U.S. Political History and Reforms

The video discusses the Gilded Age, a period marked by myths of wealth and opportunity in America, which were not true for many, especially immigrants. It highlights the corruption, exploitation, and monopolies that defined the era, with figures like Rockefeller and Carnegie dominating industries. The video also covers Boss Tweed's political corruption and the spoils system. The narrative transitions to the Progressive Era, where reformers sought to address these issues, leading to significant changes like the Pendleton Act and the Sherman Antitrust Act.

What was the common misconception about America during the Gilded Age?

• It offered free education to all.

• It was free from corruption.

• It had streets paved with gold.

• It was a land of equal opportunity.

Which industry was Rockefeller associated with during the Gilded Age?

• Banking

• Oil

• Railroads

• Steel

What was the primary method used by monopolies to eliminate competition?

• Offering better customer service

• Lowering prices temporarily

• Increasing wages for workers

• Investing in new technologies

Who was Boss Tweed and what was he known for?

• A banker known for supporting small businesses

• A railroad tycoon known for fair practices

• A political leader known for corruption

• An industrialist known for philanthropy

What was the spoils system?

• A system where jobs were given based on merit

• A system where jobs were given to political friends

• A system where jobs were inherited

• A system where jobs were auctioned to the highest bidder

What was the main goal of the Progressive Era?

• To address social inequalities

• To maintain the status quo

• To reduce government intervention

• To expand industrial growth

Who was Upton Sinclair and what did he expose?

• An industrialist who exposed labor exploitation

• A banker who exposed financial corruption

• A politician who exposed electoral fraud

• A journalist who exposed the meatpacking industry

What was the purpose of the Pendleton Act?

• To provide free education

• To break up monopolies

• To regulate interstate commerce

• To establish a merit-based system for government jobs

What did the Sherman Antitrust Act aim to achieve?

• To promote competition by breaking up monopolies

• To protect workers' rights

• To reduce taxes on big businesses

• To increase tariffs on imports

Which reform aimed to strengthen government authority on business between states?

• The Sherman Antitrust Act

• The Interstate Commerce Act

• The Clayton Antitrust Act

• The Pendleton Act