Exploring Economic and Social Issues of the Gilded Age

The video covers economic issues, focusing on industrialization, innovations, and the impact of railroads. It discusses entrepreneurship, free enterprise, and the rise of labor unions. The pros and cons of big business and monopolies are explored, along with the economic effects of the cattle industry and farming challenges. Social issues like urbanization, women's suffrage, and minority rights are addressed, highlighting the struggles during the Gilded Age. The video concludes with philanthropy efforts and the Social Gospel movement.

What was a significant effect of the expansion of railroads?

• Reduced population growth

• Stimulated economic growth through cheaper transportation

• Decreased trade between states

• Increased cost of shipping

Which innovation made communication across the country easier?

• Railroads

• Light bulb

• Telephone

• Bessemer steel process

Who is associated with the steel industry during this period?

• Booker T. Washington

• Andrew Carnegie

• Rockefeller

• Vanderbilt

What was one goal of labor unions during the Gilded Age?

• To support big businesses

• To ensure safer working conditions

• To increase working hours

• To eliminate government regulation

What role did the government play in free enterprise?

• Acted as a competitor

• Provided financial support to businesses

• Had no involvement

• Regulated to ensure fair competition

What political movement emerged due to farmers' challenges?

• Federalist Party

• Democratic Party

• Populist Party

• Republican Party

What was a major issue faced by cities during urbanization?

• Decreased population

• Overcrowding and insufficient public services

• Improved living conditions

• Lower crime rates

What was a consequence of new farm machinery?

• Lower food prices leading to farmers' reduced income

• Elimination of the Populist Party

• Decreased crop production

• Increased food prices

What did the Social Gospel movement advocate for?

• Safer working conditions and temperance

• Increased child labor

• Expansion of industrialization

• Support for big businesses

How did industrialists like Carnegie and Vanderbilt contribute to society?

• By reducing wages

• Through philanthropy

• By creating monopolies

• By promoting child labor