Age of Industry

Boss Tweed – Tammany Hall

A political leader in New York City known for corruption and manipulation of city politics. Led Tammany Hall, a powerful political organization that dominated the Democratic Party. His actions brought attention to political corruption and led to reforms.

Thomas Nast

A political cartoonist who used his art to expose corruption, especially in Tammany Hall. His illustrations played a key role in the downfall of Boss Tweed. Recognized as the father of the American political cartoon.

Election of 1876

A highly controversial presidential election between Rutherford B. Hayes and Samuel J. Tilden. Marked by disputes over electoral votes, leading to the Compromise of 1877. Resulted in the end of Reconstruction and the withdrawal of federal troops from the South.

Half Breeds, Mugwumps, Stalwarts

Factions within the Republican Party: Half Breeds supported civil service reform and a merit-based system. Mugwumps were reform-minded Republicans who backed Democrat Grover Cleveland. Stalwarts defended the patronage system and traditional party politics.

Election of 1880

Featured a split Republican Party with various factions vying for power. James A. Garfield emerged as the nominee, despite having little initial support. Resulted in a narrow victory and highlighted party divisions.

Election of 1884

Grover Cleveland ran against James G. Blaine, focusing on their contrasting characters. Cleveland's past scandals were highlighted, but he still won the election. Notable for its focus on personal character rather than policy issues.

Election of 1888

Benjamin Harrison defeated incumbent Grover Cleveland amid high tariff debates. Marked the first time in 28 years that a president lost re-election after winning the popular vote. Tariff issues dominated the campaign, illustrating deep political divides.

Election of 1892

Grover Cleveland returned to win against Harrison and Populist candidate James Weaver. First election where a former president reclaimed the presidency. Demonstrated the growing influence of third-party movements like the Populists.

Plunkitt & “Honest Graft”

George Washington Plunkitt was a political figure known for his corrupt practices. Advocated for "honest graft," a way to profit from political opportunities legally. Muddied the lines between ethical and unethical behavior in politics.

Credit Mobilier Scandal

A railway construction company involved in bribing politicians to secure contracts. Highlighted rampant corruption during the Grant administration. Led to a loss of public trust in the government and calls for reform.

Whiskey Ring

A scandal involving government officials and distillers who defrauded the government of tax revenues. It exposed high-level corruption within Grant's administration. Led to the conviction of several officials but reflected widespread political corruption.

The Gilded Age

A term coined by Mark Twain to describe the superficial prosperity of the era. Characterized by extreme wealth inequality and political corruption. Marked a period of rapid industrialization and urbanization.

Pendleton Act

A federal law established in 1883 to reform civil service jobs. Introduced a merit-based system for government employment. Aimed to reduce corruption associated with the patronage system.

"Solid South"

A political term describing the dominance of the Democratic Party in the Southern states after Reconstruction. Reflects the region's unified opposition to Republican policies and candidates. Showed deep social and racial divides in U.S. politics of the era.

Waving the Bloody Shirt

A political strategy used by Republicans to remind voters of the Civil War. Aimed to associate Democratic Party with traitors and the Confederacy. Served to rally Union veterans and their supporters in elections.

Rum, Romanism & Rebellion

A phrase used by Republican candidate James G. Blaine in his campaign. Criticized the Democratic Party's support from Catholic immigrants. Highlighted cultural and religious divides in American politics.

Characteristics of 2 Major Political Parties

Democrats: Historically supported agrarian interests, states' rights, and opposed high tariffs. Republicans: Advocated for business interests, federal power, and protective tariffs. Both parties evolved over time, often shifting their platforms based on social issues.

Trust

A combination of companies that work to control market prices and limit competition. Often viewed negatively as they undermine free market principles. Played a significant role in the monopolization of industries during the Gilded Age.

Pool

An informal agreement among companies to fix prices or control market competition. Often used to maximize profits while limiting competition. Tends to lead to higher prices and reduced competition.

Rebate

A discount or refund given to consumers as an incentive to buy in bulk or frequently. Commonly used by railroads to attract large customers and secure business. Can create unfair competitive advantages in markets.

Stock, Stockholder

Stock: Equity in a company, representing ownership shares. Stockholder: An individual or entity owning shares in a corporation, entitled to dividends. Stocks can increase in value, providing financial returns to stockholders.

