American History Hit: President Calvin Coolidge: The Roaring 20s' Quiet Leader

Episode Release Date: December 12, 2024
Host: Don Weilman
Guest: Amity Schlaes, Chair of the Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation and Author

1. Introduction to Calvin Coolidge's Presidency

In this episode of American History Hit, host Don Weilman delves into the life and legacy of the 30th President of the United States, Calvin Coolidge. Guided by insights from historian Amity Schlaes, the discussion explores Coolidge's role during the prosperous yet tumultuous Roaring Twenties, his leadership style, and the policies that shaped his administration.

2. Ascension to the Presidency

Calvin Coolidge unexpectedly became president on August 2, 1923, following the sudden death of President Warren G. Harding. At the moment of Harding's passing, Coolidge was sleeping in his home in Plymouth Notch, Vermont. As Amity Schlaes recounts, “Vice President Coolidge was sworn in in the middle of the night, right there in Plymouth Notch, with the Bible on the table without electricity” (04:43).

True to his reputation for pragmatism, Coolidge famously “went right back to bed” after his swearing-in ceremony (05:32). The following morning, he affirmed his capability to lead, stating, “I think I can swing it” (05:50), signaling his readiness to carry forward Harding’s legacy.

3. Leadership Style and Policies

Coolidge's presidency was marked by a commitment to “normalcy,” a term he inherited from Harding, which emphasized stability, limited government intervention, and pro-business policies. Schlaes explains, “Normalcy is not about being a cog but establishing a stable environment for enterprise and economic growth” (07:58). Coolidge’s administration focused on lowering taxes, reducing government spending, and fostering an environment conducive to business innovation and expansion.

4. The Boston Police Strike

A pivotal moment in Coolidge's political career was his handling of the Boston Police Strike in 1919, which cemented his reputation as a staunch defender of law and order. Schlaes details, “There’s no right to strike against public safety by anybody, anywhere, any time” (17:22). Coolidge’s decisive action to fire striking police officers demonstrated his belief in maintaining public services' integrity, despite personal political costs.

5. Economic Policies and the Roaring Twenties

Under Coolidge, the 1920s experienced significant economic growth, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties. Schlaes attributes this prosperity to the administration's pro-business stance: “Taxes were very high following World War I, and the federal debt was staggering. Coolidge and Harding aimed to create a friendlier environment for business, believing that a strong economy would naturally support all Americans” (09:22). Innovations such as the widespread adoption of electricity, indoor plumbing, and the automobile transformed American life, fostering a consumer-driven economy.

6. Personal Life and Tragedy

The episode also touches on the personal challenges Coolidge faced, notably the untimely death of his son, Calvin Coolidge Jr., in 1924. Schlaes shares, “Calvin Jr. died unexpectedly from a septic blister while playing tennis, which devastated the Coolidge family and garnered national sympathy” (27:55). This tragedy occurred during an election year, uniting the nation in mourning and highlighting the human side of the presidential figure.

7. International Relations

Coolidge's approach to international affairs was characterized by American isolationism, reflecting the broader national sentiment to retreat from post-World War I entanglements. Schlaes notes, “Coolidge supported some international treaties like the Kellogg-Briand Pact, which aimed to outlaw war, believing it did not compromise U.S. sovereignty” (25:45). Nonetheless, his administration maintained a focus on domestic prosperity over international commitments.

8. Impact on the Great Depression

A significant part of the discussion addresses Coolidge’s economic policies and their connection to the subsequent Great Depression. Schlaes argues, “Economic historians are divided, but many believe Coolidge’s laissez-faire approach set the stage for the market vulnerabilities that led to the Great Depression” (43:50). However, she also highlights that the Depression was a multifaceted crisis influenced by various factors beyond Coolidge’s administration.

9. Decision Not to Run Again

In 1928, Coolidge surprised many by choosing not to seek re-election, adhering to a personal principle of limited time in office. Schlaes suggests, “He believed in restraint and the importance of leadership turnover for the country’s well-being, reflecting George Washington’s precedent of stepping down after two terms” (41:38). This decision underscored his humility and dedication to constitutional norms over personal ambition.

10. Legacy and Historical Perspective

Amity Schlaes concludes by reflecting on Coolidge’s enduring legacy. She emphasizes his modesty, integrity, and focus on policy over personality: “Coolidge was a lovely man who never said a nasty thing in public. His restrained approach to governance is something so rare in today’s politics” (51:11). Schlaes advocates for a re-evaluation of Coolidge’s contributions, encouraging a more nuanced understanding of his presidency beyond common critiques.

Notable Quotes:

• Coolidge on Assuming Office: “I think I can swing it.” (05:50)
• Handling the Boston Police Strike: “There’s no right to strike against public safety by anybody, anywhere, any time.” (17:22)
• On Normalcy: “Establish a relatively stable environment for enterprise and economic growth.” (07:58)
• On Leadership Turnover: “The country does better when we change up leadership from time to time.” (41:38)
• On Modesty in Politics: “Coolidge was a lovely man who never said a nasty thing in public.” (51:11)

Conclusion

This episode provides a comprehensive examination of Calvin Coolidge’s presidency, highlighting his effective leadership during a period of economic prosperity, his principled stance on public order, and his lasting impact on American political culture. Through the expertise of Amity Schlaes, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for Coolidge’s nuanced legacy and his role as a quiet yet influential leader of the Roaring Twenties.

Transcript Reference:

For detailed timestamps and full transcript access, refer to the original podcast episode provided by History Hit.