The phrase, central to the 1920 United States presidential election, encapsulated a desire for a simpler time. It represented a rejection of the interventionist policies and perceived upheavals associated with the Progressive Era and World War I. Voters, weary of wartime sacrifices and social reforms, sought a period of stability and traditional values. The victorious candidate effectively capitalized on this sentiment, promising an end to wartime regulations, a reduction in government involvement in the economy, and a renewed focus on domestic affairs.
This concept’s significance lies in its reflection of the American public’s post-war mood. It underscored a longing for social and political tranquility. The promise resonated with many Americans who felt alienated by the rapid changes of the previous decades. Its appeal helped shape the political landscape of the 1920s, influencing economic policies favoring business interests, a resurgence of nativism, and a general conservative trend in American society. The outcome of the election demonstrates the power of appealing to national sentiment during times of uncertainty and transition.
