President Calvin Coolidge: The Roaring 20s' Quiet Leader
Dec 12, 2024
auto_awesome
Amity Shlaes, an author and chair of the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation, discusses the intriguing life of the 30th President, Calvin Coolidge. She highlights his rise to power after Harding's death and his pragmatic approach to leadership. The conversation touches on Coolidge's introverted nature, the economic boom of the Roaring Twenties, and the complexities of his legacy, including his views on race and job creation. Listeners will discover how Coolidge's policies still resonate in today's political climate.
Calvin Coolidge's presidency during the Roaring Twenties showcased a commitment to small government and economic growth, emphasizing deregulation and reduced taxes as catalysts for prosperity.
Despite being perceived as reserved, Coolidge's decisive actions on public safety, notably during the Boston police strike, highlighted his prioritization of governmental authority over labor unions.
Deep dives
Macy's Transformation and Thanksgiving Parade
In 1924, Macy's Department Store underwent significant renovations, becoming the largest store in the world with over 1.5 million square feet of retail space and 148 departments. This expansion allowed Macy's to offer a wide range of products, from household items to luxury goods, catering to the growing consumer demand of the Roaring Twenties. To celebrate its transformation and usher in the holiday season, Macy's hosted its inaugural Thanksgiving Day parade, featuring Santa Claus. The event symbolized not only the store's prominence but also the era's spirit of consumerism and prosperity.
Calvin Coolidge's Presidency
Calvin Coolidge assumed the presidency unexpectedly after the sudden death of President Harding in 1923. Sworn in by his father in a remote Vermont setting, Coolidge vowed to continue Harding's agenda, focusing on principles of normalcy and a small government. Under his leadership, the country experienced prosperity driven by economic growth and reduced taxes, contributing to the cultural and social dynamism of the 1920s. Despite being viewed by some as silent and reserved, Coolidge's disciplined approach and commitment to his promises proved impactful during a pivotal time in American history.
Labor and Business Policies
Calvin Coolidge's administration was marked by his stance against public sector unions, notably during the Boston police strike of 1919, where he prioritized public safety over union demands. He gained national recognition for his decisive actions in endorsing the dismissal of striking police officers, emphasizing that there is no right to strike against public safety. Coolidge's approach to labor and business was later characterized by his policies that aimed to create a favorable environment for growth rather than favoring specific enterprises. This focus on deregulation and reduced interference in the economy reflected his belief that a prosperous economy would benefit all citizens.
Legacy and Reflection
Calvin Coolidge's legacy is complex, with historians debating his influence on the economic prosperity of the 1920s and the subsequent Great Depression. He is often credited with facilitating a period of growth characterized by innovations like electricity in homes and increased productivity. However, some critics argue that his policies contributed to the economic crash of 1929 and the decade-long depression that followed. Ultimately, Coolidge's modesty and commitment to principles of governance continue to attract interest and analysis, reflecting a model of leadership that contrasts sharply with today's political climate.
Sworn in after the death of President Harding by the light of a kerosene lamp, the 30th President of the United States led the country through 6 years of the prosperous roaring 1920s.
Coolidge polled more than 54% of the popular vote in 1924, so what was so good about 'silent Cal'? To find out, Don is joined by Amity Shlaes, author of 'Coolidge' and 'The Forgotten Man: A New History of the Great Depression'.
Produced by Sophie Gee. Edited by Aidan Lonergan. Senior Producer was Charlotte Long.
Sign up to History Hit for hundreds of hours of original documentaries, with a new release every week and ad-free podcasts. Sign up at https://www.historyhit.com/subscribe.