During the Gilded Age (late 19th century) and the Progressive Era (early 20th century), the United States experienced significant industrialization, marked by rapid economic growth, technological advancements, and social changes. Here are some major events and themes from this period. Expansion of Industry: The Gilded Age saw the rise of industries such as steel, oil, and railroads, which transformed the American economy. Figures like Andrew Carnegie (steel) and John D. Rockefeller (oil) amassed vast fortunes, leading to the emergence of corporate giants known as "robber barons." Urbanization: Industrialization drew people from rural areas to cities in search of employment opportunities, leading to rapid urbanization. Cities became crowded …show more content…
Workers organized labor unions to demand better treatment and higher wages. Significant strikes, such as the Pullman Strike of 1894 and the Homestead Strike of 1892, highlighted the tensions between labor and management. Government Regulation: As industrialization progressed, concerns arose about the power and practices of corporations. The government responded with regulations aimed at curbing monopolistic behavior and ensuring fair competition. The Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 was one such measure designed to prevent the formation of monopolies. Social Reform Movements: The Progressive Era saw the rise of various social reform movements aimed at addressing the social and economic inequalities resulting from industrialization. Progressives advocated for reforms such as labor rights, women's suffrage, child labor laws, and improved working conditions. Muckraking Journalism: Journalists known as muckrakers exposed corruption and abuses of power in government and industry. Their investigative reporting, often published in magazines like McClure's and Cosmopolitan, helped to raise public awareness and spur calls for