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Study Guide: Thomas Taggart: Indiana Political Figure and Hotelier

Cheat Sheet:
Thomas Taggart: Indiana Political Figure and Hotelier Study Guide

Early Life and Indianapolis Public Service

Thomas Taggart was born in Ireland and immigrated to the United States as a young child.

Answer: True

Explanation: Thomas Taggart was born in County Monaghan, Ireland, and immigrated to the United States with his family in 1861 at the age of five.

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Taggart's early career in Indianapolis involved managing a restaurant at the Union Depot for the N. and G. Ohmer Company.

Answer: True

Explanation: Upon arriving in Indianapolis, Taggart began working for the N. and G. Ohmer Company at their dining hall/restaurant located within the Union Depot, eventually becoming its manager.

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Before national roles, Taggart served as Mayor of Indianapolis for three two-year terms.

Answer: True

Explanation: Prior to his national political involvement, Thomas Taggart served as the Mayor of Indianapolis for three consecutive two-year terms, from 1895 to 1901.

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As Mayor, Taggart was responsible for establishing Indianapolis's park and boulevard system by acquiring over 900 acres along the White River.

Answer: True

Explanation: During his mayoral tenure, Taggart oversaw the acquisition of more than 900 acres along the White River, which formed the foundation for Indianapolis's park and boulevard system.

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Indianapolis acquired over 900 acres under Mayor Taggart for its park system.

Answer: True

Explanation: During his mayoral administration, Taggart was instrumental in the acquisition of more than 900 acres along the White River, which became the basis for Indianapolis's park and boulevard system.

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Taggart's primary business focus before politics was managing the restaurant at the Union Depot for the N. and G. Ohmer Company.

Answer: True

Explanation: Before his extensive political career, Taggart's primary business focus involved managing the restaurant at the Union Depot for the N. and G. Ohmer Company.

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Taggart's legacy includes contributions to the development of Indianapolis's park system.

Answer: True

Explanation: A significant aspect of Taggart's legacy involves his contributions to urban development, particularly the establishment of Indianapolis's park and boulevard system.

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Who was Thomas Taggart and what was his primary role in Indiana politics?

Answer: A Democratic politician who served as the political boss of Indiana.

Explanation: Thomas Taggart was a prominent Democratic politician who wielded considerable influence, effectively serving as the political boss of Indiana for a significant period in the early 20th century.

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When and from where did Thomas Taggart immigrate to the United States?

Answer: 1861, from Ireland

Explanation: Thomas Taggart immigrated to the United States from Ireland in 1861, at the age of five.

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What was Taggart's initial career step upon arriving in Indianapolis in 1877?

Answer: He started working as a clerk for the Ohmer company's dining hall.

Explanation: Upon his arrival in Indianapolis in 1877, Taggart's first professional role was as a clerk for the N. and G. Ohmer Company's dining hall located at the Union Depot.

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What significant civic improvement did Taggart oversee as Mayor of Indianapolis?

Answer: The establishment of the city's park and boulevard system.

Explanation: A key achievement during Taggart's mayoralty was the establishment of Indianapolis's park and boulevard system, facilitated by the acquisition of substantial acreage along the White River.

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Thomas Taggart's early career involved managing a restaurant at the Union Depot for the N. and G. Ohmer Company.

Answer: True

Explanation: Thomas Taggart's initial professional engagement in Indianapolis was managing the restaurant at the Union Depot, operated by the N. and G. Ohmer Company.

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Which of the following was NOT a role held by Thomas Taggart?

Answer: Governor of Indiana

Explanation: Thomas Taggart served as Auditor of Marion County, Mayor of Indianapolis, and Chairman of the Democratic National Committee, but he did not hold the office of Governor of Indiana.

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Taggart's legacy includes contributions to public improvements, notably the development of Indianapolis's park and boulevard system.

Answer: True

Explanation: A significant part of Thomas Taggart's legacy involves his contributions to public works, particularly the establishment and development of Indianapolis's park and boulevard system.

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Hospitality and Business Development

Thomas Taggart acquired and developed the French Lick Springs Hotel in 1901, transforming it into a successful spa and gambling resort.

Answer: True

Explanation: In 1901, Taggart organized investors to acquire the French Lick Springs Hotel, subsequently transforming it into a renowned spa and resort.

