20th Century

Definition

The 20th Century refers to the period from January 1, 1901, to December 31, 2000, marked by significant political, social, and economic changes across the globe. This era was characterized by two world wars, the rise and fall of empires, civil rights movements, and the emergence of new ideologies that shaped government policies and structures, influencing interpretations of federalism and governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 20th Century saw the expansion of federal power, particularly during the New Deal era in response to the Great Depression, which reshaped the relationship between the federal government and the states.
2. Discretionary authority became more pronounced as federal agencies were empowered to create rules and regulations to implement complex policies born from new challenges in society.
3. The civil rights movement of the 1960s led to significant changes in policy-making, prompting both federal intervention and state responses that tested the limits of federalism.
4. The Cold War fostered a climate of ideological conflict that influenced U.S. policy-making decisions, resulting in actions that often prioritized national security over civil liberties.
5. Late in the century, a wave of deregulation challenged previous models of governance, reflecting shifts in ideology toward limited government intervention in economic affairs.

Review Questions

• How did events in the 20th Century shape interpretations of federalism in the United States?
  • Events such as the Great Depression and World War II prompted significant federal interventions that expanded the government's role in economic and social welfare. The New Deal programs redefined federalism by establishing a precedent for increased federal authority over states to address national crises. This shift set a lasting trend where the balance of power between state and federal governments continuously evolved, particularly as new challenges emerged throughout the century.
• In what ways did discretionary authority expand during the 20th Century, and what impact did this have on rule-making by federal agencies?
  • Discretionary authority expanded significantly during the 20th Century as federal agencies gained more power to create rules and regulations to address complex societal issues. This shift was particularly evident during times like the New Deal and later in response to environmental concerns and civil rights. The growth of the administrative state allowed these agencies to make decisions that shaped policy implementation without direct legislative oversight, raising questions about accountability and transparency.
• Evaluate how ideological shifts in the 20th Century influenced policy-making processes in American government.
  • Ideological shifts throughout the 20th Century profoundly impacted policy-making processes, with movements like Progressivism advocating for greater government involvement in social issues. The clash between liberal ideals seeking reform and conservative principles promoting limited government created a dynamic tension that influenced legislation on civil rights, economic policies, and foreign relations. By analyzing these shifts, one can see how they not only shaped specific policies but also redefined the role of government itself in American society.

Related terms

Federalism:

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, allowing for a balance of power and representation.

Administrative State: A term used to describe the expanding role of government agencies in rule-making and enforcement, reflecting the growing complexity of modern governance.

Progressivism:

A political ideology advocating for social reform, greater government involvement in the economy, and policies that promote social justice and equality.