Ap us

Railroads and the national market:  

Who: Larger businessmen and businesses fuelled by government money and created the railroads. Chinese immigrants were the primary workers on the railroads, which led to racial discrimination. (when the USA needs labor, they encourage immigrants to join in, but when in a time of plenty, there is no need for them)

What: through government subsidies to railroad companies, westward expansion occurred with the expansion of the railroads. The construction of western railroads refers to the expansion of the railroad network across the western United States. the completion of the First Transcontinental Railroad connected the existing eastern railroads with the western states and territories. 

Where: primarily in the western United States.

When: The Gilded Age

Why: These railroads were pivotal in driving economic growth by facilitating the efficient transportation of goods, people, and resources, fostering industrialization, and the expansion of agriculture and mining in the western states. They allowed for population growth in the west and the development of new cities along the railroad tracks. They connected the nation by linking the East Coast to the West Coast and reducing travel time. However, their construction was accompanied by corporate power and corruption, as railroad tycoons wielded significant influence, and the era saw the rise of monopolistic control. 

Bonanza farms: 

Who: Wealthy investors and large-scale agricultural businesses, often backed by Eastern capitalists and land speculators. These farms were typically owned by companies rather than individual family farmers. Laborers on these farms included immigrants (such as Scandinavians and Germans), tenant farmers, and seasonal workers.

What: Bonanza farms were large-scale, mechanized wheat farms that emerged in the Great Plains. They used advanced farming technology, such as mechanical reapers and steam-powered threshers, to produce massive amounts of grain for national and international markets. These farms emphasized efficiency, monoculture (primarily wheat), and corporate-style management. However, their dependence on favorable economic conditions made them vulnerable to market fluctuations.

Where: Primarily in the northern Great Plains, especially in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and parts of Nebraska and Kansas.

When: Late 19th century, particularly during the Gilded Age (1870s–1900s).

Why: The expansion of railroads, government land grants, and the Homestead Act made large-scale agriculture profitable. Bonanza farms contributed to the agricultural boom but also led to economic instability. Overproduction caused falling wheat prices, and as soil depletion and droughts increased, many bonanza farms collapsed by the early 20th century. They also highlighted the growing divide between industrialized, capital-intensive agriculture and small family farms, foreshadowing modern agribusiness.

Western industries: 

Who: Entrepreneurs, corporations, immigrant laborers (including Chinese, Irish, and Mexican workers), and settlers seeking economic opportunities. The government also played a role by providing subsidies and incentives for industrial expansion.

What: The industries that dominated the western economy included:

• Mining: Gold, silver, and copper mining were major economic drivers, leading to boomtowns and significant migration. Large companies replaced individual prospectors as mining became industrialized.

• Cattle Ranching: The expansion of cattle ranching was fueled by the demand for beef in eastern markets, leading to the rise of cowboys, cattle drives, and conflicts over land use (such as range wars between ranchers and farmers).

• Timber Industry: The growth of railroads and urbanization increased the demand for lumber, leading to extensive logging operations in the Pacific Northwest.

• Meatpacking & Processing: The connection between western ranching and eastern cities led to the rise of meatpacking centers like Chicago, supported by refrigerated railcars.

Where: Spread across the western United States, with specific hubs such as California (gold mining), Colorado and Nevada (silver mining), Texas and Kansas (cattle ranching), and the Pacific Northwest (logging).

When: The Gilded Age and early 20th century (1870s–1900s).

Why: Industrial expansion was driven by resource availability, new transportation networks (especially railroads), and increasing demand for raw materials and food in eastern cities. However, these industries also led to economic inequality, environmental destruction, and labor conflicts. The exploitation of immigrant workers, indigenous displacement, and corporate monopolies in mining and ranching illustrated the broader themes of industrial capitalism and western development.

Jorgenson Family (Foner doc.): 

Who: a Danish family unit of homesteaders that detailed their experiences of moving west

What: their relocation to a Danish homestead settlement shows their continued holding on to Danish culture and traditions, especially the language. The account shows the perspective of the father and son as they moved to Montana. While the son saw the land as magical and that he could become a cowboy, the father saw it as an opportunity for freedom with land ownership. 

Where: Montana

When: 1908

Why: they represented many other homesteaders who went through similar experiences to move west. 

Wounded Knee Massacre:

Who: The U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry and Lakota Sioux, including men, women, and children. The Ghost Dance movement, led by spiritual leaders like Wovoka, played a role in the events leading up to the massacre.

What: A brutal massacre in which U.S. soldiers killed approximately 250–300 Lakota Sioux, including many unarmed women and children, after attempting to disarm them. The event marked the violent suppression of Native American resistance and the end of large-scale armed conflicts between Native Americans and the U.S. government.

Where: Wounded Knee Creek, South Dakota, on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

When: December 29, 1890.

Why: Rising tensions between the U.S. government and Native Americans, particularly due to the suppression of the Ghost Dance movement, a spiritual revival among the Lakota that whites saw as a sign of rebellion. The massacre symbolized the end of Native American autonomy and the devastating effects of U.S. expansionism. It reinforced U.S. policies of forced assimilation, land dispossession, and military dominance over indigenous peoples.

Battle of Little Bighorn:

Who: also known as Custer's Last Stand, led by Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer, and a combined force of Lakota Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho Native American tribes. 

What: It was a significant conflict during the larger context of the Great Sioux War of 1876-77, which was part of the Indian Wars on the American frontier.

Where:Montana (Little Bighorn)

When:the gilded age

Why:holds profound significance in American history as a symbol of Native American resistance against westward expansion during the Gilded Age. The decisive victory of Lakota Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes over the US marked a rare triumph for indigenous forces. While it signaled a momentary setback for the U.S. military, leading to a reevaluation of tactics in the Great Sioux War, the broader impact was the intensification of government efforts to suppress Native American resistance. 

Chief Joseph (Foner doc.):

Who: the leader of the Nez Perce Indians 

What: he delivered a speech in Washington concerning the discriminatory treatment that white people continued to use against natives. He used the speech to appeal to the American ideal of freedom and liberty. One of the main points of the speech was that the Americans continued to speak of the progress that would occur without taking any action to ensure said progress. He delivered the speech in his native language, a symbol to the Americans who advocated for native assimilation that culture is eternal. 

Where: Lincoln Hall

When: Gilded Age

Why: he made a speech in the hall named for Lincoln, so the significant connection between the two traditionally discriminated against groups shows the significantly hypocritical attitudes of Americans. 

Henry Grady (Gospel of the New South) :

Who: delivered by Henry Grady

What: In his speech, Grady outlined his vision for the economic and social revitalization of the Southern United States following the Civil War and Reconstruction period. He advocated for industrialization, agricultural diversification, and reconciliation between the North and the South.

Where: New England Society's annual dinner in New York City.

