Gilded Age, Social Issues, and U.S. Industrialization: Key Concepts and Events

What does the term 'gilded' imply in the context of the Gilded Age?

It refers to a superficial layer of wealth and prosperity that conceals underlying social issues.

What time period is referred to as the Gilded Age?

Approximately 1870s to 1900.

What characterized the economic growth during the Gilded Age?

Rapid economic growth, especially in the North and West, alongside stark social inequalities.

Who were the 'robber barons' during the Gilded Age?

Wealthy industrialists like John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie who amassed fortunes through exploitative practices.

What industry did John D. Rockefeller dominate?

The oil industry.

What was Andrew Carnegie known for?

Revolutionizing the steel industry and becoming a philanthropist advocating for libraries and education.

What historical event marked the emergence of Jim Crow laws?

The Compromise of 1877, which ended Reconstruction and withdrew federal troops from the South.

What was the purpose of the Grandfather Clause?

To allow individuals to bypass literacy tests and poll taxes if their grandfathers had been eligible to vote before 1867.

How did literacy tests disenfranchise African Americans?

They required individuals to pass complex tests that were often unfairly administered.

What were poll taxes and how did they affect African Americans?

Fees required to vote that disproportionately affected poor African Americans who could not afford to pay.

What was the significance of the Plessy v. Ferguson case?

It upheld the constitutionality of racial segregation under the 'separate but equal' doctrine.

How was the 14th Amendment interpreted in relation to segregation?

It was interpreted in a way that permitted segregation, highlighting legal challenges faced by African Americans.

What demographic changes occurred in the U.S. during the late 19th century?

A significant influx of immigrants from Eastern and Southern Europe, including Italians, Greeks, Russians, and Germans.

What was the Asian Exclusion Act?

A response to labor competition that targeted Chinese immigrants, reflecting racial prejudices of the time.

What role did labor movements play during the Gilded Age?

Workers sought better conditions and wages, often clashing with industrialists and their political allies.

What characterized the Second Industrial Revolution?

The use of new materials and technologies, including electricity and mass production techniques.

What innovations transformed communication during the Second Industrial Revolution?

The telephone and mass newspapers, which influenced public opinion.

How did transportation advancements impact the American economy during the Gilded Age?

The rise of steamships and trains facilitated trade and migration, reshaping the American landscape and economy.

What was Standard Oil known for?

It became a symbol of monopolistic practices and corporate power in America, controlling a significant portion of the oil market.

What company exemplified efficiency and innovation in steel production during the Gilded Age?

Carnegie Steel, founded by Andrew Carnegie.

What significant company was established in 1901 as a result of Carnegie's influence?

U.S. Steel, valued at $14 billion.

How did Carnegie and Rockefeller use their wealth during the Gilded Age?

They influenced politics and society through philanthropic efforts while facing criticism for their business practices.

What does the term 'Gilded Age' signify in American history?

A period of great economic prosperity for some, highlighting stark inequalities and social issues.

What social issues persisted during the Gilded Age?

Inequalities faced by marginalized groups, particularly African Americans and immigrants.

What was the purpose of labor unions during the Gilded Age?

To address industrial inequality.

What was the Farmers Alliance created for?

To reduce the treatment of farmers as individuals and to network about their beliefs.

What was the main goal of the People's Party?

To advocate for graduated income tax, direct election of senators, civil service reform, and an eight-hour workday.

Who was Sockless Jerry Simpson?

A self-taught intelligent speaker who connected with regular people and represented the People's Party.

What was the significance of the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire in 1911?

It highlighted the unsafe working conditions for women and led to discussions about labor rights.

What was Jacob Riis known for?

Being an early reformer who wrote 'How the Other Half Lives,' which exposed the conditions of the poor.

What was the impact of 'How the Other Half Lives' on society?

It opened the eyes of some and paved the way for the progressive movement.

What was the role of the American Federation of Labor?

To represent skilled workers and focus on practical labor issues.

What was the significance of the Cross of Gold Speech?

It was a famous speech by William Jennings Bryan advocating for bimetallism.

What was the Anti-Imperialist League's stance?

They opposed American imperialism and the takeover of other nations.

What was the Boxer Rebellion?

A movement in China (1899-1901) aimed at reverting to traditional ways and resisting foreign influence.

What economic conditions did farmers face during the Gilded Age?

Farm commodities plunged by 30-60%, leading to economic distress.

What was the purpose of cooperatives for farmers?

To buy in bulk at cheaper prices and reduce costs.

What was the significance of the Philippine-American War?

It involved the U.S. trying to maintain control over the Philippines as a strategic port.

What reforms did the People's Party advocate for regarding senators?

Direct election of senators to reduce corruption.

What was the impact of the Great Depression on farmers?

It exacerbated their economic struggles and led to organized revolts.

What was the Producer Ideology?

The belief that production is virtuous and should be valued.

What was the main criticism of the factory system highlighted by the Triangle Shirtwaist Fire?

The lack of safety measures and rights for workers, particularly women.

What was the Eight Nation Alliance?

A rebellion comprised of soldiers from various countries.

What did people mistake Chinese nationalist martial arts as?

Boxing.

What were Labor Unions formed to address?

Industrial inequality.

What was the purpose of the Populists?

Formed in 1890 & demanded . . .

-Government regulation of railroads in order to lower rates

-A national income tax to take the burden of taxation off farmers

-Direct-election of Senators to make politicians more responsive

-Bimetalism: Using gold & silver to inflate the money supply

How is imperialism related to US industrialization?

