention. This led to significant tax cuts for businesses and the wealthy, with the belief that reducing taxes would stimulate investment and economic growth. Under Secretary of the Treasury Andrew Mellon, tax rates on the highest incomes were drastically reduced, from 73% to 25% by 1925.
The U.S. government also took a hands-off approach to regulating businesses, believing that market forces, rather than government regulation, would ensure fair competition and economic prosperity. This era saw the rise of corporate monopolies, and industries like steel, automobiles, and oil flourished with little oversight.
Isolationism in Foreign Policy
In addition to economic conservatism, the U.S. adopted an isolationist foreign policy during the 1920s. This was a sharp departure from the internationalist stance taken by Woodrow Wilson during World War I. Isolationism was driven by the belief that America’s involvement in global conflicts was unnecessary and undesirable. The U.S. refused to join the League of Nations and focused instead on promoting peace through non-interventionist strategies, such as the Washington Naval Conference of 1921-1922, which aimed to prevent an arms race without entangling alliances.
4. Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Herbert Hoover: Continuation of Conservative Policies
The conservative policies introduced by Harding were carried forward by his successor, Calvin Coolidge, who became president in 1923 after Harding’s sudden death. Coolidge, famously known for his belief that “the business of America is business,” further entrenched conservative policies. His administration continued cutting taxes, deregulating industries, and promoting business-friendly policies.
Under Coolidge, the U.S. economy boomed, and the stock market reached new heights. However, this unchecked growth also led to significant income inequality, overproduction, and speculative investments, which set the stage for the eventual crash of 1929.
Herbert Hoover, who succeeded Coolidge in 1929, initially continued these policies but faced the overwhelming challenge of the Great Depression later that year, which marked the end of the era of conservative dominance.
5. Social and Cultural Changes and Their Political Impact
While the 1920s were dominated by conservative economic policies, the decade also saw significant social changes that shaped politics.
Prohibition and Its Consequences
One of the most significant political movements of the 1920s was Prohibition, which began with the ratification of the 18th Amendment in 1920. Prohibition was championed by conservative groups as a way to curb alcohol consumption and improve public morality. However, it had unintended consequences, leading to a rise in organized crime, bootlegging, and widespread disrespect for the law.
Prohibition became a key issue in the political discourse of the time, with increasing calls for its repeal by the end of the decade. The 1920s debate over Prohibition highlighted the tension between conservative ideals and the practical challenges of enforcing morality through legislation.
Women’s Suffrage and Political Shifts
The passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which granted women the right to vote, was another transformative event in U.S. politics. Women’s suffrage expanded the electorate, and women became an important political force, influencing the policies and candidates of the era. While many women aligned with the conservative ideals of the time, particularly those advocating for Prohibition, others began pushing for more progressive reforms, including labor rights and social welfare programs.
Conclusion
The 1920s were a period of significant political transformation in the United States, as the country shifted away from the progressive activism of the early 20th century and embraced a conservative political agenda. The rise of conservatism, exemplified by Warren G. Harding’s call for a “return to normalcy,” set the tone for a decade focused on limited government, pro-business policies, and isolationism in foreign affairs. While these policies contributed to economic growth and a sense of stability, they also sowed the seeds for the economic downturn of the 1930s and the eventual rejection of conservatism during the Great Depression.
FAQ
Q1: What was the ‘return to normalcy’ in U.S. politics?
A: The “return to normalcy” was a political slogan used by Warren G. Harding during his 1920 presidential campaign, advocating for a return to pre-World War I stability and conservative values.
Q2: How did conservatism influence U.S. politics in the 1920s?
A: Conservatism in the 1920s emphasized limited government intervention, laissez-faire economics, tax cuts for businesses and individuals, and a focus on supporting big business.
Q3: How did Prohibition affect U.S. politics in the 1920s?
A: Prohibition, which was implemented in 1920, led to widespread crime, bootlegging, and political debates about government regulation of personal behavior. It ultimately became a key issue of the decade.
Q4: What role did women’s suffrage play in U.S. politics in the 1920s?
A: The 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote, expanded the electorate and allowed women to influence political policies, including Prohibition and labor reforms.
Q5: How did isolationism shape U.S. foreign policy in the 1920s?
A: After World War I, the U.S. adopted an isolationist approach, avoiding entanglements in international organizations like the League of Nations and focusing on domestic stability.
