Difficulty: Medium

Average Score: 52%

Which of the following best describes an influence of the philosophy of pragmatism on government in the early 1900s?

Rationale

To advocate for the recognition of the political and civil rights of African Americans.

W. E. B. Du Bois founded the Niagara Movement in 1905 to promote the civil and political rights of African Americans, emphasizing the need for immediate and unequivocal equality rather than gradual economic improvement. This movement aimed to challenge the prevailing attitudes of racial discrimination and demand full rights for African Americans.

A (Public administrators sought to implement verifiable solutions to social problems.) CORRECT

This choice reflects a historical idea of creating a separate colony for African Americans, similar to Liberia, but it does not accurately represent the goals of the Niagara Movement. Du Bois and his contemporaries focused on fighting for rights within the United States rather than emigration to Africa.

B (Presidents deployed United States military force abroad as a means of diplomacy.) YOUR ANSWER

While military service was a topic of discussion during Du Bois's time, the primary focus of the Niagara Movement was civil rights and political advocacy rather than military enlistment. This option mischaracterizes the movement's objectives.

C (Presidential candidates sought to form bipartisan tickets to gain support for government reforms.) YOUR ANSWER

This option addresses an important issue faced by African Americans, but the Niagara Movement was not specifically focused on tenant farming or economic issues. Its primary aim was broader, seeking civil and political rights for all African Americans.

E (Congressional legislators rejected intervention in the economy in favor of open competition between social groups.) YOUR ANSWER

Du Bois was critical of Washington's more conciliatory approach to racial issues, which emphasized vocational training and economic advancement over civil rights. The Niagara Movement sought to challenge and oppose Washington’s strategies, advocating instead for immediate civil rights.

Conclusion

The Niagara Movement, initiated by W. E. B. Du Bois, was fundamentally about advocating for the civil and political rights of African Americans. While economic issues and other concerns were certainly relevant to the African American experience, the movement's core mission was to demand equality and challenge systemic racism, setting the stage for future civil rights advancements.

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