U.S. Gilded Age Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What was one of the major factors that contributed to the explosive economic growth during the Gilded Age?

  • Abundant natural resources and a growing labor supply. (correct)
  • The expansion of the agricultural sector and farming techniques.
  • The government's active intervention and subsidies.
  • Decreasing tariffs to promote free trade and foreign investment.
  • What is the name of the region that was the heartland of the Second Industrial Revolution in the U.S.?

  • The South.
  • The West Coast.
  • The North East.
  • The Heartland (Great Lakes region). (correct)
  • Which of the following is NOT a technological innovation that contributed to the growth of the Second Industrial Revolution?

  • The typewriter.
  • The automobile. (correct)
  • The handheld camera.
  • The telephone.
  • What is the name of the essay written by Andrew Carnegie, which laid out his philosophy of philanthropy for the wealthy?

    <p>Gospel of Wealth. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which business practice did Andrew Carnegie employ to create his successful steel company?

    <p>Vertical Integration. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used for a single company controlling nearly all of the market for a specific product or service?

    <p>Monopoly. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes John D. Rockefeller's business practices?

    <p>Ruthless competition and the use of trusts. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the book by Henry Demarest Lloyd that criticized John D. Rockefeller's Standard Oil Company?

    <p>Wealth Against Commonwealth. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    By 1913, the United States produced what percentage of the world's industrial output?

    <p>33%. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why was the expansion of the railroad system so important during the Gilded Age?

    <p>It facilitated the growth of cities and urban centers. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was NOT a critique of the social order during the Gilded Age?

    <p>Social Darwinism (A), Gospel of Wealth and the role of philanthropy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main idea behind "conspicuous consumption"?

    <p>Spending money to show off wealth (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main factor leading to economic insecurity for workers during the Gilded Age?

    <p>Dependence on technical skills rather than ownership (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major impact of the Great Railroad Strike of 1877?

    <p>The construction of armories in major cities (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Social Darwinism influence the social order of the Gilded Age?

    <p>It justified the gap between the rich and the poor (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main impact of the "liberty of contract" ideology on labor relations during the Gilded Age?

    <p>It limited government intervention in labor disputes and favored business interests (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main message of "How the Other Half Lives" by Jacob Riis?

    <p>The harsh realities of poverty in urban America (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was NOT a characteristic of the Gilded Age?

    <p>Widespread poverty alongside a growing class of millionaires (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an accurate description of the "Social Gospel"?

    <p>A movement that promoted Christian values in social reform (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did the Sherman Antitrust Act have on labor unions?

    <p>It was used by judges to issue injunctions prohibiting strikes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Henry George's proposed solution to the problem he outlined in Progress and Poverty?

    <p>A single tax applied to the increase in the value of land. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Edward Bellamy's novel Looking Backward suggest about the nature of freedom?

    <p>True freedom is rooted in interdependence and mutual responsibility within society. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was NOT a target of the "Christian lobby" in the late 19th and early 20th centuries?

    <p>The pursuit of wealth (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key factor in the growth of commercial agriculture in the West?

    <p>The expansion of railroads and the growth of urban markets (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main motivation for the Mormons to settle in the Great Salt Lake Valley?

    <p>To escape persecution for their religious beliefs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the significance of the Morrill Land Grant College Act?

    <p>It provided land for the development of public universities in the Western territories (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major challenge faced by many farmers in the West during the late 19th century?

    <p>The overproduction of crops and the resulting decline in prices (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary motivation for Chinese immigration to the West?

    <p>To work on railroad construction and other labor-intensive projects (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the significance of the Transcontinental Railroad?

    <p>All of the Above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about the role of women in the West is correct?

    <p>Women were primarily responsible for domestic chores and raising children. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about the relationship between the federal government and the West is accurate?

    <p>The federal government actively promoted westward expansion through land grants and policies. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the significance of the Mountain Meadows Massacre?

    <p>It highlighted the tensions and violence that existed between different groups in the West. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key feature of Social Darwinism?

    <p>It justified social inequality and economic disparities as a natural outcome of competition. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did William Graham Sumner play in promoting Social Darwinism?

    <p>He helped develop the theory of Social Darwinism through his writings and lectures. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the impact of Social Darwinism on labor movements?

    <p>It provided a theoretical justification for laissez-faire economics and opposed government intervention in labor disputes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main reason for the high level of voter turnout during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The parties were closely divided and intensely loyal. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are some examples of how the federal government actively intervened in the development of the West?

