carpetbagger Definition
a person from the northern states who went to the South after the American Civil War to profit from the Reconstruction.
Using carpetbagger: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "carpetbagger" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Many carpetbaggers were accused of exploiting the South's economic and political instability.
Example
The term 'carpetbagger' is often used as a derogatory term for outsiders who come to an area to exploit it.
Example
Some carpetbaggers became involved in politics and held positions of power in Southern governments.
carpetbagger Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for carpetbagger
Phrases with carpetbagger
the period of time during which carpetbaggers held political power in the South during Reconstruction
Example
During the carpetbagger rule, many Southerners felt that their interests were being ignored.
carpetbagger tactics
methods used by carpetbaggers to gain wealth or power in the South during Reconstruction
Example
Carpetbagger tactics included bribery, corruption, and manipulation of the political system.
a mindset characterized by opportunism, greed, and a lack of concern for the welfare of others
Example
Some people accuse modern-day politicians of having a carpetbagger mentality.
Origins of carpetbagger
from the image of travelers arriving with their belongings in large bags made of carpeting material
Summary: carpetbagger in Brief
'Carpetbagger' [kahr-pit-bag-er] refers to a person from the northern states who went to the South after the American Civil War to profit from the Reconstruction. The term is often used derogatorily to describe outsiders who exploit an area. Carpetbaggers were accused of using bribery, corruption, and manipulation of the political system to gain wealth and power. 'Carpetbagger' extends into phrases like 'carpetbagger rule,' denoting the period of time during which carpetbaggers held political power in the South during Reconstruction.