Imperialism is considered an outgrowth of US industrialization.

What was the Open Door Note of 1899?

A statement asserting that all nations should be able to trade equally with China.

What significant event occurred on February 15, 1898, involving the USS Maine?

The USS Maine exploded, killing everyone aboard, leading to tensions with Spain.

What was the outcome of the Spanish-American War?

It lasted 4 months, and Americans remained in the Philippines, facing resistance.

What did yellow journalism aim to achieve?

To portray the United States as the 'good guys' in conflicts.

Who was Evangelina Cisneros?

A woman captured while trying to free her father from prison.

What was the impact of the gold discovery in Klondike in 1894?

It led to a huge influx of people seeking wealth.

What occurred within the Democratic Party in the late 1890s?

The party split internally, with some favoring the gold standard.

What did McKinley impose during his presidency?

The idea of imperialism.

What characterized the Progressive movement of the 1890s?

A movement of reformers addressing issues caused by big business and inequality.

What was the conflict between democracy and efficiency in the Progressive era?

Progressives struggled to balance democratic values with the need for efficient governance.

Who were the typical members of the Progressive movement?

Upper middle class, educated professionals such as lawyers, doctors, and journalists.

What was Thomas Jefferson's vision for America?

A nation of independent farmers emphasizing democratic values.

How did Alexander Hamilton's view differ from Jefferson's?

Hamilton emphasized efficiency and manufacturing power, believing it was key to national strength.

What did progressives believe about corporations?

They believed corporations should serve the people and improve conditions for all.

What was the general sentiment towards the 'unwashed masses' among progressives?

They were suspicious and did not trust them to make informed decisions.

What was the significance of the merger between the Populist and Democratic parties in 1896?

It represented a unification of interests in addressing economic issues.

What was the belief system that emphasized logic and reason during the Progressive Era?

Faith in science and progress.

What idea did eugenics promote regarding mankind?

A self-directed idea of mankind, often associated with the belief that certain races or classes were superior.

Which social group was eugenics particularly popular among?

Progressives.

What does the term 'Chauvinistic' refer to in the context of the Progressive Era?

The belief that anyone who didn't conform to their way of thinking was wrong, often exemplified by the view that middle-class white Americans were the only ones doing things correctly.

What was 'The Melting Pot' in relation to American society?

A metaphor for the assimilation of immigrants into American culture, often through schooling.

Who were the Muckrakers?

Journalists who investigated and exposed corruption and social problems.

What magazine is associated with the Muckrakers?

McClure's Magazine.

What was the subject of Upton Sinclair's novel 'The Jungle'?

The exploitation of immigrants by corporations.

What was the public reaction to 'The Jungle'?

People were disgusted by the conditions described in the novel.

What was the focus of Municipal Reform during the Progressive Era?

To improve city governance and services, often through the establishment of city managers.

What was the Wisconsin Plan?

A model of direct democracy that aimed to restore popular control over government.

What is a referendum?

A direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal.

What is an initiative in the context of Progressive reforms?

A process that allows citizens to propose legislation and vote on it directly.

What was the stance of Progressives on taxation?

They believed in progressive taxation, where the rich should pay more based on their usage of public services.

What is Workers' Compensation?

A system where employers pay for workers who get injured on the job, aimed at making capitalism less cruel.

What does the Primary System allow voters to do?

Vote directly for a party's candidates.

What significant right was granted to women during the Progressive Era?

Women's Suffrage, the right for women to vote.

What was Theodore Roosevelt's background?

He was born rich and struggled against physical weakness, becoming a manly figure through boxing and ranching.

What role did Roosevelt play in the Spanish-American War?

He was the Assistant Secretary of the Navy and organized the Rough Riders.

What was 'The Square Deal'?

The idea that the government should work for both businesses and the public.

What was the Northern Securities case of 1904?

A Supreme Court case where Roosevelt blocked a railroad merger deemed harmful to the public.

What major legislation was passed in response to public demand for meat inspection?

The Meat Inspection Act and the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906.

What was a significant aspect of Roosevelt's foreign policy?

He sailed the Great White Fleet around the world to demonstrate American naval power.

What did Roosevelt require from Congress regarding the Great White Fleet?

funding to bring the fleet home after its round-the-world trip.

What was Roosevelt's decision regarding a third presidential term?

He decided not to seek a third term.

Who helped William Howard Taft get elected president?

Theodore Roosevelt.

What was one notable physical characteristic of Taft?

He was 6'4" tall.

What humorous incident is associated with Taft during his presidency?

He famously got stuck in the White House bathtub.

What is the essence of Progressivism as described in the notes?

The heart of Jeffersonian ends achieved by Hamiltonian means.

How is Roosevelt's personality described in relation to his political influence?

He had a powerful personality.

What was Taft's reputation as a leader and communicator?

He was considered a poor leader and communicator, but a fantastic administrator.

What led to Taft being viewed as a traitor by some?

He sided with GOP conservatives and fired TR's appointees.

What significant political event occurred in 1912 involving Roosevelt and Taft?

Roosevelt challenged Taft for the Republican nomination.

What was the Progressive Party, and who led it?

The Progressive Party was established by Roosevelt to regulate business and monopolies.

What was Roosevelt's famous declaration after being shot?

"I feel as strong as a bull moose."

What were the two categories of monopolies according to Roosevelt?

Good monopolies serve the public interest, while bad monopolies do not.

What major reforms did Woodrow Wilson advocate for?

Social insurance, labor reform, woman suffrage, and direct election of senators.