Monopoly

A market structure where a single company has exclusive control over an entire industry. Often results in higher prices and less choice for consumers. Prompted significant regulatory responses, like the Sherman Antitrust Act.

Corporation

A legal entity separate from its owners that can own assets, sue, or be sued. Shares of ownership are sold to raise capital, allowing for business expansion. Corporations have limited liability, protecting owners' personal assets.

Capital

Financial assets used for investment in business and economic growth. Essential for funding new projects, hiring workers, and expanding operations. Can represent both cash and tangible assets like buildings or machinery.

Laissez-faire

An economic philosophy advocating minimal government intervention in markets. Encourages free markets and competition to drive economic growth. Reflects the belief that supply and demand should dictate the economy.

Vertical & Horizontal Integration

Vertical Integration: Acquiring companies at different stages of production to control the supply chain. Horizontal Integration: Merging with or acquiring competitors to increase market share. Both strategies were used by industrialists to consolidate power and reduce competition.

Bessemer Process

An efficient method for producing steel by blowing air through molten iron. Revolutionized steel manufacturing, reducing costs and improving quality. Facilitated industrial expansion by making steel more affordable for construction.

Transcontinental Railroad

A railway system that connected the eastern U.S. with the Pacific Coast. Facilitated commerce, travel, and communication across vast distances. Played a vital role in westward expansion and economic growth.

Promontory Point

The location in Utah where the First Transcontinental Railroad was completed in 1869. Symbolized the link between the eastern and western United States. Marked a significant milestone in American infrastructure development.

Standard Gauge

A uniform railway track width adopted to facilitate efficient train operations. Allowed for interoperability between different rail companies and routes. Played a crucial role in the growth of the national rail system.

Standard Oil

A large oil refining corporation founded by John D. Rockefeller. Dominated the oil industry and became a symbol of corporate monopolies. Faced antitrust actions leading to its breakup in 1911.

United States Steel

One of the first billion-dollar corporations formed by merging several steel companies. Significant player in the steel industry and industrial growth in America. Represented the consolidation of industries during the Gilded Age.

Mail-order Store

Retail businesses that sell products through catalogs, allowing remote purchases. Became popular in the late 19th century, offering goods to rural customers. Revolutionized shopping by expanding access to a wide variety of products.

Department Stores – “Buyers’ Palaces”

Large retail establishments that provided a wide range of goods under one roof. Enhanced consumer shopping experiences with various departments and displays. Reflected changing consumer habits and urban growth.

Stewarts - Cast Iron Palace

A famous department store in New York known for its unique architecture. Offered a variety of goods, setting a standard for urban retail environments. Symbolized the opulence and grandeur of commercial enterprises during the era.

Gospel of Wealth

A philosophy promoted by Andrew Carnegie emphasizing the responsibility of the wealthy. Advocated for philanthropic initiatives to benefit society and improve lives. Encouraged the rich to use their wealth for public good rather than personal gain.

Social Darwinism

A belief that applied Darwin's theories of natural selection to human societies. Justified economic inequality by suggesting that the "fittest" thrive in society. Used to rationalize policies against welfare and labor rights.

Interstate Commerce Act

A federal law passed in 1887 to regulate railroads and ensure fair rates. Established the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC) to oversee compliance. Aimed to curb monopolistic practices and protect consumers.

Sherman Antitrust Act

The first federal law aimed at preventing anti-competitive practices and monopolies. Sought to promote fair competition in business. Enforced against companies engaging in anti-trust practices.

Munn v Illinois

A Supreme Court case that upheld the right of states to regulate private industries. Affirmed the government’s authority to oversee businesses for public good. Set a precedent for state regulation of railroads and transportation.

Wabash Case

A Supreme Court decision that limited state regulation of interstate commerce. Challenged the power of states to control railroad rates. Led to greater federal control over commerce and the creation of the ICC.

US v. E.C. Knight & Co.

A Supreme Court case that ruled the federal government couldn't regulate manufacturing. Limited the scope of the Sherman Antitrust Act regarding monopolies. Reflected the complex relationship between business practices and government regulation.

Panic of 1873

An economic crisis triggered by the failure of a major bank and extensive railroad investments. Resulted in widespread business failures and high unemployment rates. Highlighted the vulnerabilities of the U.S. economy during rapid industrialization.

