U.S. Government, History, and Economics: Gilded Age and Civic Principles

Checks and balances

A principle from the Constitution that prevents any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

Consent of the governed

An idea from the Declaration of Independence that states a government's power comes from the people.

The Bill of Rights

A document that protects freedoms of speech, assembly, and religion.

Individualism

A concept described by Alexis de Tocqueville as citizens creating their own success.

E Pluribus Unum

A phrase used to express unity among diverse colonies.

Civic responsibility

An obligation required by law, such as serving on a jury when called.

Railroads during the Gilded Age

Important for providing access to distant markets.

Electricity during the Gilded Age

Made manufacturing more efficient.

Urbanization issues in the late 1800s

Resulted in sanitation issues in growing cities.

Labor unions during the Gilded Age

Formed to fight for better pay and safer workplaces.

Monopoly

Describes total control of an industry by one company.

Political machines

Gained power in cities by providing services in exchange for votes.

Immigration during the Gilded Age

Many immigrants came for better economic opportunities.

Nativists

A group that wanted restrictions on immigration.

Chinese Exclusion Act

A law that specifically targeted Asian immigrants.

Homestead Act

Encouraged settlement of the Great Plains.

Assimilation policies toward Native Americans

Aimed to force Native Americans to adopt U.S. culture.

Bessemer process

Made cheaper steel possible, allowing for taller buildings.

Nativist opposition to immigration

Rooted in the fear of job competition.

Gilded Age

Described as a period of rapid industrial growth and political corruption.