Aristogenic refers to the notion of a cognitive elite, a genetic leadership class with inborn intelligence (202). Isenberg explains that the upper classes in the early 20th century considered themselves a superior breed.

Derived from the Spanish for American Indian chieftain (44), caciques were to be the hereditary nobility of the original Carolina colony, per John Locke. Isenberg highlights the attempt to impose order on the colony and replicate the class structure of England (45).

Carpetbaggers were those Northerners who traveled to the South in the aftermath of the Civil War to take advantage of its weakened condition. Southern elites encouraged hatred of Yankee invaders (182) in an effort to retain the class hierarchy.