16 Questions
What does the term 'The Gilded Age' represent?
A period of excess and self-indulgence from the 1870s to the 1890s
What did Twain's characters find about getting rich quick in 'The Gilded Age'?
It was more difficult than they had thought
What does Mark Twain mock in his satirical novel 'The Gilded Age'?
Greed and self-indulgence of his characters
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
What did cities experience in the late 19th century according to the text?
Rapid growth under inefficient government
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
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
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
How did ward bosses gain the votes of the poor?
By providing favors or services to the poor
What motivated city bosses to solve urban problems?
Reinforcing voters’ loyalty and extending their influence
What services could political bosses provide for new businesses?
Government support in exchange for substantial payments
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
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
How did the city boss control the activities of the political party throughout the city?
By coordinating with precinct captains and ward bosses
'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
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.
Test your knowledge of Mark Twain's satirical novel, The Gilded Age, and its portrayal of the excesses and greed of late 19th-century American society through characters like Philip Sterling. Explore the themes and critiques presented in this collaborative work.
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