Answer:
The Gilded Age saw rapid economic and industrial growth, driven by technical advances in transportation and manufacturing, and causing an expansion of personal wealth, philanthropy, and immigration.
Politics during this time not only experienced corruption, but also increased participation. The ” political machine,” in which constituents supported a candidate in exchange for anticipated patronage, reached new heights.
The Gilded Age also was characterized by social reform, such as women’s suffrage, workplace improvements, prohibition, and civil service changes.
Women were politically active and played a large role in the economy, both as workers and consumers.
Much social thought of the time was characterized by explanations and justifications for the increasing wealth disparity among Americans, although there were many dissenting voices.
Key Terms
The Gilded Age: An era in the United States from 1870 to 1900 characterized by industrial growth, political participation, and social reform.
political machines: Political organizations in which an authoritative boss or small group commands the support of a corps of supporters and businesses (usually campaign workers), who receive rewards for their efforts.
Susan B. Anthony: A leader in the women’s suffrage movement and a key figure in the National American Woman Suffrage Association.
suffrage: The legal right to vote