Untitled Flashcard Set

The Gilded Age

The period between 1870 – 1900 known for rapid industrialization and serious social problems.

Gross National Product (GNP)

The total value of all goods and services produced by a country.

Natural Resources

Materials such as coal, iron, oil, and timber essential for industrial growth.

Massive Immigration

A significant influx of people into the U.S. after the Civil War, contributing to population growth.

Free Enterprise

An economic system that allows individuals to own businesses and make a profit with minimal government interference.

Laissez-faire

The idea of minimal government interference in business and the economy.

Entrepreneurs

Individuals who risk capital to create and manage businesses.

Robber Barons

Business leaders who use unethical practices to amass wealth.

Political Machines

Corrupt informal political groups that gain and maintain power in urban areas.

Graft

Money obtained through dishonest means, often involving bribery.

Transcontinental Railroad

A railroad line that connected the East and West coasts of the United States.

Industrialization

The process of developing industries in a region or country.

Urbanization

The rapid growth of cities as a result of industrialization and immigration.

Social Darwinism

A belief that the strongest individuals or groups naturally succeed in society.

Gospel of Wealth

Andrew Carnegie's philosophy that the wealthy should use their fortunes for social good.

Reform Darwinism

The belief that societal progress can be guided through government efforts rather than natural selection.

Social Gospel

A religious movement advocating for applying Christian principles to social issues.

Americanization

The process of integrating immigrants into American culture.

Overcrowding

High population density in cities leading to poor living conditions.

Crime Rates

The frequency of crime incidents, often increased due to urbanization.

Public Health Crises

Major health issues arising from poor living conditions and disease spread.

Political Corruption

Dishonest practices by those in power, often for personal gain.

Cultural Assimilation

The process by which minority groups adopt the cultural norms of a dominant group.

Massive Families

Large families contributing to population growth in the U.S.

Infrastructure Challenges

Difficulties faced by cities in accommodating rapid urban growth.

Skyscrapers

Tall buildings that emerged during industrialization, transforming urban landscapes.

Efficient Resource Transportation

The quick movement of resources enabled by railroads and advanced logistics.

Labor Demand

The need for workers driven by industrial growth.

Immigrant Support Base

The population of immigrants who relied on political machines for assistance.

Ellis Island

The primary immigration station in the U.S. for Europeans.

Angel Island

The immigration station that processed Asian immigrants facing harsher conditions.

Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882

Legislation that severely limited Chinese immigration to the U.S.

Social Inequality

The unequal distribution of resources and opportunities in society.

Philanthropic Efforts

Charitable actions taken by the wealthy to improve society.

Transportation Development

The advancement of railroads and other transport systems during industrialization.

Labor Force Expansion

The increase in available workers supporting industrial growth.

Tenements

Overcrowded and often substandard housing for urban workers.

Urban Infrastructure

The physical structures and services supporting urban areas.

Job Competition

The struggle for employment opportunities, often leading to social tensions.

Economic Integration

The merging of economic activities resulting from improved transport systems.

Standardized Time Zones

Time uniformity established with the expansion of railroads.

Crisis of Overcrowding

The societal problems resulting from insufficient living space in urban areas.

Civil War Impact on Industrialization

The effects of the Civil War that accelerated industrial growth in the U.S.

Urban Issues

Problems in cities related to high populations, crime, and infrastructure.

Labor Rights

The legal rights and protections for workers.

Political Influence of Immigrants

The role immigrants played in the local politics, often through political machines.

Innovations in Industry

Technological advancements that increased productivity.

Cultural Conflicts

Tensions arising from differences between immigrant groups and native populations.

Economic Opportunities

The chance for individuals or groups to improve their financial status.

Government Policies on Industry

Rules and regulations that shape the business environment.

Immigrant Contributions to Economy

Positive impacts immigrants have on the economic growth through labor and consumption.

Wealth Disparity

The significant difference in wealth levels among individuals or groups.

Bribery in Politics

Offering money or favors to influence political decisions.

Trusts

Several companies controlled by one corporation to eliminate competition.

Social Safety Nets

Programs designed to provide support for those in need.

Vocational Training

Education focused on teaching skills necessary for specific jobs.

Moral Responsibility of Wealthy

The belief that wealthy individuals should help the less fortunate.

Irony of Industrial Progress

The juxtaposition between economic growth and social problems.

Labor Unions

Organizations formed by workers to protect their rights.

Emergence of New Classes

The development of a working and middle class during the Gilded Age.

Economic Migration

Movement of people for economic opportunities.

Lack of Regulation

The absence of government rules governing business practices.

Consumer Demand

The desire for products and services that drives economic growth.

Technological Advancements

New inventions that resulted in changes in manufacturing and production.

Discrimination against Immigrants

The bias and unfair treatment of immigrants based on their background.

Impact of Immigration on Democracy

How immigration trends shape democratic processes and policies.

Self-Sufficiency

The ability of individuals or communities to meet their own needs.

Civic Engagement

Participation in political or community activities.

Social Activism

Efforts to promote, impede, or direct social, political, economic, or environmental reform.

Urbanization and the Environment

The effects of increased urban development on natural surroundings.

Cultural Diversity

Variety of cultural or ethnic groups within a society.