When: The Gilded Age

Why: it encapsulated the South's efforts to move beyond the devastation of the Civil War and Reconstruction. Grady's vision emphasized economic progress through industrialization and agricultural reform, seeking to shift the South away from its reliance on agriculture and towards a more diversified and prosperous economy. Additionally, Grady's call for reconciliation between the North and South resonated with many Americans, contributing to efforts to heal the wounds of the Civil War and foster national unity.

crop lien system (also called crop-lien laws): 

Who: farmers and store owners

What: a credit system that emerged after the Civil War and continued through the Gilded Age. Under this system, farmers who lacked sufficient capital could obtain credit by using their future crops as collateral. Merchants, often local storekeepers or landlords, extended loans to farmers for seeds, tools, and other necessities, with the understanding that the crops grown would be used to repay the debt.

Where:widespread in agricultural regions across the south. 

When:gilded age

Why:While it provided a short-term solution for farmers to access necessary supplies, it often led to a cycle of debt and dependency. Farmers faced high interest rates and were sometimes charged exorbitant prices for goods, trapping them in a cycle of poverty. As a result, the crop lien system contributed to the economic challenges faced by small and tenant farmers during this period. It also played a role in the larger context of agrarian discontent that eventually led to the Populist movement as farmers sought to address their economic grievances 

Booker T. Washington (Atlanta Compromise): 

Who: a prominent civil rights leader in this time that advocated for African Americans to work within the system of racism instead of constant political agitation. 

What: he was known for his role in the Atlanta compromise, a speech delivered by him at the Cotton States and International Exposition in Atlanta. In his address, he advocated for African Americans to accept segregation and disenfranchisement temporarily while focusing on vocational and industrial education to attain economic independence and improve their social status. The idea was to emphasize practical skills and economic advancement over immediate political and social equality, aiming to gain the support of white Southern leaders.

Where: the south and Atlanta specifically 

When: gilded age

Why: he was a highly influential African American leader. He represented one of the popular reactions of black people to racism (resistance v. acceptance) with Dubois representing the other.  His emphasis on industrial training and accommodation with white political leaders was viewed by some as a pragmatic strategy to navigate the racially charged environment of the post-Reconstruction South. 

Williams v. Mississippi (1898):

Who: Henry Williams, an african american man, and the state of Mississippi

What: a supreme court case that upheld voting restrictions like the grandfather clauses, poll taxes. There was a debate over whether these went against the 15th amendment. It was determined that the measures were not discriminatory because they applied equally to white and black people. 

Where: across the country

When: gilded age

Why: it was the second court case that was undoing reconstruction with the first being plessy. Upheld the state's discriminatory practices, effectively endorsing the suppression of African American voting rights. This ruling set a precedent that allowed other Southern states to continue implementing similar voter suppression tactics, contributing to the disenfranchisement of African Americans for decades to come. The decision marked a significant setback for civil rights during the Gilded Age and reinforced the systemic racism prevalent in American society at the time. It wasn't until the Civil Rights Movement of the mid-20th century that significant strides were made towards dismantling these discriminatory barriers to voting rights.

vertical versus horizontal integration: 

Who:

- **Vertical Integration: Andrew Carnegie. Carnegie dominated the steel industry through his company, Carnegie Steel. 

Horizontal Integration:** John D. Rockefeller. Rockefeller's Standard Oil Company used horizontal integration to dominate the oil industry by acquiring or eliminating competitors in the same stage of production. 

What:

- Vertical Integration: This strategy involves controlling all aspects of the production process within a single industry. In the case of Andrew Carnegie and steel, this meant owning iron ore mines, coal mines, transportation infrastructure, and steel mills.

- Horizontal Integration: This strategy involves acquiring or merging with competitors in the same industry to achieve a dominant position. In the case of John D. Rockefeller and Standard Oil, this involved acquiring competing oil refineries to create a near-monopoly in the oil industry.This involved controlling or buying out competing oil refineries.

After driving competitors to the brink of failure through predatory pricing, he invited them to merge their local companies into his conglomerate. 

Where:

- across the United States

When:

- The Gilded Age, as mentioned earlier, roughly spanned from the 1870s to the early 1900s. The peak of vertical and horizontal integration occurred during this time as industrialization and economic growth transformed various sectors.

Significance:

- Vertical Integration:monopolies were prevalent The significance of vertical integration was that it allowed companies to control every step of the production process, leading to increased efficiency and reduced costs. Companies like Carnegie Steel benefited from vertical integration by streamlining operations and maximizing profits.

- Horizontal Integration: The significance of horizontal integration was the consolidation of market power. Through mergers and acquisitions, companies like Standard Oil eliminated competition, gained significant market share, and often established monopolies. This led to concerns about anti-competitive practices and eventually contributed to the development of antitrust legislation to regulate such business practices. The Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 was a response to the growing power of monopolistic corporations during this era.the combination of these two caused a change in the conduct of business with the two distinct methods 

Sherman Antitrust Act (1890): 

Who: the United States and big businesses

What: the first federal legislation in the United States that aimed to curb monopolistic practices and promote fair competition in business. The act declared illegal any "combination, in the form of trusts or otherwise, or conspiracy, in restraint of trade or commerce among the several states, or with foreign nations." Essentially, it sought to prevent anticompetitive practices that limited competition and harmed consumers.

Where:usa

When: 189099

Why:marked a significant shift in U.S. economic policy by acknowledging the government's role in regulating business practices to ensure fair competition. The act aimed to prevent the abuse of economic power, protect consumers from unfair business practices, and promote a more competitive marketplace. While the Sherman Antitrust Act seems progressive it was somewhat vague, allowing businesses to easily find loopholes to work around it.  It laid the foundation for subsequent antitrust legislation and became a cornerstone of U.S. antitrust law. 

John D. Rockefeller: 

Who: John D. Rockefeller was an American business magnate and philanthropist became one of the wealthiest and most powerful individuals of his time

What: best known for his role in the oil industry. He founded the Standard Oil Company, which quickly dominated the oil refining and distribution business in the United States. Rockefeller was a key figure in the development of the oil industry, pioneering practices such as horizontal integration, monopolistic control, and trust formation. Often factory workers worked 16 hours a day under him.

Where: the usa but specifically pennsylvania and ohio

When:the gilded age

Why:His business practices, such as horizontal integration (controlling all aspects of production from extraction to distribution) and aggressive competition, led to the creation of a virtual monopoly. Rockefeller's wealth and influence made him a controversial figure, with critics citing the abuses of his business practices. In later years, he became a prominent philanthropist, donating a significant portion of his fortune to various causes, including education and public health.

