Return to Normalcy
Definition
This was a campaign slogan used by Warren G. Harding during the 1920 U.S. Presidential election, promising a return to pre-World War I conditions and policies.
Analogy
Think of it like after you've had a big party at your house with lots of guests, noise, and chaos. The next day, you just want everything to go back to how it was before - quiet, calm, and familiar. That's what Harding promised America - a return to the 'normal' they knew before the war.
Historical Context
The phrase "Return to Normalcy" was popularized by Warren G. Harding during his successful 1920 presidential campaign in the aftermath of World War I and the Spanish Influenza pandemic. The United States had undergone significant social and political changes, including the Progressive Era reforms and involvement in the Great War. Harding's message was a call for a return to the pre-war mentality and way of life, which many Americans found comforting.Historical Significance
Harding's "Return to Normalcy" resonated with a populace exhausted by war and upheaval, leading to his election as President. The concept reflected a broader desire for stability and conservatism after years of progressive reforms and international conflict. It marked a shift towards isolationism in U.S. foreign policy and a focus on domestic issues, setting the tone for American politics throughout the Roaring Twenties until the onset of the Great Depression challenged this sentiment.Related terms
Isolationism: A policy or doctrine advocating that a nation should stay out of the disputes and affairs of other nations.
Roaring Twenties: A period in history following World War I where society became more liberal and there was an economic boom in America.
Warren G. Harding: The 29th President of the United States who campaigned on this promise of returning to normalcy.
"Return to Normalcy" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (2)
- Who was the U.S. president during most of the 1920s that advocated for a "return to normalcy"?
- Which international event directly challenged President Harding's "return to normalcy" foreign policy?
Resources
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