A Level History - America - Practice Exam

What was the primary consequence of the Teapot Dome scandal for Secretary of the Interior Albert Bacon Fall?

1. He was hailed as a hero for his policies

2. He became the first cabinet member to go to prison

3. He was promoted to a higher government position

4. He successfully negotiated oil pricing with companies

The correct answer is: He became the first cabinet member to go to prison

The primary consequence of the Teapot Dome scandal for Secretary of the Interior Albert Bacon Fall was that he became the first cabinet member to go to prison. This scandal involved the secret leasing of federal oil reserves at Teapot Dome in Wyoming and Elk Hills in California without competitive bidding, which Fall facilitated in exchange for kickbacks from oil companies. The exposure of these corrupt practices led to a significant loss of public trust in the government and its officials. Fall was subsequently charged with bribery and conspiracy, making history with his imprisonment following a conviction. This marked a pivotal moment in American political history, highlighting the need for greater ethics and oversight in government dealings. The other options do not align with the historical context; for instance, Fall was not celebrated for his policies, nor did he receive a promotion after such a scandal. Additionally, although negotiations regarding oil pricing were part of broader discussions in the industry, Fall's legacy is fundamentally tied to the scandal and its legal ramifications.