Origins of the New South by C. Vann Woodward
- 1. In 'Origins of the New South,' renowned historian C. Vann Woodward meticulously examines the transformative period in the American South from the end of the Civil War to the early 20th century, a time characterized by significant social, economic, and political changes. Woodward delves into the aftermath of Reconstruction, analyzing how the South grappled with its identity and sought to redefine itself in the wake of defeat and societal upheaval. Through a compelling narrative, he explores the rise of the New South ideology, championed by figures like Henry Grady, which called for modernization and industrialization as a means to revitalize the Southern economy and society. The book addresses the complex interplay between tradition and progress, highlighting the region's struggle to reconcile its agrarian past with the burgeoning industrial future. Woodward also critically evaluates the racial dynamics that persisted throughout this transformation, illustrating how the legacy of slavery and the tensions of race relations continued to influence Southern society. With rich analysis and a sweeping scope, Woodward's work remains a foundational text for understanding the historical context and evolution of the modern South.
In 'Origins of the New South', what does C. Vann Woodward argue was the primary economic transformation in the post-Reconstruction South?
A) The dominance of a merchant-based economy
B) A return to subsistence farming
C) The strengthening of the plantation system
D) The rise of industrial capitalism
- 2. How does Woodward characterize the relationship between the New South's leaders and the North?
A) They sought economic partnership and investment.
B) They wanted to rejoin the Union on their original terms.
C) They aimed to form a new political alliance against the West.
D) They remained hostile and economically independent.
- 3. What was a central paradox of the New South Creed, as presented by Woodward?
A) It promoted progress while preserving racial hierarchy.
B) It sought foreign aid but rejected immigrants.
C) It praised the Old South but rejected its leaders.
D) It advocated for industry but rejected new technology.
- 4. According to Woodward, what was the ultimate fate of the Populist movement in the South?
A) It evolved into the Progressive Movement.
B) It was defeated and its members absorbed by the Democratic Party.
C) It successfully took over several state governments.
D) It merged with the Republican Party to form a new coalition.
- 5. What was a significant consequence of the crop-lien system described in the book?
A) It trapped poor farmers, both Black and white, in cycles of debt.
B) It was abolished by the Redeemer governments.
C) It allowed farmers to easily gain ownership of their land.
D) It made cotton farming incredibly profitable for sharecroppers.
- 6. How does Woodward view the continuity between the Old South and the New South?
A) He emphasizes a break more than a continuity.
B) He sees complete and total continuity.
C) He focuses only on cultural continuity.
D) He argues there was no change at all.
- 7. In Woodward's view, the New South's economic development was ultimately...
A) Superior to the industrial North's.
B) A total and unqualified success.
C) Focused on international exports over domestic trade.
D) Limited and dependent on Northern capital.
- 8. What was the 'Atlanta Compromise,' and how does Woodward contextualize it?
A) An agreement to move the state capital from Milledgeville to Atlanta.
B) A speech by Booker T. Washington accepting segregation, reflecting the narrowing options for Black advancement.
C) A deal between industrialists and planters to divide political power.
D) A treaty between the state of Georgia and the federal government.
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