Calvin Coolidge, the 30th President of the United States, is notable for his conservative policies, known as “Coolidge Prosperity,” which contributed to economic growth and prosperity during the 1920s. His domestic policies emphasized limited government intervention, lower taxes, and deregulation, while his foreign policy focused on isolationism and reducing America’s involvement in international affairs. Coolidge’s presidency is often associated with the concept of “laissez-faire,” which advocates for minimal government interference in the economy.
Calvin Coolidge: An Overview for APUSH Students
Early Life and Political Career:
- Born in Plymouth, Vermont in 1872
- Graduated from Amherst College and Boston University Law School
- Served as mayor of Northampton, Massachusetts, and governor of Massachusetts
- Republican Party member
Presidency (1923-1929):
- Domestic Policy:
- Pro-business approach: Limited government intervention, promoted economic growth
- Signed Revenue Act of 1924: Reduced taxes and stimulated business
- Silent on social issues, such as Prohibition and women’s suffrage
- Foreign Policy:
- Isolationist: Avoided international entanglements
- Kellogg-Briand Pact (1928): Renounced war as an instrument of policy
- Reputation:
- “Silent Cal”: Reserved and laconic public persona
- “The Great Engineer”: Viewed as a stabilizer and efficient administrator
- Oversaw economic boom and low unemployment
Economic Policies:
- Laissez-faire approach: Government mostly refrained from regulating business
- Supported tax cuts and balanced budgets
- Reduced national debt by almost half
Social Policies:
- Conserved on civil rights issues
- Opposed labor unions and collective bargaining
International Relations:
- Emphasized non-intervention and isolation
- Withdrew troops from Europe and Latin America
- Promoted economic cooperation but declined to join the League of Nations
Major Events During Presidency:
- Boston Police Strike (1919)
- Teapot Dome Scandal (1924-1929)
- Sacco and Vanzetti trial (1927)
Legacy:
- Presided over a period of economic prosperity known as the “Roaring Twenties”
- Contributed to the overall conservatism of the 1920s
- His policies have been debated by historians for their impact on the Great Depression
Question: What was Calvin Coolidge’s role in American history?
Answer: Calvin Coolidge served as the 30th President of the United States from 1923 to 1929. He was known for his conservative fiscal policies, his support of business interests, and his quiet demeanor.
Question: What were Coolidge’s main accomplishments?
Answer: Coolidge reduced taxes and government spending, signed the Revenue Act of 1926, which lowered income taxes, and promoted economic growth through government deregulation. He also helped to establish the Federal Reserve System, which provided greater stability to the banking system.
Question: How did Coolidge’s presidency impact the economy?
Answer: Coolidge’s pro-business policies led to increased economic growth during the 1920s, known as the “Roaring Twenties.” However, his economic policies also contributed to the widening income gap and the eventual stock market crash of 1929.
Well, there you have it! A quick dive into the life and presidency of Calvin Coolidge. I hope this brief overview has piqued your interest in this fascinating historical figure. Be sure to bookmark our site and come back again soon for more engaging articles about American history. Thanks for stopping by!