Politics in the 1920s was characterized by skepticism of government, isolationism regarding European affairs, and social conservatism. Warren G. Harding held various occupations before entering politics, including teacher and lawyer. As a politician, he was seen as inconsistent and had trouble with prohibition. Despite personal scandals, Harding was elected president in 1920 partly because he was likable and seemed stable compared to other candidates.

1. Politics in the Roaring „20s

2.  Skeptical

Worried what government would get “us” into
 Isolationist

Did not want to be part of European affairs
 Conservative


Wanted things to be stable
Conservative serge vs. Progressive backlash

3. 
Many occupations early in life
Teacher, insurance salesman, lawyer (none of which
he liked)
 Did like the town of Marion, Ohio



Enjoyed playing in the town band, roller skating (a new
craze at the time) and playing poker (while drinking)
Newspapers

Was part owner and editor of the Marion Star
Suffered from a series of nervous breakdowns
and visited the Battle Creek Sanitarium in
Michigan
 Was married to Florence Kling in 1891 (without
her father‟s permission – he hated Harding)


Allegedly had a fifteen year affair with his friend‟s
wife

4. 
In 1914 won the election for the Senate
Was considered a “flip-flopper”
 Had trouble with the battle over prohibition



Was the Dark Horse candidate in 1920


Liked to Drink, but also wanted to get elected
“Their ain‟t any first-raters this year.” – Frank
Brandegee on the candidates for President in 1920
Harding won the presidency despite:
reports of blackmail from former lovers
 heavy drinking in a time of prohibition
 a past of nervous breakdowns and times spent in the
asylum


5.  What
was likeable about Harding?
 What was the “Teapot Dome Scandal?”
 What is your view of the statement by the
historian who said, “He (Harding) got along
with the Senate, he was good with the
budget, and I would ask, what more do you
want?”

6.  Governor

“There is no right to strike against the public
safety by anybody, anywhere, anytime.”
 Man

of few words
Sort of
 Questions

of Massachusetts
for the film:
What is meant by the phrase, “A man who builds
a factory builds a temple. A man who works
there, worships there.”