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Taggart significantly improved the French Lick Springs Hotel by adding a new seven-story wing and securing direct passenger service from Chicago via the Monon Railroad.

Answer: True

Explanation: Taggart enhanced the French Lick Springs Hotel with a new seven-story wing and facilitated direct passenger service from Chicago by arranging for the Monon Railroad to lay a spur track.

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The Monon Railroad extended service to the French Lick Springs Hotel due to Taggart's efforts.

Answer: True

Explanation: Taggart's influence and efforts were instrumental in persuading the Monon Railroad to establish a spur line to the French Lick Springs Hotel, thereby improving its accessibility.

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The French Lick Springs Hotel, under Taggart's management, generated over $2 million in annual profits during its peak.

Answer: True

Explanation: During its most prosperous periods under Taggart's stewardship, the French Lick Springs Hotel achieved annual profits exceeding $2 million.

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The hotel Thomas Taggart developed in Orange County, Indiana, was known as the French Lick Springs Hotel.

Answer: True

Explanation: The significant hotel development undertaken by Thomas Taggart in Orange County, Indiana, was the French Lick Springs Hotel.

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Taggart persuaded the Monon Railroad to extend service to the French Lick Springs Hotel.

Answer: True

Explanation: Taggart's influence led the Monon Railroad to establish a spur track to the French Lick Springs Hotel, thereby improving its accessibility for guests.

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In what year did Thomas Taggart organize investors to acquire the French Lick Springs Hotel?

Answer: 1901

Explanation: Thomas Taggart spearheaded an investment group that acquired the French Lick Springs Hotel in 1901.

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Which railroad company laid a spur track to the French Lick Springs Hotel due to Taggart's efforts?

Answer: Monon Railroad

Explanation: The Monon Railroad was persuaded by Taggart's efforts to construct a spur track leading directly to the French Lick Springs Hotel.

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What was the approximate annual profit generated by the French Lick Springs Hotel at its peak under Taggart's ownership?

Answer: Over 2 million

Explanation: During its most successful periods under Taggart's management, the French Lick Springs Hotel achieved annual profits exceeding $2 million.

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What was the approximate value of the French Lick Springs Hotel property when inherited by Taggart's son, Thomas Douglas?

Answer: Nearly 2 million

Explanation: Upon Thomas Taggart's death, his son Thomas Douglas inherited the French Lick Springs Hotel property, which was valued at approximately $2 million.

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What was Taggart's primary business focus before becoming a prominent politician?

Answer: Hotelier and financier

Explanation: Prior to his prominent political career, Thomas Taggart primarily focused on business ventures as a hotelier and financier.

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National Political Leadership and Campaigns

Taggart served as Chairman of the Democratic National Committee from 1904 to 1908.

Answer: True

Explanation: Thomas Taggart held the position of Chairman of the Democratic National Committee for four years, from 1904 to 1908.

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Taggart played a role in Grover Cleveland's presidential campaigns, helping him win Indiana in 1888 and 1892.

Answer: True

Explanation: Taggart's efforts as chairman were instrumental in Grover Cleveland winning Indiana in both the 1888 and 1892 presidential elections.

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Thomas Taggart was instrumental in securing the nominations of Woodrow Wilson and Thomas R. Marshall at the 1912 Democratic National Convention.

Answer: True

Explanation: Taggart played a significant role in the 1912 Democratic National Convention, contributing to the nominations of Woodrow Wilson for President and Thomas R. Marshall for Vice President.

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Thomas Taggart was a member of the Republican Party throughout his political career.

Answer: False

Explanation: Thomas Taggart was a lifelong member of the Democratic Party.

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Thomas Taggart served as Chairman of the Democratic National Committee from 1904 to 1908.

Answer: True

Explanation: Thomas Taggart held the position of Chairman of the Democratic National Committee for four years, from 1904 to 1908.

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Taggart supported James M. Cox's presidential campaign in 1920, but both men were unsuccessful.

Answer: True

Explanation: In the 1920 election cycle, Thomas Taggart backed James M. Cox's presidential bid; however, both Cox and Taggart's own senatorial aspirations proved unsuccessful.

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Taggart's efforts as state chairman in 1892 were crucial for Grover Cleveland winning Indiana against Benjamin Harrison.

Answer: True

Explanation: As the Democratic state chairman in 1892, Taggart's campaign efforts were vital in securing Indiana's electoral votes for Grover Cleveland, impacting the national election against incumbent Benjamin Harrison.

