Teapot Dome Scandal

Definition

A major political scandal in the 1920s where Albert B. Fall, Secretary of Interior under President Harding, leased Navy petroleum reserves at Teapot Dome (Wyoming) and two other locations to private oil companies at low rates without competitive bidding.

Analogy

Imagine if your teacher gave out grades not based on performance but instead secretly sold them to whoever offered him/her candy bars or snacks. That's kind of what happened with Teapot Dome Scandal - government resources were given away for personal gain rather than public benefit.

Related terms

Albert B. Fall: U.S Secretary of Interior under President Harding who was found guilty for bribery in connection with the Teapot Dome Scandal.

Corruption: Dishonest conduct by those in power which often involves bribery or fraud.

Harding Administration: The presidential term (1921-1923) during which the Teapot Dome Scandal occurred.