Gospel of Wealth skyscraper:

Who: built by architects and engineers, immigrants were the primary ones using them

What: these buildings marked a shift from traditional low-rise construction to vertically oriented structures. The use of steel frames allowed for greater height, while the adoption of elevators facilitated accessibility to upper floors. These buildings took from capital goods

Where: Chicago and New York were the first cities to use them

When: Gilded Age

Why:they addressed the increasing demand for housing in rapidly growing urban areas. The use of steel frames, elevators, and curtain walls revolutionized building practices, allowing for taller and more efficient structures. Additionally, skyscrapers became symbols of economic prosperity and technological progress, reflecting the ambitions and achievements of the time.

describe hazardous labor conditions: 

Who: factory (or blue collar) workers

What: Workers faced long hours, low wages, lack of job security, and poor working conditions. The industrial processes of the time exposed workers to dangerous substances and environments. Common health hazards included exposure to toxic chemicals, inadequate ventilation, dangerous machinery, and physical strain. workers had limited access to healthcare, and occupational safety regulations were virtually nonexistent.  

Where:urban environments where factories were common

When:the gilded age

Why:Workers faced dire conditions and suffered from occupational illnesses and injuries. The lack of workers' rights and safety regulations led to frequent accidents and a high rate of workplace-related illnesses. The labor movement gained momentum during this period as workers organized to demand better working conditions, higher wages, and improved safety standards. 

Great Railroad Strike of 1877:

Who: those who worked in the railroad industry

What: the workers were Protesting steep wage cuts amid the depression in the strike, thousands of railroad workers walked off the job. The strike brought rail travel and commerce to a halt. Thousands of people poured into the streets of Buffalo, Pittsburgh, and Chicago to protest the economic injustice wrought by railroads. When Pennsylvania’s governor sent state militia to break the strike, Pittsburgh crowds reacted by burning railroad property and overturning locomotives. 

Where: pennsylvania

When: 1877

Why:The strike left more than fifty people dead and caused $40 million worth of damage. For their role in the strike, many railroad workers were fired and blacklisted. In the aftermath of the strike, the U.S. government created the National Guard, intended not to protect Americans against foreign invasion but to enforce order at home. The strike ultimately highlighted the plight of workers, their dissatisfaction with labor conditions, and the need for better rights and representation. While the strike itself did not achieve immediate success for the workers, it drew attention to the broader issues of workers' rights, setting the stage for the later labor movement and the eventual implementation of reforms to address the grievances of industrial workers in the United States.

Knights of Labor:

Who: In keeping with this broad-based vision, the order practiced open membership, irrespective of race, gender, or field of employment. It did not matter if you were a skilled or unskilled worker.  But they did not include Chinese laborers.

What: the Knights of Labor aimed to bring together workers from various trades and industries into a single, unified labor union. Knights believed that ordinary people needed control over the enterprises in which they worked. They proposed to set up shops owned by employees, transforming America into what they called a cooperative commonwealth. They demanded workplace safety laws, prohibition of child labor, a federal tax on the nation’s highest incomes, public ownership of telegraphs and railroads, and government recognition of workers’ right to organize. Following the incident at Haymarket square, leadership with the knights declined and people joined the AFL instead. 

Where:across the united states

When: the gilded age

Why: their emphasis on diversity and inclusion of a wide range of issues gave them a great amount of power and people who joined. Although this did make the organization rather decentralized, it allowed for them to help many groups of people. Often labor unions were vilified and seen as people being lazy; this organization worked against that narrative and for the workers. 

Pullman Strike new immigrants: 

Who: those who worked on the railroads

What: the strike was a result of layoffs and significant wage cuts at the pullman company of luxury supercars.  To show solidarity, The American Railway Union, led by Eugene V. Debs, striked also. The strikers gathered in Chicago and began protesting. Following a speech given by debs, the workers turned violent and began to destroy locomotives. This led to the military being called in by the president. 

Where: near chicago

When:gilded age

Why:The federal government's unprecedented intervention, of deploying troops to quell the strike, marked a turning point in labor-management relations, as it showcased the willingness of the government to use military force against striking workers to maintain industrial operations. 

Immigration Restriction League: 

Who: immigrants and members of the racist middle class

What: Primarily focused on advocating for the restriction and regulation of immigration to the United States. The organization sought to limit the influx of immigrants, particularly from Southern and Eastern Europe, as they believed that these groups posed a threat to the American way of life. They advocated for policies such as literacy tests which would bar all illiterate people from immigrating to the us. They were reminiscent of the “know nothings” in their beliefs and policies. 

Where: america

When: the gilded age

Why:reflects the nativist sentiments that were prevalent during the Gilded Age. The League's advocacy for immigration restrictions was part of a broader movement aimed at preserving what its members perceived as the "American" identity and culture. The league's efforts contributed to the eventual implementation of more restrictive immigration policies, including the Immigration Act of 1924, which introduced quotas based on national origin and significantly limited immigration from certain regions. 

City machines and "boss rule": 

Who: charismatic men that were trusted in their communities because they were so well known

What: a party organization, headed by a single boss or small autocratic group, that commands enough votes to maintain political and administrative control of a city, county, or state. The system worked so that election districts were divided into city blocks and each section had a “boss” at the head. The leader of these people were the aldermans and the leader of them was the mayor of the city. The immigrants that lived in the cities gave loyalty to the politicians in exchange for protection. (exp. If they couldn't make rent then they would go to one of these leaders and get help then they would give loyalty and votes to the politician in exchange) this allowed for politicians to extract millions of dollars from the city and even though a lot of that went to helping the citizens, it was considered corrupt. A prime example of this was the tweed ring where the leader, tweed, was seen as an urban Robinhood for his helping the immigrants and people of the city. 

Where:cities

When: the gilded age

Why:their ability to consolidate power and control through patronage, corruption, and strategic alliances. They often functioned as intermediaries between immigrant communities and city services, providing a sense of stability and assistance in exchange for political loyalty. While urban machines contributed to the development of infrastructure and social services, their practices also fueled corruption and cronyism. The Gilded Age urban machines thus represented a complex interplay between political power, socioeconomic dynamics, and the evolving nature of American cities during a period marked by both prosperity and inequality.

Social Gospel (Foner doc.): 

Who: introduced by Andrew Carnegie

What: The Gospel of Wealth was an essay written by Andrew Carnegie in 1889. In it, Carnegie argued that the wealthy had a moral obligation to use their wealth for the greater good of society. He believed that accumulating vast fortunes was inevitable in a capitalist society, but wealthy individuals should be responsible stewards of their wealth. Carnegie proposed that the rich should engage in philanthropy and actively contribute to charitable causes that benefit the less fortunate. He emphasized long-term effects, believing that giving handouts to poor people was not the way to help them; public institutions were.

Where: across the us

When: Gilded Age

Why: This notion represented a departure from the capitalism of the time, emphasizing the responsibility of the wealthy to engage in philanthropy actively. Carnegie's call for the rich to contribute to charitable causes set a precedent, influencing other wealthy individuals to follow suit. As a result, the Gospel of Wealth played a pivotal role in shaping American philanthropy’s landscape, with Carnegie becoming one of the era's most notable philanthropists. Beyond its immediate impact, the Gospel of Wealth contributed to ongoing debates on wealth distribution, sparking discussions about the ethical responsibilities of the wealthy and the potential benefits of targeted philanthropy. His belief that funding things like libraries and parks makes him 

Civil Service Act:

Who: Sponsored by Senator George H. Pendleton and signed into law by President Chester A. Arthur. It affected government workers and political leaders.

