Question

The major political parties appealed to lingering divisions from the Civil War and contended over tariffs and currency issues, even as reformers argued that economic greed and self-interest had corrupted all levels of government.

Answer 1

The post-Civil War political climate was shaped by disputes over tariffs, currency, and the unresolved issue of slavery, leading to the rise of third parties and reform movements amidst economic challenges, particularly for farmers.

Step-by-step explanation:

The major political parties during the post-Civil War era grappled with the legacies of the conflict as well as issues of economic policy such as tariffs and currency. As America transitioned into the Gilded Age, the country's political system was marked by contentious elections and a Congress deeply entrenched in patronage. The early efforts of prominent leaders like John C. Calhoun, Henry Clay, and Daniel Webster, during the Era of Good Feelings, sought to address the nation's financial and transportation system challenges; however, the unresolved question of slavery remained a toxic element in American politics. This period also saw an emerging awareness among the public of economic challenges, particularly for farmers who experienced falling agricultural prices and increasing debt. The formation of third-party movements and national debates on important political issues reflected the evolving landscape of American political and economic life.