What was the name of the 1873 legislation that embraced the gold standard and demonetized silver?

Study for the AMSCO AP United States History Exam covering Period 6. Prepare with multiple-choice questions, hints, and explanations. Get ready for your APUSH exam!

The 1873 legislation that embraced the gold standard and effectively demonetized silver is known as the "Crime of 1873." This legislation ended the use of silver as legal tender, which had significant economic implications and contributed to the debate over currency in the United States.

The term "Crime" was utilized by opponents who felt that the move to a gold standard unfairly favored wealthy industrial interests at the expense of farmers and laborers who depended on a more flexible monetary system that included silver. This controversy highlighted the broader tensions in the U.S. economy during the late 19th century, particularly the struggles between different economic interests and the impact of monetary policy on various segments of society.

The other choices reflect different monetary policies or legislation but do not pertain specifically to the 1873 demonetization of silver. The National Currency Act established a system for national banks but did not address the gold standard directly. The Silver Act could imply legislation related to silver, while the Monetary Restoration Act is not a recognized piece of legislation associated with the gold standard or the demonetization of silver.

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