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Gilded Age Essay

516 Words3 Pages

The Gilded Age refers to the period in American history between the 1870s and the early 1900s, characterized by economic growth, industrialization, and technological advancements. The term "gilded" is used to describe the era because, while it was a time of great prosperity for some, there were also significant social and economic problems, including widespread poverty, political corruption, and labor unrest. The period was a time of stark contrasts between the extreme wealth of the few and the poverty of the many. The Gilded Age was driven by technological and business innovations that transformed American industry and society. The invention of new machinery, such as the Bessemer process for steel production and the steam engine, revolutionized manufacturing and transportation. This led to the …show more content…

The expansion of industry and commerce led to the exploitation of workers, who often faced long hours, dangerous working conditions, and low pay. The rapid industrialization and urbanization also led to overcrowding, unsanitary living conditions, and a lack of adequate infrastructure in many cities, leading to widespread disease and poverty. The concentration of wealth in the hands of a few also created a significant wealth gap, with the rich getting richer while many Americans struggled to make ends meet. The "Robber Barons" were a group of wealthy industrialists who amassed great fortunes during the Gilded Age. These men, including Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, and J.P. Morgan, were known for their aggressive business practices and their willingness to do whatever it took to increase their wealth and power. They often engaged in monopolistic practices, using their wealth and influence to dominate their industries and control prices. While they were able to amass great fortunes, they were also criticized for their ruthless business practices and the negative impact they had on

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