Immigrants

People who move to a new country seeking better opportunities or escaping hardship. Contributed significantly to America’s labor force and cultural diversity. Often faced challenges and discrimination in a new land.

Tenements

Overcrowded apartment buildings that housed many urban immigrants in poor conditions. Often lacked adequate sanitation, ventilation, and space. Illustrated the housing challenges of the urban poor during the Gilded Age.

Nativism

A political ideology favoring the interests of native-born citizens over immigrants. Stemmed from fears that immigrants would take jobs and change the culture. Led to discriminatory laws and sentiments against immigrant populations.

Chinese Exclusion Act

A federal law passed in 1882 prohibiting Chinese labor immigration to the U.S. Represented the peak of nativist sentiment against Asian immigrants. Reflected broader fears over competition and cultural differences.

Gentlemen’s Agreement

An informal agreement between the U.S. and Japan to limit Japanese immigration. Aimed to ease racial tensions on the West Coast. Illustrated the complexities of immigration policy during the period.

Cities

Urban areas that grew rapidly due to industrialization and migration. Became centers of commerce, culture, and diverse populations. Faced significant challenges, including overcrowding and political corruption.

Political Machines

Organized groups that controlled political parties, especially in urban areas. Often used patronage and corruption to maintain power and influence. Played a significant role in local and national politics during this era.

Hull House

A settlement house founded by Jane Addams to assist immigrants and low-income families. Offered educational programs, childcare, and cultural activities. Aimed to improve the social conditions in urban neighborhoods.

Bland-Allison Act

A law passed in 1878 requiring the U.S. to purchase and coin silver. Intended to increase the money supply and support hard-money advocates. Highlighted the conflict between different monetary policies.

Spoils System, Civil Service Reform

Spoils System: The practice of appointing loyal party supporters to government jobs. Civil Service Reform aimed to establish merit-based hiring practices. Led to the Pendleton Act, which sought to reduce political corruption.

Tariff Issue, McKinley Tariff

Tariff Issue: Debates over import tariffs that impacted industries and consumers. McKinley Tariff of 1890 raised tariffs significantly to protect American industries. Sparked controversy and discontent among consumers and workers.

Billion Dollar Congress

Refers to the Republican-controlled 51st Congress known for its high spending. Characterized by significant spending on infrastructure and military. Marked a shift in federal government spending habits during the Gilded Age.

John D. Rockefeller

Founder of Standard Oil and one of the wealthiest individuals in American history. Dominated the oil industry through aggressive business tactics and monopolistic strategies. Became a major philanthropist, supporting various charitable causes.

J.P. Morgan

A powerful banker and financier who played a key role in industrial consolidations. Known for his ability to stabilize the economy during financial crises. Helped create significant corporations, including U.S. Steel.

Andrew Carnegie

A steel magnate and philanthropist who promoted the "Gospel of Wealth." Advocated for using wealth for societal improvement and building libraries and schools. His business model emphasized efficiency and innovation in the steel industry.

George H. Bissell

An oil industry pioneer who promoted the extraction and use of petroleum. Played a key role in establishing the oil industry in the U.S. Contributed to the development of the oil drilling technology.

Edwin L. Drake

The first person to successfully drill for oil using a steam engine. Pioneered the oil boom in Pennsylvania, leading to the establishment of the oil industry. His innovation opened the door for large-scale oil extraction.

A. Montgomery Ward

A retail pioneer who founded one of the first mail-order businesses in the U.S. Helped rural consumers access a wide variety of products through catalogs. Revolutionized retail practices by making shopping more accessible.

Richard Sears

Co-founder of Sears, Roebuck and Company, a major mail-order retailer. Popularized the use of catalogs for consumer goods in late 19th-century America. Influential in shaping retail and consumer culture.

William Sellers

An inventor known for creating the standard screw thread used in machinery. His innovations greatly influenced engineering and manufacturing practices. Contributed to the efficiency and standardization of industrial production.

Frederick W. Taylor

Considered the father of scientific management for improving workplace efficiency. Introduced time-and-motion studies to optimize production processes. His principles transformed industrial management and labor practices.

Thomas Alva Edison

Inventor known for developing the electric light bulb and phonograph. Founded General Electric and laid the groundwork for modern electrical engineering. Established research labs that fostered innovation and technology development.

