What does "Return to Normalcy" refer to in U.S. history?

"Return to Normalcy" is a term closely associated with the political climate in the United States following World War I, most notably used by President Warren G. Harding during his campaign in 1920. This phrase encapsulates the desire among many Americans to revert to the way of life that existed before the upheavals of the war, which included social changes, economic adjustments, and a heightened sense of global involvement. The public longed for the stability and familiar routine of pre-war America, which they believed had been disrupted by the war and the social changes that followed it, including the 1918 influenza pandemic and the push for women’s suffrage.

The other options do not accurately represent the essence of "Return to Normalcy." A shift towards increased immigration does not embody the yearning for a previous lifestyle but rather indicates a change in demographics and policy. A movement for economic reform focuses on addressing current financial issues rather than recapturing a previous normal state. Similarly, a campaign for civil rights highlights ongoing struggles for equality and recognition, which contrasts sharply with a desire to return to a prior state of being. Recognizing these distinctions helps clarify the significance of the concept within its historical context.