    <p>It provided subsidies to railroads and land grants to farmers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant challenge faced by the development of the West?

    <p>The conflict between white settlers, Native peoples, and the Mexican population. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the political climate of the Gilded Age?

    <p>A time of intense partisan rivalry with little effort to address economic concerns. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be considered to be a positive outcome of the development of the West?

    <p>All of the Above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following groups benefited most from the Republican economic policies of the Gilded Age?

    <p>Eastern industrialists and bankers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The creation of the Civil Service Act of 1883 had what unintended consequence?

    <p>It increased the dependence of politicians on business donations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary purpose of the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) established in 1887?

    <p>To ensure fair railroad rates for farmers and merchants. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following groups was specifically targeted by the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890?

    <p>Monopolies (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary economic policy pursued by the Republicans in the 1870s?

    <p>Reduction of federal spending, repayment of the national debt, and withdrawal of greenbacks from circulation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following groups was a significant part of the Democratic base in the Gilded Age?

    <p>Catholic workers (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the relationship between the government and the economy during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The government primarily served the interests of big business. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the aftermath of the Civil War, what was the primary focus of state governments in the North?

    <p>Investment in infrastructure and public services (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following issues in the U.S. today parallels a significant economic issue of the Gilded Age?

    <p>Consolidation of wealth and income inequality (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What historical parallel exists between the Gilded Age and today with regards to business practices?

    <p>The emergence of monopolies and corporate dominance (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these issues is NOT directly linked to the ongoing debate about government regulation of business in the U.S. today?

    <p>Controlling inflation and maintaining a stable economy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What common concern is highlighted in the comparison between the Gilded Age and the present, regarding both labor rights and government regulation?

    <p>The need for a balance between economic growth and social justice (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the comparison between the Gilded Age and the contemporary U.S. economy suggest about the nature of economic issues?

    <p>Economic issues are cyclical and tend to reappear in different forms over time (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major factor that contributed to the decline of labor unions in the late 1890s?

    <p>Public perception of unions shifted, viewing them as anti-American and dangerous. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant shift in the American Federation of Labor's (AFL) approach during the 1890s?

    <p>It shifted from a reformist approach to a more limited focus on securing better wages and working conditions for skilled workers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of the Gilded Age, what was the main argument for the "free coinage" of silver?

    <p>It would increase the money supply, making it easier for farmers to pay off their debts. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the core argument of the Republican Party regarding the gold standard during the 1896 election?

    <p>That it was the only way to ensure economic stability and growth. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did the Gold Standard Act of 1900 have on the American economy?

    <p>It made it harder to increase the money supply, which could have limited economic growth. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the Gilded Age, what was the prevailing perspective on the responsibility for ensuring economic freedom in American society?

    <p>Individuals should be responsible for their own economic success, with minimal government interference. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following examples best illustrates the concept of Social Darwinism in the Gilded Age?

    <p>The success of Andrew Carnegie's steel company through aggressive business practices and a focus on efficiency. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key difference between "business unionism" and the more reformist approach of earlier labor unions?

    <p>Business unions focused on securing better wages and working conditions for skilled workers, excluding unskilled workers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following events or movements demonstrates the demand for government intervention in the economy during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The emergence of the Populist Party and its platform of government reforms. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the McKinley Tariff of 1890 and the Dingley Tariff of 1897 impact the American economy?

    <p>They protected American businesses from foreign competition but also increased prices for consumers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did urban working-class voters shift their support to the Republican Party in the 1890s?

    <p>They were persuaded by the Republican Party's promise of economic prosperity through protective tariffs. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant difference between the presidential campaigns of William Jennings Bryan and William McKinley in 1896?

    <p>Bryan advocated for the free coinage of silver, while McKinley supported the gold standard. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major reason for the rise of the Populist Party in the 1890s?

    <p>The Populist Party's support for the free coinage of silver and its appeal to farmers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately reflects the outcome of the 1896 presidential election?

    <p>William McKinley’s campaign used money and organization to win over many urban voters and secured victory. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant impact of the Gilded Age on the American political landscape?

    <p>It solidified the dominance of the Republican Party, particularly in the industrial Northeast. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant difference in priorities between the Populist movement and industrial workers?

    <p>The Populists focused on agricultural concerns, while industrial workers prioritized urban issues. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major factor that hindered the Populist movement's ability to appeal to industrial workers?