What: A law that established a merit-based system for hiring and promoting government employees, replacing the corrupt "spoils system," where political appointments were given as rewards for loyalty. The act created the Civil Service Commission to oversee fair hiring practices through competitive exams.

Where: Applied to federal government jobs across the United States.

When: Passed in 1883, during the Gilded Age.

Why: Passed in response to public outrage after the assassination of President James A. Garfield by a disappointed office seeker. The act aimed to curb political corruption by making government positions based on merit rather than political connections. It laid the foundation for modern civil service reform but initially only applied to a small percentage of jobs.

Homestead Act (1862):

Who: groups of homesteaders who were often families who moved to the West to get better lives and experience the wonders of the West

What: gave 160 acres of federal land to any applicant who occupied and improved the property. Republicans hoped the bill would help build up the interior West, which was inhabited by Indian peoples but remained “empty” on U.S. government survey maps. 

Where: the west

When: The Gilded Age

Why: One important thing about this time was the romanticization of the West, with many people believing it was a rough and tumble play with gun fights, horses, cowboys, and Indians. Media like Buffalo Bill's Wild West show contributed to this narrative. This legislation encouraged a wave of pioneers to move west, promoting agricultural development and settlement on the frontier. The act accelerated the transformation of the vast western territories into family farms, fostering economic growth and contributing to the overall expansion of the United States. It played a crucial role in shaping the nation's agricultural landscape and providing opportunities for individuals and families to establish new lives in the American West.

cattle kingdom mining in the West Kansas Exodus: 

Who: Cattle ranchers, cowboys (including Black, Mexican, and Native American cowboys), railroad companies, and meatpacking businesses.

What: The period when the cattle industry dominated the Great Plains, with long cattle drives and open-range ranching. Cattle were herded from Texas to railheads in Kansas and then shipped to eastern markets. The development of barbed wire and refrigerated railcars transformed the industry.

Where: Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Colorado, and Montana. Major cattle trails included the Chisholm Trail and the Goodnight-Loving Trail.

When: Peaked from the 1860s to the 1880s. Declined by the late 1880s due to overgrazing, harsh winters, and the spread of barbed wire fencing.

Why: The demand for beef in eastern cities and the expansion of railroads made large-scale cattle ranching profitable. However, the industry declined as the open range disappeared due to overgrazing, fencing, and changing market demands. The end of the Cattle Kingdom symbolized the transition from frontier life to more regulated, corporate-dominated industries.

Mining in the West

Who: Individual prospectors, large mining corporations, immigrant laborers (Chinese, Irish, Mexican, and Eastern European), and U.S. government officials.

What: The mining boom fueled western expansion, initially with gold and silver rushes, but later dominated by corporate mining operations extracting gold, silver, copper, and coal. Mining towns often turned into ghost towns when resources were depleted.

Where: California (Gold Rush), Nevada (Comstock Lode), Colorado, South Dakota, Montana, and Idaho.

When: Mid-to-late 19th century, peaking in the 1850s–1890s.

Why: The lure of gold and silver attracted thousands of settlers, contributing to economic growth, railroad expansion, and western settlement. However, mining also led to environmental destruction, conflicts with Native Americans, and labor exploitation. The rise of corporate mining displaced individual miners and led to significant labor unrest.

Kansas Exodus

Who: African Americans, particularly formerly enslaved people known as "Exodusters," led by figures like Benjamin "Pap" Singleton.

What: A mass migration of Black Americans from the South to Kansas in search of economic opportunities and freedom from racial violence and discrimination. Many settled in all-Black towns and worked as farmers or laborers.

Where: Primarily from southern states like Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas to Kansas, particularly in towns like Nicodemus.

When: 1879–1880, shortly after Reconstruction ended.

Why: Black Americans fled the South due to the rise of white supremacist violence (e.g., the Ku Klux Klan), the loss of political rights, and economic hardship under sharecropping. Kansas was seen as a land of opportunity, partly because of its history as a free state. However, many Exodusters struggled with poverty, land shortages, and discrimination even in Kansas.

Dawes Act: 

Who: the creator of this idea was Henry L Dawes

What: This act allowed the American government to break up native lands, which split up the tribes and tried to assimilate them. Through severalty — division of tribal lands — he hoped to force Indians onto individual landholdings, partitioning reservations into homesteads, just like those of white farmers. 

Where: former Indian reservations

When: The Gilded Age

Why: SCOTUS was often considered an advocate of the native Americans, but this decision marked a new era, where they were determining the citizenship of Natives on a case-by-case basis and breaking former treaties. Proponents believed this would encourage agricultural practices, individual land ownership, and assimilation into the agrarian economy. However, the Dawes Act had severe consequences, as it resulted in the loss of millions of acres of Native American land, cultural disruption, and economic hardships. Many Native Americans lost their ancestral territories, and the Act failed to achieve its intended goals, leading to further impoverishment and the erosion of tribal communities. 

Ghost Dance:

Who: Native Americans

What: represented an attempt of Native Americans in the western United States to rehabilitate their traditional cultures. The movement involved a dance ritual that was believed to connect the living with the spirits of the deceased and bring about a world where Native Americans could live free from the oppression of European settlers. Participants believed that through the Ghost Dance, they could achieve a spiritual transformation and gain protection from bullets.

Where: across native reservations

When: Gilded Age

Why: As European settlers encroached upon their lands, eroded their traditional way of life, and subjected them to systemic oppression, the Ghost Dance became a powerful expression of resistance and hope for a better future. This movement faced severe opposition from the U.S. government. Authorities perceived it as a potential threat and responded with repressive measures. Furthermore, the government's suppression of the Ghost Dance contributed to the implementation of policies that further marginalized Native American communities, restricting their cultural practices.

Native American Boarding Schools:

Who: Native children. These were primarily run by the federal government and various Christian denominations, who advocated for the assimilation of Native Americans into mainstream American culture.

What: schools were institutions created with the intention of assimilating Native American children into Euro-American culture. The focus of these schools was on eradicating indigenous languages, traditions, and customs and replacing them with Western ways of life. Students at these schools were often forced to cut their hair, wear Western-style clothing, and adopt Christianity. The curriculum emphasized vocational and industrial training to prepare Native Americans for jobs in mainstream American society. knock the Indian out of them

Where: across the US

When: began in the Gilded Age

Why: The forced assimilation practices led to the loss of native languages, cultural practices, and traditional ways of life. Many students experienced cultural trauma.

sharecropping: 

Who: Primarily poor African Americans and wealthy white landowners/farmers

What: an agricultural labor system that emerged post-Civil War. In this arrangement, landless farmers and freed slaves worked on a landowner's farm in exchange for a share of the crops they produced. Typically, the landowner provided the land, seed, tools, and sometimes housing, while the sharecropper contributed the labor. Many fell victim to the crop-lien system.

