ID: Return to Normalcy
WHEN: 1920 (Specifically following World War I)
WHO: President Warren G. Harding
WHAT:
“Return to Normalcy” was Warren G. Harding’s presidential campaign slogan in 1920. It represented a desire to go back to the way life was before World War I and the Progressive Era. This meant a focus on domestic issues, less government intervention in the economy, and a retreat from international affairs. It included policies that supported business growth, limited immigration, and promoted traditional values. It was a rejection of Wilsonian idealism and the social reforms of the previous decades.
IMPACT:
- Electoral Victory: The slogan resonated with a war-weary public, contributing significantly to Harding’s landslide victory in the 1920 election.
- Shift in Political Focus: Signaled a shift away from Progressive Era reforms and international involvement towards pro-business policies and isolationism. This marked a more conservative era in American politics.
- Economic Growth: Harding’s policies, such as lower taxes and reduced regulation, contributed to the economic boom of the “Roaring Twenties.”
- Isolationism: The “Return to Normalcy” reinforced American isolationist tendencies, leading to reluctance to join the 2425/apush/ids/u7/League of Nations and a focus on domestic affairs.
- End of an Era: The Era of Progressive reform had ended and America had entered a new era of prosperity that was exclusive and favored business.