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Benjamin Harrison, whom Taggart opposed, was a member of the Republican Party.

Answer: True

Explanation: Benjamin Harrison, the political opponent against whom Taggart campaigned in Indiana, was indeed a prominent member of the Republican Party.

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For how many years did Thomas Taggart serve as Chairman of the Democratic National Committee?

Answer: 4 years (1904-1908)

Explanation: Thomas Taggart served as the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee for a period of four years, from 1904 to 1908.

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Taggart's role in Grover Cleveland's 1892 presidential campaign was particularly significant because:

Answer: He helped Cleveland win Indiana, impacting the national election.

Explanation: Taggart's leadership as state chairman was crucial in ensuring Grover Cleveland carried Indiana in 1892, a victory that significantly influenced the national outcome of the presidential election.

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Thomas Taggart was a member of which political party?

Answer: Democratic

Explanation: Thomas Taggart was a dedicated member of the Democratic Party throughout his political career.

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Taggart's involvement in the 1912 Democratic National Convention was crucial for securing the nominations of:

Answer: Woodrow Wilson and Thomas R. Marshall.

Explanation: Thomas Taggart played a pivotal role at the 1912 Democratic National Convention, significantly contributing to the nominations of Woodrow Wilson for President and Thomas R. Marshall for Vice President.

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In the 1924 Indiana gubernatorial election, Taggart endorsed Carleton B. McCulloch, who lost the election to Edward L. Jackson.

Answer: True

Explanation: During the 1924 Indiana gubernatorial election, Taggart supported Carleton B. McCulloch, who ultimately lost the race to Edward L. Jackson.

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Taggart was instrumental in securing the nomination of Woodrow Wilson for President at which convention?

Answer: 1912 Democratic National Convention

Explanation: Thomas Taggart played a crucial role in securing Woodrow Wilson's nomination for the presidency at the 1912 Democratic National Convention.

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What was the outcome for Thomas Taggart in the 1920 election cycle?

Answer: He supported James M. Cox for president and lost his bid for a Senate seat.

Explanation: In the 1920 election cycle, Thomas Taggart supported James M. Cox's presidential campaign and also sought a return to the Senate, but both endeavors were unsuccessful.

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U.S. Senate and Electoral History

Thomas Taggart was appointed to the U.S. Senate in March 1916 by Indiana Governor Samuel M. Ralston.

Answer: True

Explanation: Indiana Governor Samuel M. Ralston appointed Thomas Taggart to the U.S. Senate in March 1916.

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Taggart lost the special election for the U.S. Senate seat he held to Republican James E. Watson.

Answer: True

Explanation: Following his appointment to the U.S. Senate, Taggart lost the subsequent special election held in November 1916 to Republican candidate James E. Watson.

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During his brief U.S. Senate tenure, Taggart advocated for the efficient use of federal funds and opposed wasteful spending.

Answer: True

Explanation: While serving in the U.S. Senate, Taggart expressed a commitment to fiscal responsibility, advocating for the efficient use of federal funds and opposing wasteful expenditures.

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The U.S. Senate seat Taggart was appointed to became vacant due to the death of Senator Benjamin F. Shively.

Answer: True

Explanation: The vacancy in the U.S. Senate that led to Taggart's appointment in March 1916 was caused by the death of the incumbent, Senator Benjamin F. Shively.

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Whom did Thomas Taggart succeed when he was appointed to the U.S. Senate?

Answer: Benjamin F. Shively

Explanation: Thomas Taggart was appointed to the U.S. Senate to fill the vacancy created by the death of Senator Benjamin F. Shively.

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What was the outcome of the special election in November 1916 for the U.S. Senate seat Taggart briefly held?

Answer: Taggart lost to Republican James E. Watson.

Explanation: In the special election of November 1916 for the U.S. Senate seat he had briefly occupied, Thomas Taggart was defeated by Republican candidate James E. Watson.

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What was the primary reason for the U.S. Senate seat becoming vacant in March 1916, leading to Taggart's appointment?

Answer: The death of Senator Benjamin F. Shively.

Explanation: The U.S. Senate seat that Thomas Taggart was appointed to in March 1916 became available due to the passing of Senator Benjamin F. Shively.

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What was Taggart's stance on federal spending during his brief tenure in the U.S. Senate?