Where: the southern us

When: Gilded Age

Why:While it provided a way for former slaves to earn a living and gain some independence, it also perpetuated a cycle of poverty. The system often left sharecroppers in debt to landowners, and due to various factors such as economic fluctuations, crop prices, and discriminatory practices, many sharecroppers struggled to break free from poverty. Sharecropping is considered a continuation of some of the exploitative aspects of the plantation system, reinforcing racial and economic disparities in the South. 

Ida B. Wells:

Who: Ida B. Wells was an African American journalist, newspaper editor, suffragist, and early civil rights leader.

What:she was investigative journalist and anti-lynching activist. She wrote extensively about racial injustice, focusing on lynching in the Southern United States. her most significant works was the pamphlet "Southern Horrors: Lynch Law in All Its Phases" (1892), which exposed the brutal reality of lynching and challenged the racist narratives of the time.

Where: the south

When:the gilded age

Why:Wells was a trailblazer in the fight against racial injustice and a pioneering investigative journalist. Her reporting on lynching drew attention to the horrors of racial violence and helped raise awareness about civil rights and social justice. She co-founded the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and was an early advocate for women's suffrage. Wells left a lasting legacy as a courageous and influential figure in the struggle for civil rights and equality.

Plessy v. Ferguson (1896):

Who: the Supreme Court and African Americans 

What: leading up to this case, the court invalidated the civil rights act of 1875 (which outlawed racial discrimination by hotels, theaters, railroads, and other public facilities) their reasoning was that the 14th amendment prohibited unequal treatment by startle authorities, not private businesses. This case allowed businesses to have “separate but equal” sections based on racial separation. It originated in Louisiana where the legislature had required separate facilities for black and white people. When Homer Plessy, a black man, refused to move he was arrested and later sued and lost.

Where: the usa

When:gilded age

Why:this decision had far-reaching consequences as it provided legal justification for the institutionalization of racial segregation in various aspects of public life, particularly in the South, and paved the way for discriminatory practices for several decades. The facilities were almost never equal but were always separate. This signified the undoing of reconstruction

lynching (in the context of the New South):

Who: black and white people

What: involved the brutal and public execution of individuals without a legal trial. The methods varied and were often characterized by extreme violence. Victims were often accused of crimes or transgressions, real or perceived, and their lynching served as a means of racial and social control. This horrific practice was often carried out by mobs, sometimes with the participation or tacit approval of local authorities.

Where: predominantly in the south

When:the gilded age

Why:was a tool used to enforce racial segregation, maintain white supremacy, and intimidate African Americans. It was part of a broader system of racial violence and discrimination that persisted for decades. The significance lies in its contribution to the perpetuation of racial injustice, the undermining of civil rights, and the creation of a culture of fear and inequality. The legacy of lynching during the Gilded Age continues to impact discussions on race, justice, and equality in the United States. 

trusts/holding:

Who: included people like JP Morgan, Andrew Carnegie, and John D Rockefeller 

What: an agreement made between multiple companies within the same industry in which they decide to not compete. This could be through the standardization of prices so then the consumer did not have cheaper options. This is meant to maximize profits and benefit the owners not the consumers. The term "trust" itself refers to the practice of consolidating multiple companies under a single board of trustees who would manage the operations of all the companies involved. These trusts were often used to eliminate competition, control prices, and maximize profits.

Where: the US

When: The Gilded Age

Why: Their emergence led to the concentration of economic power, triggering concerns about monopolistic practices and prompting the introduction of antitrust legislation, notably the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890. The influence of trusts on the economy, coupled with their often harsh treatment of workers, fueled the labor movement and highlighted the broader issues of wealth inequality.

companies/pools robber barons: 

Who: Various industrialists, entrepreneurs, and financiers were involved in creating and managing these companies and pools. Prominent figures include John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie, 

What: They were cooperative agreements among competing firms within an industry. These agreements aimed to stabilize prices, allocate market share, and coordinate production levels. For example, railroad pools were formed to divide traffic and manage schedules among competing railroads, reducing competition and ensuring stable profits for participants. They operated primarily in industries such as oil, steel, railroads, finance, and manufacturing. 

Where:concentrated in urban areas

When: the gilded age

Why:Standard Oil, under Rockefeller's leadership, attained near-total control over oil refining, while Carnegie's steel empire revolutionized the industry. Railroad pools, arrangements between competing railroads, dictated transportation routes and rates, shaping commerce nationwide. Strategies like vertical integration, employed by companies such as Carnegie Steel and Standard Oil, allowed unprecedented economies of scale and market dominance. Yet, this concentration of wealth and power sparked significant social and labor unrest, ultimately leading to the passage of antitrust legislation like the Sherman Antitrust Act in 1890. The legacy of these companies and pools defines the Gilded Age, marked by both remarkable economic growth. This was considered a common practice of “robber barons” 

Andrew Carnegie:

Who: A Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist

What: He was primarily involved in the steel industry. He started his career as a bobbin boy in a cotton factory and later worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad. Carnegie eventually entered the steel business, founding the Carnegie Steel Company. he was a key figure in the expansion of the American steel industry and the development of steel production techniques. His company became one of the largest and most successful steel producers in the United States, employing innovative methods to increase efficiency and reduce costs. He created the gospel of wealth

Where: his business was based in Pennsylvania

When: Gilded Age

Why: one of the wealthiest individuals of his time. His business practices led to the consolidation of the American steel industry. In the latter part of his life, he devoted himself to giving away his wealth to support various causes, including education, libraries, and world peace. While Carnegie's contributions to industry and philanthropy are widely recognized, his legacy is also debated. Some view him as a benevolent philanthropist who sought to improve society, while others criticize his business practices, including labor issues and his role in the Homestead Strike. He purposefully resented the belief in social Darwinism that dominated his time. 

Social Darwinism tenements:

Who: started by Charles Darwin (about animals specifically)

What: social and economic philosophy that applied Darwin's theory of natural selection to human societies. Believing that survival of the fittest and natural selection should be applied to society and economics, arguing that those who were successful and prosperous were naturally more fit and deserving of their success, while those who struggled were deemed less fit.

Where: the US

When: Gilded Age

Why: One prime example of this was written by William Graham Sumner. In one of his essays, he argued that giving to the poor was going against nature and that the primary distinction between rich and poor people is their fitness. Basically, poor people choose to be that way and rich people have earned their position by being more motivated, disciplined, and smarter while the poor are lazy. Sumner was critical of social reform efforts and philanthropy, viewing them as misguided attempts to interfere with the natural course of societal development. He believed that helping the less fortunate went against the principles of natural selection.

liberty of contract:

Who: Business owners, workers, courts, and politicians.

What: A legal doctrine that argued workers and employers should have the freedom to negotiate labor contracts without government interference. This ideology was used to justify laissez-faire capitalism and oppose labor regulations, such as minimum wage laws and maximum work-hour limits.

Where: Debated across the United States, particularly in court cases challenging labor laws.

