Big Business, Labor, and Technological Innovations: 1860-1900

What was the focus of the Second Industrial Revolution?

Modern transportation and communication.

How did electricity improve factory efficiency?

It allowed for better production processes and machinery.

Who invented the phonograph?

Thomas Edison.

What significant invention did Alexander Graham Bell create?

The telephone.

What type of current did Thomas Edison develop?

Direct Current (DC).

What was Nikola Tesla's contribution to electricity?

He created Alternating Current (AC), which could transmit electricity over longer distances.

What major event highlighted the rivalry between Edison and Tesla?

The World Fair in Chicago where Tesla and Westinghouse powered the event.

What was the impact of the railroad network on America?

It unified the nation, established time zones, and improved transportation for goods and people.

What business model did John D. Rockefeller use to control oil refining?

Trusts and horizontal integration.

What was Andrew Carnegie's approach to steel production?

Vertical integration, controlling all steps of production.

What process did Carnegie use to improve steel production?

The Bessemer Process, which infused oxygen into iron.

What was the significance of JP Morgan's business practices?

He bought out smaller businesses and created the United States Steel Company, the first billion-dollar corporation.

What did Carnegie argue about wealth accumulation?

He believed it was good and advocated for philanthropy, exemplified by Carnegie Hall.

What was the American Federation of Labor (AFL)?

A federation of various unions created by Samuel Gompers to represent workers' interests.

What was the Homestead Steel Strike?

A strike against Carnegie Steel, marked by violence and a lockout of unionists.

What social issues arose from urbanization in the late 19th century?

Sanitation problems, poor housing conditions, and increased population density.

What was the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882?

A law that banned Chinese immigration to the US for 10 years.

What concept did Herbert Spencer introduce that applied to society?

Social Darwinism, suggesting that the wealthy were the 'fittest' and deserved their wealth.

What was the Pendleton Civil Service Act?

An act that limited campaign contributions from federal employees and established rules for fundraising.

What was the purpose of the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC)?

To regulate railroads and ensure fair rates.

What did the Sherman Antitrust Act aim to do?

Outlaw combinations that restrained trade, targeting trusts and monopolies.

What was the Farmers Alliance?

An organization aimed at helping farmers suffering from deflation and high railroad rates.

Who was William Jennings Bryan?

A Democratic candidate in the 1900 election who advocated for populist policies.

What economic condition did farmers face in the late 19th century?

Deflation of prices and rising debts.

What was the impact of immigration on the labor force during this period?

It increased the labor force by 30%, with many immigrants filling low-skilled jobs.

What was the significance of the term 'Gospel of Wealth'?

It reflected Carnegie's belief that the wealthy should use their riches for the greater good.

How did the workweek change by 1900?

It decreased from over 65 hours to under 60 hours.

What was the role of political machines in urban politics?

They dominated city politics by providing jobs and support to inner-city populations.