    <p>The Populists failed to adequately address the concerns of organized labor regarding unionization. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main reason for the lack of unity between rural and urban workers during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The Populist movement's emphasis on agricultural issues alienated industrial workers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did the Populist movement experience electoral challenges in attracting urban voters?

    <p>The Populists' platform was largely focused on agrarian concerns, which did not resonate with urban workers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of a Gilded Age event that reflects the exploitation of workers during the period?

    <p>The Great Railroad Strike, which involved widespread labor unrest and violence. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a key characteristic of the economic landscape during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The rise of monopolies and trusts, which concentrated wealth and power in the hands of a few. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant argument in favor of government intervention in the economy during the Gilded Age?

    <p>Government regulation was needed to protect workers from exploitation and ensure fair competition in the market. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the rise of monopolies impact the economic landscape of the Gilded Age?

    <p>Monopolies stifled competition, allowing corporations to control prices and exploit workers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key argument made by those who advocated for government intervention in the economy during the Gilded Age?

    <p>Unregulated capitalism led to economic inequality, exploitation of workers, and a concentration of wealth in the hands of a few. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a key government action taken in response to the rise of monopolies during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The passage of the Sherman Antitrust Act, which aimed to break up monopolies and promote fair competition. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major issue faced by workers during the Gilded Age, which contributed to labor unrest and strikes?

    <p>Unsafe working conditions, long hours, and low wages, leading to worker dissatisfaction. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following represents a successful effort by the government to regulate certain industries during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The creation of the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), which aimed to regulate railroads and prevent unfair practices. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a major difference between the Populist movement and the Knights of Labor?

    <p>The Populists advocated for the interests of farmers, while the Knights of Labor focused on the needs of industrial workers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Populist movement's focus on agrarian issues impact their ability to appeal to industrial workers?

    <p>It deepened the divide between farmers and industrial workers, hindering their ability to build a united front. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a significant challenge faced by the Populist movement in building a broad coalition?

    <p>The Populist movement's inability to unite rural and urban workers, hindering their ability to gain a critical mass of support. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the expansion of railroads during the Gilded Age impact business in the United States?

    <p>The expansion of railroads connected national markets, facilitated the movement of goods, and spurred the development of industries in new regions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is considered a major critique of industrial capitalism during the Gilded Age?

    <p>It created new jobs for workers, but its costs were high, including long hours, unsafe working conditions, and low wages. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a common tactic utilized by business owners during the Gilded Age to quell labor strikes?

    <p>Business owners would often employ private security firms, or even use the military, to break up strikes and disperse striking workers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was NOT a major reason that labor unions struggled to be successful during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The economic benefits of industrialization, such as increased wages and better working conditions, caused a lack of interest in joining labor unions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary economic policy adopted by the Federal Government during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The government adopted a policy of laissez-faire economics, taking a hands-off approach to business regulation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main motive behind the United States' policy of Westward Expansion during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The desire for natural resources and agricultural land, driven by the expanding industrial economy in the East. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What were the main goals of the Populist Movement, which emerged during the Gilded Age?

    <p>They sought to improve the lives of farmers by advocating for reforms such as the free coinage of silver, government regulation of railroads, and a graduated income tax. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major factor that contributed to the rise of the Populist movement during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The high costs of land ownership, which made it difficult for farmers to accumulate wealth and purchase necessary tools, leading to widespread debt and exploitation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major issue that the Populist party specifically campaigned on, and what impact did it have?

    <p>The Populist party advocated for an increased money supply, calling for the free coinage of silver. It was a major issue in the 1896 election, but ultimately unsuccessful. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the impact of the election of 1896 on the Populist movement?

    <p>The Populist candidate lost, but the movement's ideas influenced the national political conversation and continued to impact American politics for years to come. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a primary challenge that farmers faced during the late 19th century?

    <p>The increasingly low prices for agricultural goods combined with high railroad rates, resulting in low profits and growing debt. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the government respond to the economic difficulties faced by farmers during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The government primarily sought to promote industrial development and favored big businesses, which often exacerbated the problems faced by farmers. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major outcome of the election of 1896?

    <p>The Republican candidate, William McKinley, was elected president and the gold standard was solidified as the foundation of American currency. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key element of the political climate during the Gilded Age?

    <p>The political sphere was dominated by a small group of wealthy and influential individuals, who used their power to influence government policy and advance their own interests. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the biggest challenges faced by farmers during the Gilded Age, and what was a major result of this challenge?

