Industrial America: The Gilded Age (1865-1898)

This flashcard set covers key concepts, figures, and events from the Gilded Age, focusing on industrialization, labor movements, immigration, and economic theories.

What characterized the new industrial economy during the Gilded Age?

Abundant resources, a growing population, and a surge of innovation.

Who was Cornelius Vanderbilt?

A major figure in the railroad industry during the Gilded Age, known as the 'Commodore'.

What process revolutionized steel production?

The Bessemer process.

Which invention is associated with Alexander Graham Bell?

The telephone.

What is the significance of the term 'Urbanization'?

The rapid growth of urban populations from 10 million to 54 million between 1870 and 1920.

What was 'Taylorism'?

A managerial theory that analyzed and synthesized workflows to improve economic efficiency.

Who introduced the concept of Scientific Management?

Frederick W. Taylor.

What are 'Robber Barons'?

Wealthy industrialists who exploited workers and manipulated markets.

Which industry is J.D. Rockefeller associated with?

The Standard Oil company, representing horizontal integration.

What was the purpose of a 'Holding Company'?

To control multiple companies by owning their stocks.

What did the Gospel of Wealth advocate?

Wealthy individuals should act as trustees for society.

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

It was viewed as a communist uprising and led to violent clashes.

What led to the downfall of the Knights of Labor?

The events of the Haymarket Square incident and public perception of labor chaos.

What was the Pullman Strike and its consequence?

A nationwide railroad strike that turned violent, leading President Cleveland to send in troops.

What did immigrants experience in America during the Gilded Age?

Many faced poor working conditions, long hours, and low wages.

What was the American Federation of Labor focused on?

Improving wages, hours, and working conditions for skilled workers.

What was the significance of the 'Melting Pot' myth?

It suggested ethnicities intertwined, while in reality, ethnic neighborhoods formed.

Who rejected Social Darwinism?

Lester Frank Ward, advocating government intervention to shape society.

What were 'trusts' in the context of Gilded Age business?

Entities managing assets for another company, often used to consolidate power.

What did the term 'Social Darwinism' imply about capitalism?

It suggested that competition and wealth were natural results of survival of the fittest.

What was the demographic change in U.S. population from 1790 to 1890?

In 1790, 95% lived on farms; by 1890, only 35% did.

What defined the 'Old Wave' of immigration before 1880?

Immigrants primarily from Northern and Western Europe, often skilled and literate.

What was the primary criticism of capitalism by Karl Marx?

That it was unjust to workers and allowed the wealthy to exploit the working class.

What was the consequence of Theodore Roosevelt's approach toward monopolies?

He actively sought to regulate big businesses, contrasting the laissez-faire attitudes.

What was the effect of economic cycles on the working class?

Workers faced job insecurity due to boom and bust cycles.

Describe the 'dumbbell tenement'.

A type of residential building designed to maximize space in urban areas, often overcrowded.

What viewpoint did the American Protective Association promote?

Anti-Catholic and anti-foreigner sentiments, leading to calls for immigration restriction.

What myth did Horatio Alger perpetuate?

The rags-to-riches story, suggesting anyone could become wealthy through hard work.

What was the contradicting view of Labor Unions by the middle class?

They often saw union actions as chaotic and radical, leading to fear and backlash.

What did strikes like the Homestead Strike lead to?

The decline of labor support when violence erupted.

What significant demographic shift happened by 1890?

Urban populations grew significantly due to industrialization and immigration.