Answer: He opposed wasteful spending and advocated for efficiency.

Explanation: During his short time in the U.S. Senate, Taggart expressed a preference for fiscal prudence, opposing wasteful spending and advocating for efficient government operations.

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Family, Residences, and Legacy

Thomas Taggart's wife, Eva Bryant Taggart, was also a prominent politician in Indiana.

Answer: False

Explanation: While Thomas Taggart's wife, Eva Bryant Taggart, was part of a prominent political family, the provided information does not indicate she held prominent political office herself.

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The Taggart family's Indianapolis residence, built in 1913, was recognized by *House Beautiful* magazine.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Taggart family's Indianapolis home, constructed in 1913, was indeed recognized by *House Beautiful* magazine in 1920 as one of the city's finest residences.

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Thomas Taggart was commonly nicknamed 'the Easy Boss' due to his congenial nature.

Answer: True

Explanation: Thomas Taggart was widely known by the nickname 'the Easy Boss,' reflecting his amiable demeanor and effective political leadership.

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The Taggart family's summer home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, was named 'Amyvale' in honor of Taggart's Irish birthplace.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Taggart family's summer residence in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, was named 'Amyvale,' a tribute to Taggart's place of birth in Ireland.

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Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. purchased property adjacent to Taggart's Hyannis Port home.

Answer: True

Explanation: Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. acquired property next to the Taggart family's summer home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, which later became part of the Kennedy compound.

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Taggart's daughter, Lucy Martha, was known for her work as an art educator at the John Herron Art Institute.

Answer: True

Explanation: Lucy Martha Taggart, one of Thomas Taggart's daughters, pursued a career in the arts and served as an educator at the John Herron Art Institute.

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Taggart's daughter, Florence Eva, died in a yachting accident in the Gulf of Mexico.

Answer: True

Explanation: Florence Eva, one of Thomas Taggart's daughters, tragically died in a yachting accident in the Gulf of Mexico.

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Taggart's daughter, Lucy Martha, was an accomplished painter who exhibited internationally.

Answer: False

Explanation: While Lucy Martha Taggart was involved in the arts, her recognized role was as an art educator at the John Herron Art Institute, not as an internationally exhibiting painter.

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Which of the following was NOT one of Thomas Taggart's children?

Answer: Eleanor Roosevelt

Explanation: Thomas and Eva Taggart had six children: Florence Eva, Lucy Martha, Nora, Irene Mary, Emily Letitia, and Thomas Douglas. Eleanor Roosevelt was not their daughter.

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What architectural style characterized the exterior of Taggart's Indianapolis home built in 1913?

Answer: Georgian Colonial

Explanation: The exterior of the Taggart residence in Indianapolis, completed in 1913, was designed in the Georgian Colonial architectural style.

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What was Taggart's nickname, reflecting his political style?

Answer: The Easy Boss

Explanation: Thomas Taggart was commonly known as 'the Easy Boss,' a moniker reflecting his amiable yet effective approach to political leadership.

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The Taggart family's summer home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, was named:

Answer: Amyvale

Explanation: The summer residence established by the Taggart family in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, was named 'Amyvale'.

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Who purchased property adjacent to the Taggarts' Hyannis Port home, later establishing the Kennedy compound?

Answer: Joseph P. Kennedy Sr.

Explanation: Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. acquired land next to the Taggart family's Hyannis Port property, which subsequently formed the basis of the renowned Kennedy compound.

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Which of Taggart's daughters was an artist and educator at the John Herron Art Institute?

Answer: Lucy Martha

Explanation: Lucy Martha Taggart, one of Thomas Taggart's daughters, distinguished herself as an artist and an educator at the John Herron Art Institute.

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Which magazine recognized Taggart's Indianapolis home as one of the city's best?

Answer: House Beautiful

Explanation: *House Beautiful* magazine acknowledged the Taggart residence in Indianapolis as one of the city's premier homes in 1920.

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Which of Taggart's daughters died in a yachting accident?

Answer: Florence Eva

Explanation: Florence Eva, one of Thomas Taggart's daughters, tragically died in a yachting accident.

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What was the name of the company where Taggart's son-in-law, David L. Chambers, held a leadership position?

Answer: Bobbs-Merrill Company

Explanation: David L. Chambers, son-in-law to Thomas Taggart, served as president and chairman of the Bobbs-Merrill Company.

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