When: Gilded Age and early 20th century, especially in the 1870s–1900s.

Why: Business leaders promoted liberty of contract to resist government-imposed labor protections, arguing that government regulation interfered with individual economic freedom. However, critics argued that the imbalance of power between employers and workers made true "freedom of contract" an illusion, as workers had little real choice in oppressive labor conditions. This concept was central to key court cases, including Lochner v. New York (1905).

Lochner v. New York (1905): 

Who: Joseph Lochner (a bakery owner), the state of New York, and the U.S. Supreme Court.

What: A landmark Supreme Court case that struck down a New York law limiting bakers to a 10-hour workday, ruling that it violated workers' "liberty of contract" under the 14th Amendment. The decision was part of the broader Lochner Era, when courts routinely invalidated labor regulations.

Where: New York State, but had nationwide implications.

When: 1905.

Why: The ruling favored business interests over labor protections, reinforcing the idea that government could not interfere with private contracts. It reflected the dominant pro-business attitude of the time and delayed many labor reforms. The case was eventually overturned during the New Deal era as courts became more accepting of labor regulations.

Haymarket Affair (riot): 

Who: The involvement of anarchists in organizing the event and the subsequent trial of eight men, including some prominent anarchists, created a connection between the Haymarket Affair (led by the Knights of labor )and anarchism in the public's perception. 

What: The incident took place during a labor rally in Haymarket Square, Chicago. The rally was organized to protest police violence against striking workers at the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company. As the rally was winding down, someone threw a bomb at the police officers present, leading to chaos and violence. The police responded by firing into the crowd.

Where:Haymarket Square

When: the gilded age

Why:this led to the downfall of the knights of labor but allowed for the emergence of a new labor union: the AFL.Despite a lack of clear evidence linking the organizers to the bomb thrower, eight men, including some prominent labor leaders, were arrested and convicted of conspiracy and murder. Four of them were later executed, and the others received long prison sentences. 

American Federation of Labor: 

Who: the founder was Samuel Gompers. Membership was restricted to skilled workers (which thereby excluded most women, new immigrants, and african americans from joining)

What:this was a federation of labor movements. The AFL focused on the organization of skilled workers and remained the sole unifying agency of American labor. They disagreed with the knight's utopian dream of creating independent parties that would try to get elected and through that, make change to labor. Instead, they believed the labor movement should devote itself to negotiating with employers for higher wages and better working conditions. 

Where:america

When:the gilded age

Why:​The AFLs belief in achieving its goals through collective bargaining with employers marked a departure from more radical labor movements of the time, and it contributed to the development of a more stable and constructive relationship between labor and management. Their focus on skilled workers, advocating for their specific concerns and interests allowed them to create a cohesive and powerful movement among workers with similar skills and backgrounds. 

Chinese Exclusion Act: 

Who: chinese people and the government

What: it prohibited the immigration of Chinese laborers to the United States. It was the first significant law restricting immigration based on nationality and remained in effect until its repeal.. The act reflected anti-Chinese sentiments and aimed to limit Chinese immigration and preserve job opportunities for American workers, particularly during the economic challenges of the late 19th century.Chinese in the US were required to register with the government and carry identification papers or face deportation. They resisted these laws through refusing to carry the papers, obtaining fake papers, and (following an earthquake) claiming that the papers were lost or destroyed. Many Chinese people sued local governments for redress when their rights were violated and often petitioned congress for indemnity.

Where: from china to the east coast (worked on railroads)

When: the gilded age

Why: although the USA had enacted bans on people from certain countries, they had never created them for entire races of people. This exclusion justified the belief that Chinese were unable to assimilate into American culture. 

Plunkitt of Tammany Hall: 

Who: George Washington Plunkitt was a machine politician who modeled the bootstraps theory of becoming a politician. 

What:this was a collection of his speeches and writing which detailed his distinction between an “honest” and “dishonest” graft. With dishonest grafts including blackmail, gambling, saloon keepers, and disorderly people. While honest graft was seeing your opportunities and taking them which is what he did. Additionally, Plunkitt advocated for aspiring politicians to not rely on college to teach them the ways of politics but instead focus on making connections within your community which will get you closer to being a politician. 

Where: ACROSS THE US

When:Tammany Hall

Why:Plunkitt's practical approach to politics, known as "honest graft," sheds light on the intricate connections between politicians and the urban working class. His pragmatic philosophy highlights the complexities and realities of political life. His narrative serves as a valuable primary source, offering a nuanced understanding of the inner workings of Tammany Hall and the broader political landscape of his time. Its ability to provide insights into the political culture of the Gilded Age, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics between politicians, political machines, and the electorate in an era marked by rapid urbanization and social change.

Interstate Commerce Act of 1887: 

Who: poorer farmers and merchants

What: ensured that rates railroads charged farmers and merchants to transport their goods were reasonable. This was the first federal agency intended to regulate economic activity. But, since it lacked the power to establish rates on its own (it could only sue companies in court) it had little impact on railroad practices. 

Where: across the united states

When: the gilded age

Why:The Gilded Age was marked by rapid economic growth, but it also witnessed monopolistic tendencies and unfair business practices, particularly in the railroad industry. The ICC was tasked with regulating interstate commerce, ensuring fair rates, and preventing discriminatory practices by railroads. Its creation marked a turning point in government intervention in the economy, reflecting a recognition of the need for oversight to curb the excesses of unrestrained capitalism. Additionally, it shows how bad monopolies affected independent farmers and merchants because larger ones could have afforded the rates but smaller ones couldn't. 

Progress and Poverty (Foner doc.): 

Who: written by Henry George, an American political economist and social theorist. He advocated for economic reforms and addressed social issues.

What: One of the central ideas of the book is his proposal for a single tax on land, known as the "land value tax.". He argued that this tax would help alleviate poverty and promote progress by preventing the concentration of wealth in land ownership. The tax was meant to even the playing field and worked so that the more land you had, the more you paid on said land. 

Where: across the united states

When: The Gilded Age

Why: The widespread success of this book showed the nationwide acknowledgment of the problems that plagued America. The book gained significant attention and sparked widespread debate during its time. It contributed to the larger discourse on economic inequality and the role of government in addressing social issues. George's single-tax proposal, although not fully implemented, influenced subsequent discussions about land reform and taxation policies. the ideas explored in this book because of the fresh perspectives that combated monopolies and land taxes. Additionally, the book's discussion of liberty (with the wealthy having it and the poor lacking it) was significant at the time. :ask her to talk about middle class reformers and the use of liberty in the document.

American imperialism (causes/supporters): 

Who: Americans to Guam, Cuba, Hawaii, puerto rico, and 

What: Americans' motivation for imperialism involved the spread of Christianity and bringing American products to new markets. They saw themselves as the civilizers in the world who were promoting democratic ideas, culture, and industry to “savages.” At the root of these expansions were manifest destiny and American exceptionalism which came together to give Americans a sense of entitlement that only they would be capable of—their drive to colonize led to many confrontations with the soon-to-be subjects. 

