The Gilded Age Review

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What is the Gilded Age?

Back

The Gilded Age refers to a period in American history from the 1870s to about 1900 characterized by rapid economic growth, industrialization, and a stark contrast between wealth and poverty.

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CCSS.RL.7.9

CCSS.RL.8.9

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Who was Henry David Thoreau?

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Henry David Thoreau was an American essayist, poet, and philosopher known for his writings on naturalism and civil disobedience, particularly in his work 'Civil Disobedience'.

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CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RI.9-10.9

CCSS.RI.K.6

CCSS.RL.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.9-10.9

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What does Thoreau mean by 'civil disobedience'?

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Civil disobedience is the active, professed refusal to obey certain laws, demands, and commands of a government, based on moral grounds.

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

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What is the significance of Thoreau's statement about imprisonment?

Back

Thoreau believed that physical imprisonment does not confine the mind or spirit; he was willing to accept jail time to stand up for his beliefs.

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

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How does Thoreau compare government to a machine?

Back

Thoreau compares government to a machine that can be fixed or stopped; he suggests that individuals should not blindly follow it but rather critically assess its function.

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

Front

What does Thoreau suggest about the role of individuals in government?

Back

Thoreau suggests that individuals have a moral duty to resist unjust laws and government actions, rather than passively accepting them.

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

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What is the concept of 'blind obedience' in Thoreau's philosophy?

Back

Blind obedience refers to the uncritical acceptance of authority and laws without questioning their morality or justice.

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What does Thoreau believe is not a man's duty?

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Thoreau believes it is not a man's duty to eradicate every wrong, but rather to pursue his own contemplations and act according to his conscience.

Front

What social issue does overcrowding urban tenements represent?

Back

Overcrowding urban tenements represent the challenges of rapid urbanization during the Gilded Age, including poor living conditions and lack of adequate housing.

Front

What role did labor unions play during the Gilded Age?

Back

Labor unions emerged during the Gilded Age to advocate for workers' rights, better wages, and improved working conditions in response to industrial exploitation.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.2

CCSS.RI.11-12.2

CCSS.RI.8.2

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2