Gilded Age

Definition

The Gilded Age refers to the late 19th century period in the United States, marked by rapid industrialization, economic growth, and significant social change, but also characterized by political corruption and stark inequality. During this time, a small elite class amassed great wealth and power, often overshadowing the struggles of the working class, raising questions about who truly governs in society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The term 'Gilded Age' was coined by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner in their 1873 novel to describe the superficial glitter of wealth that masked deeper social problems.
2. During the Gilded Age, America experienced an influx of immigrants seeking job opportunities in factories, which fueled industrial growth but also led to labor exploitation.
3. Big business leaders like John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie became incredibly wealthy, leading to growing concerns about monopolies and corporate power over government.
4. The period saw significant labor unrest, including strikes and protests as workers demanded better wages and working conditions amidst harsh realities.
5. Political corruption was rampant, with scandals such as the Crédit Mobilier scandal highlighting the deep ties between politics and big business.

Review Questions

• How did the economic developments during the Gilded Age affect the distribution of power among different social classes?
  • The economic developments during the Gilded Age led to a significant concentration of wealth among a small elite class, often referred to as 'captains of industry' or 'robber barons.' This created stark disparities between the rich and poor, with many workers struggling in low-wage jobs while industrialists amassed great fortunes. Consequently, this imbalance in wealth translated into political power, as wealthy elites could influence legislation and policies to serve their interests over those of the general populace.
• What role did political machines play in governance during the Gilded Age, and how did they reflect issues of elitism?
  • Political machines dominated local politics during the Gilded Age by providing services and support in exchange for votes, effectively controlling city governments. These organizations often engaged in corrupt practices to maintain power, reflecting a system where a few individuals could manipulate governance for their benefit. This phenomenon highlighted elitism in politics, as decisions were made by powerful leaders rather than through democratic processes that considered the needs of all citizens.
• Evaluate the impact of Social Darwinism on public policy during the Gilded Age and its implications for social equity.
  • Social Darwinism significantly influenced public policy during the Gilded Age by justifying laissez-faire capitalism and minimal government intervention in the economy. Proponents argued that wealth accumulation was a natural result of superiority and that aiding the poor would undermine societal progress. This ideology reinforced existing inequalities and discouraged efforts to address poverty or regulate corporate power, ultimately leading to policies that favored elites while neglecting social equity for the working class.

Related terms

Industrialization: The process of developing industries in a country or region on a wide scale, significantly transforming the American economy and society during the Gilded Age.

Political Machines: Corrupt political organizations that controlled local governments and were known for their patronage systems, thriving during the Gilded Age.

Social Darwinism: A belief that applied Darwin's theory of evolution to society, suggesting that the wealthy were naturally superior and that social inequalities were a part of natural selection.