The Gilded Age

Gilded Age

A term coined by Mark Twain, referring to a period of serious problems masked by economic growth in America from 1865 to 1900.

Industrialization

The process of developing industries in a country or region, which became prominent in America during the Gilded Age.

Free Enterprise

An economic system where individuals own most businesses and there is minimal government intervention.

Monopoly

When a single company controls an entire product market, allowing it to set prices freely.

Entrepreneur

Individuals who take risks to start their own businesses, contributing to economic growth.

Patents

Grants by the federal government that give a person exclusive rights to develop and sell an invention for a certain period of time.

Urbanization

The growth of cities in size and population, often leading to various social issues.

Nativism

The belief that native-born white Americans are superior to immigrants, often leading to discriminatory policies.

Vertical Integration

A business strategy where a company gains control over all parts of the production process.

Horizontal Integration

A strategy where a company gains control over many businesses that produce the same product.

Robber Barons

Businessmen who formed monopolies and trusts, often criticized for exploiting workers and consumers.

Social Darwinism

The belief that successful individuals were naturally superior, while the poor were considered less fit.

Political Machine

An organization that influences political activities in a city government, often using corrupt practices.

Ellis Island

An immigration processing station in New York City where millions of immigrants entered the U.S. from 1892 to 1954.

Angel Island

An immigration processing station on the West Coast, primarily for Asian immigrants, known for harsher conditions.

Americanization Programs

Initiatives aimed at assimilating immigrants into American culture, promoting English learning and traditional American practices.

American Federation of Labor (AFL)

A union founded only for skilled laborers, focused on shorter workweeks and higher wages.

Knights of Labor

A labor union active in the 1880s that included all workers regardless of skill or race.

Pullman Strike

A nationwide railroad strike in 1894 that protested wage cuts and resulted in federal intervention.

Gospel of Wealth

An article written by Andrew Carnegie advocating that the wealthy have a responsibility to use their money for the public good.