Final answer:
Political machines gained power by receiving financial support from big business, providing services to immigrants and the poor, and obtaining authority from state legislative policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
One way political machines gained power during the Gilded Age was by receiving financial support from big business. This allowed political machines to finance their operations and gain influence over elections and government policies. For example, the notorious political machine Tammany Hall in New York City received funding from wealthy businessmen in exchange for political favors.
Another way political machines gained power was by providing services to immigrants and the poor. By offering assistance with finding jobs, housing, and social services, political machines gained the support and loyalty of these communities.
Political machines also gained power by obtaining authority from state legislative policies. Often, political machine leaders would secure positions or influence within state legislatures, allowing them to pass laws that benefitted their machine and solidify their control.
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