21H.102: The Emergence of Modern America, 1865 to the Present
Study Questions for Week of Sept. 19 (The Rise of the City)
Riordan, Plunkitt of Tammany Hall

1. Why is Riordan writing this book? To whom is he trying to justify machine politics?

2. What are the perceived threats posed by urban bosses?

3. How does Plunkitt answer those threats?

4. How does he distinguish between honest and dishonest graft?

5. Do the machines adequately address the needs of the urban residents?

6. What works and what doesn't work in a political machine?

7. What are alternatives to this type of community institution?

8. How does Tammany Hall actually operate?

9. What are the problems with machine politics?

10. What would be better solutions to urban problems?