Literature: The Gilded Age by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner

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What does the term 'The Gilded Age' represent?

A period of excess and self-indulgence from the 1870s to the 1890s (correct)

A time of great political reform and progress

A period of economic depression in the late 19th century

A period of rapid industrial growth

What did Twain's characters find about getting rich quick in 'The Gilded Age'?

It required hard work and dedication

It was impossible due to corrupt political core

It was more difficult than they had thought (correct)

It was relatively easy with smart investments

What does Mark Twain mock in his satirical novel 'The Gilded Age'?

The innocence and naivety of Philip Sterling

The rapid industrial growth in American society

Greed and self-indulgence of his characters (correct)

The efficiency of the government in the late 19th century

What did the glittering exterior of the age hide according to 'The Gilded Age'?

A corrupt political core and a growing gap between the rich and the poor Signup and view all the answers

What did cities experience in the late 19th century according to the text?

Rapid growth under inefficient government Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a political boss in the context of the political machine?

Controlling access to municipal jobs and business licenses, and influencing the courts and other municipal agencies Signup and view all the answers

What was the hope of young men like Philip Sterling in American society according to the passage?

To find the golden road to fortune by some sudden turn of good luck Signup and view all the answers

What was the pyramid-like organizational structure of the political machine based on?

Local precinct workers and captains reporting to a ward boss, who in turn reported to the city boss Signup and view all the answers

How did ward bosses gain the votes of the poor?

By providing favors or services to the poor Signup and view all the answers

What motivated city bosses to solve urban problems?

Reinforcing voters’ loyalty and extending their influence Signup and view all the answers

What services could political bosses provide for new businesses?

Government support in exchange for substantial payments Signup and view all the answers

What was the basis of control for political machines in major cities?

Services provided to voters and businesses in exchange for political or financial support Signup and view all the answers

What motivated many precinct captains and political bosses to enter politics at an early age?

Understanding the challenges faced by immigrants and being able to provide solutions Signup and view all the answers

How did the city boss control the activities of the political party throughout the city?

By coordinating with precinct captains and ward bosses Signup and view all the answers

'There’s got to be in every ward somebody that any bloke can come to. and get help.' This statement is attributed to:

Martin Lomasney, elected ward boss of Boston’s West End in 1885 Signup and view all the answers

What was the main incentive for many political bosses to provide government support for new businesses?

They were often paid extremely well for this service. Signup and view all the answers

Literature: The Gilded Age by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner

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