In: History
During the nineteenth century, one way political bosses gained voter support was by
This option is correct. D) Assisting the former slaves.
The most burning and debatable issue in American society in the nineteenth century was slavery. The political leaders used this issue as a weapon to attract voters in their states. The parties and their political leaders have different stances on the issue of slavery. After the completion of the civil war and the beginning of the reconstruction period, the political leaders tried to win the support of the slaves as they got voting rights. The slaves made a significant voter base, and politicians tried to gain their support for winning elections.
This option is incorrect. A) Campaigning for women's suffrage.
EXPLANATION: The issue of women's suffrage also gained importance, and several liberal politicians fought for this. But as compared to slavery, this was less prominent in society in the nineteenth century.
This option is incorrect B) Pushing for the use of poll taxes.
EXPLANATION: The use of this subject in election campaigning was not as widespread.
This option is incorrect C) Making improvements in the urban infrastructure and helping new immigrants.
EXPLANATION: The political leaders tried to address this issue and gain the immigrants of different states and countries.
Slavery was the most highly contested topic in American society in the nineteenth century. The political leadership tried to polarize the voters on this subject and create a solid voter base.
The answer is D) Assisting the former slaves.