Herbert Spencer

A philosopher who applied Darwin's ideas of evolution to social and economic theory. Advocated Social Darwinism, justifying social inequality as natural. Influenced public policy and thinking about economics and social hierarchy.

Jane Addams

Social reformer and co-founder of Hull House aimed at assisting immigrants. Advocated for women’s rights, labor reform, and peace initiatives. A prominent figure in the settlement house movement, promoting social change.

Jacob Riis – How the Other Half Lives

Journalist and photographer who exposed the living conditions of the urban poor. His book highlighted poverty and social issues, raising public awareness. Pushed for reforms in housing and urban living standards.

Mark Twain

Renowned author and social commentator known for his novels about American life. Coined the term “Gilded Age” to critique societal excess and corruption. Explored themes of race, identity, and morality in his works.

Theodore Dreiser

Author of novels focused on social issues and realistic portrayals of life. Known for "Sister Carrie," which discussed the struggles of the individual. Helped shape the naturalist literary movement in America.

Horatio Alger

Author known for writing "rags-to-riches" stories promoting perseverance. His works inspired many with the message of self-made success. Reflected American ideals of hard work and moral integrity.

Anti-Saloon League

An organization that advocated for the prohibition of alcohol in the U.S. Played a major role in the temperance movement leading to Prohibition. Focused on political activism and reform against alcohol consumption.

WCTU – Women’s Christian Temperance Union

A women's organization that promoted temperance and social reforms. Advocated for women’s rights and education, alongside prohibition. Instrumental in the movement toward national prohibition laws.

Frances Willard

A prominent leader of the WCTU and advocate for women's rights. Played a key role in pushing for prohibition and women’s suffrage. Known for her speeches and writings promoting social reform.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton

A leading figure in the women's suffrage movement and advocate for women's rights. Co-organized the Seneca Falls Convention to demand women's equality. Authored influential documents promoting women's rights and social change.

Susan B. Anthony

A key leader in the women's suffrage movement and social reformer. Co-founded the National Woman Suffrage Association advocating for voting rights. Dedicated her life to civil rights and women's equality.

“New” Immigration

Refers to the wave of immigrants from Eastern and Southern Europe in the late 19th century. Brought diverse languages, cultures, and religions to American society. Led to social tensions and changing demographics in U.S. cities.

Salvation Army

A charitable organization that provides social services and spiritual guidance. Focused on assisting the poor and disadvantaged through various programs. Known for its humanitarian efforts and community involvement.

Mary Baker Eddy

Founder of the Church of Christ, Scientist, known for her healing philosophies. Authored "Science and Health," promoting spiritual understanding of healing. Influential in establishing a religious movement focused on metaphysical healing.

Chautauqua Movement

An adult education and social movement aimed at cultural enrichment and lifelong learning. Provided lectures, educational courses, and entertainment for rural populations. Promoted civic engagement and cultural appreciation among participants.

Norris, The Octopus

A novel by Frank Norris critiquing the power of monopolies and railroads. Explores themes of greed and the struggles of workers against large corporations. Reflects the economic challenges of the Gilded Age.

Frank Lloyd Wright

Revolutionary architect known for his unique and organic architectural designs. Promoted harmony between buildings and their environment. Designed iconic structures like Fallingwater and the Guggenheim Museum.

Rutherford B. Hayes

The 19th President of the U.S., known for ending Reconstruction. Advocated for civil service reform and economic modernization. Promoted the idea of a "new" Republican Party focused on moderation.

James A. Garfield

The 20th President of the U.S. known for his emphasis on civil service reform. Assassinated shortly after taking office, highlighting political violence. Advocated for a merit-based system in government appointments.

Chester A. Arthur

The 21st President of the U.S. who supported civil service reform. Known for signing the Pendleton Act, promoting merit-based government jobs. Initially seen as a Stalwart, he surprised many with his reform efforts.

Grover Cleveland

The only U.S. President to serve two non-consecutive terms. Focused on reducing government corruption and reforming tariffs. Known for his commitment to principles over party politics.

Roscoe Conkling

A powerful Republican Senator known for his influence in New York politics. Leader of the Stalwart faction, promoting patronage and traditional party values. Became a prominent figure in 19th-century political controversies.

James G. Blaine

An influential Republican politician known for his role in the 1884 election. Promoted policies favoring business interests and economic development. His candidacy was marred by allegations of corruption and scandal.