Post-Civil War Reconstruction, Industrialization, and Gilded Age Politics

What was the status of freed African Americans after the Civil War?

Freed but not equal; they faced racism and often worked for previous owners.

How did black churches and schools contribute to the African American community post-emancipation?

They connected black people in the South and provided education to those previously forbidden from learning.

What was the purpose of the Union League?

To influence both black and white citizens to join the Republican Party to ratify the 15th Amendment and help freedmen register to vote.

What role did African Americans play in politics after the Civil War?

Participation in the military taught leadership and literacy, leading to the election of 600 black legislators and representatives.

What economic system forced freedpeople into a cycle of debt?

Sharecropping, where black workers rented land from white owners in exchange for a share of the crop.

What were Bonanza Farms?

Giant corporate-owned farms that were highly profitable and worked by seasonal laborers.

What technological innovations increased in America after the Civil War?

Inventions like Bell's telephone, typewriters, and sewing machines, which created clerical and seamstress jobs for women.

Who was Thomas Edison and what were some of his inventions?

An inventor who created the light bulb, phonograph, stock ticker, and founded over 100 companies.

What was George Westinghouse known for?

Creating Alternating Current (AC) and perfecting Tesla's AC motor to compete with Edison's Direct Current (DC).

How did railroads impact American society?

They created uniform time zones, connected telegraph lines, stimulated the economy, and encouraged western immigration.

What was the Pacific Railway Act?

Legislation that authorized the construction of railroads between the Union Pacific and Central Pacific.

Who were the '*******' in the context of railroad construction?

Chinese railway workers who sought to earn money to send back to China.

What challenges did Mexican Americans face in the railroad industry?

They were paid less than Irish workers and replaced Chinese workers who had quit.

What was a significant downside of the railroad boom?

Overbuilding led to bankruptcies and accelerated the displacement of Native Americans.

How did corporations grow during this period?

They sold stock to establish themselves, allowing shareholders to elect a board of directors.

What was the goal of John D. Rockefeller's Standard Oil Company?

To achieve a monopoly by buying out competitors and controlling the oil industry.

What was Andrew Carnegie's contribution to the steel industry?

He focused on continuous innovation and the Bessemer process to produce steel efficiently.

What was J. Pierpont Morgan's role in American business?

He helped merge companies and controlled a significant portion of U.S. railways and industries.

How did Sears and Roebuck change consumer habits?

They provided a mail catalog that allowed rural Americans to purchase a wide range of products.

What was the 'Gospel of Wealth'?

The belief among wealthy industrialists that they had a responsibility to use their wealth for the greater good.

What was the impact of tariffs during the post-Civil War period?

They raised money for the government and benefited businesses but burdened farmers with higher costs.

What was the Homestead Act of 1862?

Legislation that provided 160 acres of free land to male citizens, widows, single women, and formerly enslaved people.

What does 'laissez-faire' mean in the context of the economy?

A hands-off approach by the government, allowing businesses to operate without regulation.

How did the Gilded Age reflect social changes?

It highlighted the growing gap between the rich and poor, with the wealthy flaunting their status.

What was the role of women in the growing middle class during this period?

Unmarried women held full-time jobs, reflecting access to education and a shift in societal roles.

Who was Jane Addams and what did she advocate for?

A college graduate who founded Hull House to help immigrants assimilate and encouraged women to enter the workforce.

What was the purpose of magazines like 'Ladies Home Journal'?

To promote traditional roles for women and discourage equality.