    <p>Farmers faced increasing competition from foreign farmers and a lack of government support, which contributed to low prices for agricultural goods and rising debt. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the main reasons farmers in the late 19th century felt economically disadvantaged?

    <p>High freight rates charged by railroad companies. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main goal of the Grange movement?

    <p>To create cooperatives to improve farmers' bargaining power. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a major factor contributing to the economic difficulties faced by Southern farmers in the late 19th century?

    <p>The rise of sharecropping, which trapped many farmers in poverty. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major difference between the Farmers' Alliance and the Populist Party?

    <p>The Farmers' Alliance focused on local issues, while the Populist Party sought national political change. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a key element of the Populist platform?

    <p>The expansion of government regulation of industry. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a major challenge faced by the Populist movement?

    <p>The divisions within the movement regarding racial equality. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did Mary Elizabeth Lease play in the Populist movement?

    <p>She was a prominent advocate for women's suffrage. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following events significantly contributed to the Panic of 1893?

    <p>The overexpansion of railroads. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main objective of Coxey's Army?

    <p>To petition for government-funded jobs for the unemployed. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Pullman Strike of 1894 is an example of what kind of labor conflict?

    <p>Strike over wages and working conditions in a company-owned town. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the Populist movement's vision for the future of the American economy?

    <p>A system of regulated capitalism that protected the interests of farmers and workers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Populist movement attempt to address the issues of economic inequality?

    <p>By advocating for a graduated income tax and government control of railroads. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the reasons why the Populist movement ultimately failed to achieve its goals?

    <p>The lack of support from the urban working class. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Populist movement contribute to American political history?

    <p>It brought attention to the needs of rural communities and the problems of economic inequality. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major consequence of the Panic of 1893?

    <p>It caused widespread unemployment and social unrest. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main objective of the Peace Policy of 1869?

    <p>To eradicate Native American culture and assimilate them into American society. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the government's policy of buffalo hunting contribute to the subjugation of Native Americans?

    <p>It depleted a critical food source for Native Americans, weakening their resistance. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the purpose of the Bureau of Indian Affairs' boarding schools?

    <p>To integrate Native American children into mainstream American society through forced assimilation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following accurately describes the Dawes Act of 1887?

    <p>It divided Native American land into individual allotments, opening up much of it for white acquisition. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Elk v. Wilkins case (1884) had what significant impact on Native American citizens?

    <p>It determined that Native Americans were not protected by the same constitutional rights as other citizens. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Ghost Dance movement was a response to which of the following?

    <p>All of the above. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What prompted the Wounded Knee Massacre?

    <p>The government's attempt to suppress the Ghost Dance religious movement, which they saw as a threat. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The term "settler societies" refers to which of the following?

    <p>Nations founded by immigrants who displace the original inhabitants. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the "Wild West" image contribute to the American perception of Native Americans?

    <p>It romanticized the frontier as a place of freedom and adventure, often depicting Native Americans as obstacles or antagonists. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the Gilded Age, what growing concern about political freedom arose in America?

    <p>The increasing influence of corporations and the potential for them to control government policy. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following examples best illustrates the corruption that characterized Gilded Age politics?

    <p>The Crédit Mobilier scandal, where railroad executives bribed politicians to secure government contracts for their own profit. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did the power of corporations during the Gilded Age raise concerns about political freedom?

    <p>Corporations were able to wield significant political influence, potentially undermining democratic processes and self-government. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was NOT a characteristic of corrupt political machines in Gilded Age cities?

    <p>They advocated for reforms designed to improve the lives of city residents. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Civil War influence national elections during the Gilded Age?

    <p>It fueled a divide between the two major parties, reflecting the enduring impact of the war. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the significance of the phrase “Kill the Indian and save the man” in relation to the assimilation of Native American children?

    <p>It reflected the belief among government officials that Native American children would be better off without their traditional upbringing. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes the relationship between the U.S. government and Native Americans in the period after the Civil War?

    <p>The government pursued policies of forced assimilation, aiming to eliminate Native American cultures and integrate them into American society. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Second Industrial Revolution (1870-1920)

    • Explosive economic growth fueled by abundant natural resources, a growing labor supply, expanding markets, and laissez-faire policies.
    • Federal government played a significant role, granting land to railroads and removing Native Americans from desired lands.
    • Majority of workforce transitioned to non-farming jobs, leading to urban growth. Almost 11 million Americans moved from farms to cities (1870-1920)
    • Heartland (Great Lakes region) became center of manufacturing (iron, steel). Chicago became a major city with factories and stockyards.
    • US industrial output surpassed combined output of Great Britain, France, and Germany by 1913.
    • Railroads spurred by government grants spurred cross-cultural exchange, communication, and migration.
    • Standardized time zones were created (1883). Technological innovations like the telephone, typewriter, and electricity. Thomas Edison as an important inventor of the era.
    • Competition and corporate control; Trusts emerged as legal devices to manage rival firms.
    • Era without personal/corporate income taxes; lack of accountability.

