Why Was There Such a Notable Lowering of Ethical Standards

question 47

Essay

Why was there such a notable lowering of ethical standards in American politics and business immediately following the high idealism of the Civil War? What was the political response to the lowering of ethical standards in American politics in the 1870s and early 1880s? Was this political response effective in curbing corruption in American politics?

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Definitions:

Inflation-Adjusted

Describes values that have been modified to account for changes in the purchasing power of money due to inflation, allowing for comparison over different time periods.

Long-Run Path

The trajectory of economic performance or output when all inputs, including capital and labor, are adjusted to their most efficient state over time.

Small Crop

A small crop refers to a lesser yield of agricultural produce than usual, often due to factors like weather conditions, pest infestations, or reduced acreage.

Drought

A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall, leading to a shortage of water.