Where: America to other countries

When: The Gilded Age

Why: America saw themselves as the parents of the colonized. Often portraying the countries in cruel cartoons that showed them with childlike features and that through assimilation into American culture, they would grow up. This was known as the white man's burden, and they were tasked with raising the children. 

President William McKinley: 

Who: president of the us

What: Republican politician who played a significant role in shaping American politics during the Gilded Age. He advocated for protective tariffs, the gold standard, and American expansionism. His presidency saw the annexation of Hawaii, the Spanish-American War, and the subsequent acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.

Where: across the country and expanded American influence outside

When: The Gilded Age

Why: McKinley's presidency marked a period of economic growth and industrial expansion in the United States. He supported pro-business policies that favored industrialists and led to the consolidation of wealth among the elite. McKinley's foreign policy, including the Spanish-American War and subsequent territorial acquisitions, contributed to America's emergence as a global power. This fundamentally changed americas diplomatic standing because people His assassination in 1901 elevated Theodore Roosevelt to the presidency, leading to significant changes in American politics and progressive reforms.

"yellow press": 

Who: Prominent newspaper publishers like Joseph Pulitzer (New York World) and William Randolph Hearst (New York Journal), along with sensationalist journalists and illustrators.

What: A style of journalism that emphasized sensationalism, exaggerated stories, and eye-catching headlines to attract readers. It often used dramatic imagery, emotional appeals, and sometimes misinformation to stir public opinion. The Yellow Press played a significant role in shaping public perception of events, especially leading up to the Spanish-American War.

Where: Primarily in New York City, but its influence spread nationwide through widely circulated newspapers.

When: Late 19th century, especially 1890s, reaching its peak around 1898 during the lead-up to the Spanish-American War.

Why: Publishers used sensationalist stories to boost newspaper sales, often exaggerating or fabricating news to captivate audiences. The Yellow Press significantly contributed to war fever, particularly by blaming Spain for the sinking of the USS Maine, which helped push the U.S. into the Spanish-American War. While it declined in influence over time, it set the foundation for modern tabloid journalism and media-driven public opinion.

acquisition of Hawaiian Islands (cause): 

Who: hawaii and america

What:The causes of the acquisition of Hawaii revolved around economic interests, particularly the sugar industry. American sugar planters in Hawaii sought closer ties with the United States to secure favorable economic conditions, including reduced tariffs on their sugar exports.

Where: hawaii

When: the gilded age

Why:This move reflected the broader imperialistic ambitions of the era, as the United States aimed to expand its influence and control beyond continental borders. The annexation had strategic importance due to Hawaii's location in the Pacific, serving as a crucial refueling and coaling station for American ships en route to Asia. The political changes accompanying annexation, including the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893, underscored the impact on Hawaiian governance. However, the annexation faced resistance from some native Hawaiians who opposed the loss of sovereignty and the consequential changes to their traditional way of life. 

The anti-imperialist movement (Foner doc.): 

Who: Emilio Aguinaldo wrote the article

What: this is displayed in an article written by Emilio Aguinaldo, in which he counterargues the rhetoric of American exceptionalism and that people of other countries are naturally barbarians. He says that the American war against the Philippines is laughable as they are both fighting for the same thing: liberty for the philippines. But the thing is that America wants to force them to be free while they just want to be free. 

Where: america the phillipines

When: the gilded age

Why: this intentionally points out the hypocritical nature of America's actions as they are fighting against liberty even though they don't think they are. 

Farmers' Alliance:

Who: farmers who were grappling with economic challenges and seeking solutions to their grievances. Women were allowed to join as the wives/daughters of farmers and could publish in their newspaper as long as the material wasnt too radical. 

What: a grassroots movement that aimed to address the economic hardships faced by farmers, including falling crop prices, high railroad rates, and debt. It sought to unite farmers to collectively address these issues, promote agrarian interests, and advocate for policies that would benefit the agricultural community. The alliance worked against “enemies” of the farmer including banks (because of the high interest rates associated with loans that lead to foreclosure on their land) and railroads (because of the exorbitant fees they were charged for transporting materials)

Where: across the us

When:the gilded age

Why:it united farmers across the Southern and Western regions in response to economic hardships. Advocating for agrarian interests, it sought reforms such as railroad rate regulation and currency expansion. Its influence laid the groundwork for the Populist Party, impacting American politics in the 1890s. The Alliance fostered a sense of community among farmers, addressing common challenges and leaving a lasting legacy in the broader agrarian discontent that characterized this transformative period. This was a precursor to the populist party as it included many of the same demographics represented by the later party. 

The Omaha Platform: 

Who: associated with the Populist Party, officially known as the People's Party. 

What:proposed a system of federal storage facilities for the farmers' crops. The objective was to allow the farmers to control the pricing of their products. The Omaha Platform proposed a special taxing system for them so that they would have to pay taxes depending on how much money they made. is the official statement of the Populist Party's political goals and principles. 

Where: established at the formative convention of the party that happened at omaha nebraska

When: The Gilded Age

Why:it articulated the grievances and demands of the Populist movement during the Gilded Age. Some key points from the platform include calls for a graduated income tax, direct election of senators, government ownership of railroads and communication systems, and the free coinage of silver. The Populist Party aimed to address the economic challenges faced by farmers and workers who felt marginalized and exploited by powerful corporate interests. 

free coinage of silver (the silver debate): 

Who: Supported by farmers, debtors, and the Populist Party, along with some Democrats like William Jennings Bryan. Opposed by bankers, industrialists, and the Republican Party, who favored the gold standard.

What: A movement advocating for the unlimited minting of silver coins to increase the money supply and create inflation. This was seen as a way to help farmers and working-class Americans who were struggling with debt, as inflation would make it easier to repay loans. The issue was central to the "bimetallism" debate, where supporters wanted both silver and gold to back U.S. currency, rather than just gold.

Where: The strongest support came from the South and West, where farmers and miners wanted inflationary policies. Opposition was concentrated in the Northeast, where industrialists and bankers favored the stability of the gold standard.

When: Late 19th century, peaking in the 1896 election with William Jennings Bryan’s famous “Cross of Gold” speech advocating for free silver. The issue declined after the Gold Standard Act of 1900, which officially put the U.S. on the gold standard.

Why: Farmers and debtors believed that an expanded money supply through silver coinage would raise crop prices and reduce debt burdens. However, opponents feared inflation would weaken the economy and devalue savings. The debate symbolized a broader class struggle between agrarian and industrial interests, ultimately leading to the decline of the Populist movement when Bryan lost the 1896 election.