    Business Consolidation and Industrialists

    • Vertical integration (controlling all phases of production, Andrew Carnegie, steel) and horizontal integration (acquiring rival firms, John D. Rockefeller, oil).
    • Rockefeller's Standard Oil controlled 90% of the nations oil industry by the 1880s.
    • Philanthropy by the wealthy exemplified by Carnegie and Rockefeller, though often accompanied by ruthless business practices.

    Economic Insecurity and Labor Exploitation

    • Economic insecurity became a reality for many workers, with fears of unemployment and financial hardship.
    • Workers faced harsh conditions with high fatality rates between 1880 and 1900 (est. 35,000 deaths yearly in workplace accidents).
    • Growing wealth disparity; richest 1% held income/property equal to the bottom 99% by 1890.
    • The "Gospel of Wealth" essay by Andrew Carnegie argued for philanthropic responsibility of wealth.

    Critiques and Defenses of Industrial Capitalism

    • Defenses: Social Darwinism (survival of the fittest), liberty of contract, and the Gospel of Wealth. "Rags to Riches" stories popularized the idea of upward mobility.
    • Critiques The gap between the rich and poor, immoral business practices, and the exploitation of workers drove calls for reform.

    Labor and the Republic

    • Labor organizing (Knights of Labor, then AFL) and strikes (Great Railroad Strike of 1877, Homestead Strike 1892, Pullman Strike 1894) became increasingly common.
    • Populist movement emerged as a response to rural hardship. Core of movement resided in farming areas of South and Midwest. Advocated for government regulation and economic reforms (direct election of senators, government control of currency, graduated income tax).
    • Haymarket affair (1886) significantly damaged the image of labor movements (bombing at protest).
    • Attempts to unite Black and white farmers through Populist Party efforts proved unsuccessful due to racist tactics used by Democrats to maintain power.

    The Transformation of the West

    • Federal government actively intervened in the West, distributing land, administering sales, and regulating territorial politics to promote settlement and resource extraction.
    • Homestead Act allowed families to obtain land for agriculture.
    • Mining was a major economic activity, with gold and silver rushes. Chinese immigration spurred by labor demands in mining, railroad, and farming.
    • Conflicts with Native Americans arose over land rights, resources, and cultural differences.

    Politics in the Gilded Age

    • Political corruption and party politics marked the era (Tweed Ring).
    • The rise of new corporations raised the question of whether wealth or men held power.
    • Significant effort went into campaigning, despite limited presidential action/influence over public opinion.
    • Two major parties had different approaches to tariffs (Republicans supported; Democrats opposed) and money supply issues (Republicans favored gold standard; Democrats favored silver/bimetallism).

    The Populist Challenge

    • The Populist Party platform of 1892 demanded economic and political reforms. Women became prominent figures in the Populist movement.
    • The Panic of 1893 deepened economic issues faced by farmers and workers and inspired further uprisings.
    • The Homestead Strike (1892) and Coxey's Army (1894) are examples of significant labor uprisings.
    • Pullman Strike (1894) and government injunction for an end to striking labor unions.

    The Election of 1896

    • The election was a pivotal moment in national and economic history, consolidating the focus on the gold/silver standard, and the outcome influenced party alliances for decades to come. William Jennings Bryan was the Populist/Democratic presidential candidate, but lost to William McKinley.
    • Republicans' focus on big industry/protectionism triumphed over the Populist and Democratic campaigns.

    Comparing Gilded Age to Today

    • Income inequality remains a pressing issue.
    • The emergence of large corporations like the ones during Gilded Age is still a concern.
    • Labor rights and conditions remain areas of continuous negotiation and struggle.
    • The continuing debate on government regulation is similar to the Gilded Age.

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    Description

    Test your knowledge on the major events and figures of the Gilded Age in the United States. This quiz covers topics like industrialization, key business leaders, and technological innovations that shaped the era. From Andrew Carnegie's philosophies to John D. Rockefeller's practices, see how much you remember about this transformative period in American history.

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