Spanish-American War (effects): 

Who: a war between Spain and America

What:  this was also known as the “splendid little war” because of the fact that there were very few American casualties from battle, and it did not last very long. The war began because of America's support, the ongoing struggle by Cubans and Filipinos against Spanish rule, and the mysterious explosion of the battleship U.S.S. Maine in Havana Harbor by the Spanish, which was seen as intentional but was actually an accident. The war quickly escalated into an imperial venture that ended with the US acquiring the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Guam. President McKinley forced the Cubans to adopt the Platt amendment into their new state constitution (said the US would intervene militarily whenever they saw fit).

Where: primarily fought in the Philippines and Cuba

When: The Gilded Age

Why: It marked the decline of Spain's imperial power in the Americas, leading to the acquisition of key territories by the United States. The war contributed to the debate over American imperialism as the nation grappled with the ethical implications of acquiring colonies. The acquisition of territories beyond its borders showcased the beginning of American imperialism and reshaped the country's foreign policy. The conflict also resulted in Cuba gaining independence, although the United States played a significant role in shaping Cuban affairs. The economic impact was substantial, with new markets and trading opportunities arising from the acquired territories, contributing to the economic growth of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 

annexation of the Philippines (cause/effect): 

Who: the Philippines and America

What: following the Spanish-American war, America got possession of the Philippines. Once President McKinley decided to retain possession of the islands, the once-friendly Filipino movement turned against America. This war was far bloodier and longer than the first. It was widely debated in America with the emergence of many modes of torture, including waterboarding, that was considered cruel to the American public. The war sparked intense debates across the nation, with many believing that imperialism was fundamentally against American ideals because of their emphasis on self-government in the Declaration of Independence. The idea of an “empire of liberty” insinuated that, eventually, the territories would be admitted into America as equal states. Still, nativism caused them not to want them because they feared it would water down American identity, and they wouldn’t understand democracy. 

Where: The Philippines

When: The Gilded Age

Why: Driven by imperialistic ambitions, strategic interests, and a desire to compete with global powers, the U.S. sought to establish itself as a colonial force in Asia. However, this move triggered a heated domestic debate on imperialism, with figures like Mark Twain and William Jennings Bryan opposing the annexation due to ethical concerns and a departure from democratic principles. The resulting war had a significant loss of life and resources as Filipino nationalists resisted American rule. Despite introducing reforms in education, infrastructure, and public health, the U.S. faced challenges in administering the colony. The Philippines became a pivotal strategic outpost for the United States in the Pacific, influencing its foreign policy and global standing. The annexation also contributed to the growth of the anti-imperialist movement in the U.S., highlighting the moral complexities of imperialistic actions. The cultural exchange between American and Filipino societies left a lasting impact, shaping the historical trajectory of both nations. 

Josiah Strong (Foner doc.): 

Who: American Protestant clergyman, author, and social reformer.

What: known for his influential book titled "Our Country: Its Possible Future and Its Present Crisis". In this book, he expressed his views on American exceptionalism and argued for the spread of American civilization and values around the world.

Where: across america

When: gilded age

Why:He argued that America had a moral obligation to spread its influence globally, promoting Christian values and civilization. This perspective contributed to the ideology of American imperialism and influenced policy makers and thinkers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Strong's work reflected the attitudes of many Americans during the Gilded Age, a period marked by industrialization, economic growth, and social changes. His writings are considered a notable example of the ethnocentric and expansionist sentiments prevalent in the United States during that era.

The Grange and Granger Laws: 

• The Grange

Who: founded by Oliver Kelley

What: It was a social and advocacy organization to support farmers and rural communities in the United States. It started as a fraternal organization to provide farmers with information and a sense of connection that they had never had before. It aimed to address economic challenges and create a sense of community among its members. The Grange played a significant role during the Gilded Age, advocating for reforms such as fairer railroad rates and influencing the development of Granger laws. It also sought to address issues affecting farmers, such as the high costs of transportation and storage, and advocated for agricultural reforms. the movement failed because of poor organizational and fiscal practices that caused it to fall apart when membership increased rapidly.

Where: across the country

When: the gilded age

Why:The first successful national farming organization. The first time that farmers had been connected and showed them the possibilities of things like unions and self advocacy. 

• Granger Laws

Who: supported by the Grange

What: laws were designed to regulate the rapidly expanding railroad industry, which was seen as having significant economic power over farmers. The laws were enacted to address concerns about unfair and discriminatory practices by railroads, including high freight rates and price discrimination.  Their main goal was to establish a maximum fee for the railroads so that farmers could have a more consistent idea of the price. They were later repealed by the supreme court. 

Where: primarily in western and midwestern states

When: the gilded age

Why:their role as an early attempt to curb the power of industrial giants, particularly in the railroad sector, and protect the interests of farmers. Beyond their immediate impact, the Granger laws foreshadowed the broader Progressive Era reforms that sought to address social and economic inequities through government intervention, leaving a lasting imprint on the ongoing debate about the appropriate balance between regulation and free-market principles in American society

The People's Party (Populist Party): 

Who: primarily composed of farmers, laborers, and other agrarian groups who felt disenfranchised by the economic and political systems of the time. Farmers and industrial workers faced many of the same problems with having to advocate for themselves constantly with the larger industrial and railroad giants constantly working against them for profits. 

What: formed in response to the economic hardships and agrarian discontent prevalent during the Gilded Age. It aimed to address the concerns of farmers and laborers who were struggling with falling agricultural prices, high debts, and economic inequality. The party's platform included demands for currency reform, increased government regulation of railroads and corporations, and policies to protect the interests of small farmers. 

Where: the South and midwest

When: The Gilded Age

Why: While it did not achieve widespread electoral success at the national level, it influenced the political agenda and pushed for reforms that would later be adopted by mainstream parties. Some of the Populist ideas, such as the call for a graduated income tax and direct election of senators, were eventually incorporated into the platform of the Democratic Party. The movement highlighted the economic struggles of farmers and workers during a time of rapid industrialization.

William Jennings Bryan:

Who: William Jennings Bryan was an American politician and orator.

What: he was known for his powerful speeches and populist stance on various issues, particularly advocating for the interests of farmers and the working class. He gained national attention for his impassioned speeches in support of free silver, a monetary policy aimed at expanding the money supply by incorporating silver into the currency system.

Where: the us

When: Gilded Age

Why: was a crucial figure in the populist movement of the Gilded Age. His famous "Cross of Gold" speech at the 1896 Democratic National Convention showcased his support for bimetallism (free silver) and garnered him the Democratic presidential nomination. Although he lost the election to William McKinley, Bryan's influence persisted as he advocated for progressive policies and social justice causes. Bryan's legacy is that of a populist leader and a symbol of the struggles and changes taking place during the transitional period from agrarian to industrial society in the United States.

you are not to actually write the essay before the exam. This outline must be one (1) page ONLY and will be collected along with your test packet the day of the exam. The rubric for the LEQ is on the next page of this study guide.

Each component of the rubric is worth 8 points each. Grading will be based on the following: 1) how well you fulfilled the expectations of each component; and 2) accuracy of historical content knowledge.

2. Evaluate the extent to which the Gilded Age economy fostered change in the United States in the period from 1870 to 1900.