GILDED AGE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION Flashcards
Gilded Age
The Gilded Age (1870s to late 1890s) was a period of rapid economic growth in the United States, marked by industrialization, urbanization, and the rise of big business.
It was also a time of significant social inequality and political corruption
Bessemer Process
The Bessemer Process, invented by Henry Bessemer in 1856, was a revolutionary method for mass-producing steel from molten pig iron.
This process involved blowing air through the molten iron to remove impurities, making steel production faster and more cost-effective
Assembly Line
The assembly line was a manufacturing process introduced by Henry Ford in the early 20th century.
It involved a conveyor belt system where workers would perform specific tasks repetitively, significantly increasing production efficiency and reducing costs.
Inventions of the Industrial Revolution
The Industrial Revolution (18th to 19th centuries) saw numerous groundbreaking inventions, such as the steam engine, spinning jenny, power loom, and telegraph.
These inventions transformed industries like textiles, transportation, and communication.
Trust and Monopolies
During the late 19th century, trusts and monopolies became prevalent as large corporations sought to control entire industries.
Notable figures like John D.
\Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie dominated sectors like oil and steel, often leading to anti-competitive practices and prompting government regulation.
Robber Barons vs captains of industry
Robber Barons: Wealthy industrialists like John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, J.P. Morgan, and Cornelius Vanderbilt were often labeled as “Robber Barons” due to their ruthless business tactics, monopolistic practices, and exploitation of workers.
Captains of Industry: The same individuals were also seen as “Captains of Industry” for their contributions to economic growth, technological advancements, and philanthropy
Rockerfeller,Ford,Carnegie,JP Morgan,Vanderbilt
unions and leaders knights of labor America
Knights of Labor: Founded in 1869, this was one of the first significant labor unions in the U.S., led by Terence V. Powderly. They aimed for broad social and economic reforms3.
American Federation of Labor (AFL): Formed in 1886 by Samuel Gompers, the AFL focused on skilled workers and aimed for better wages, hours, and working conditions through collective bargaining.
national federation of labor
A lesser-known union that also aimed to improve labor conditions
Haymarket Riot, Homestead Strike, Pullman Strike, Ludlow Massacre
Haymarket Riot (1886): A labor protest in Chicago that turned violent, resulting in the deaths of several people, including police officers.
Homestead Strike (1892): A violent labor dispute at Andrew Carnegie’s Homestead Steel Works, leading to several deaths and a setback for unionization efforts.
Pullman Strike (1894): A nationwide railroad strike that severely disrupted rail traffic and led to a federal intervention.
Ludlow Massacre (1914): A violent clash between striking coal miners and the Colorado National Guard, resulting in numerous deaths, including women and children.
nativism
A political policy of promoting the interests of native inhabitants against those of immigrants, often leading to anti-immigrant sentiments and policies
Chinese Exclusion Act (1882) and other regulations of immigration
Chinese Exclusion Act was the first significant law restricting immigration into the United States. Signed into law on May 6, 1882, it prohibited the immigration of Chinese laborers for ten years2. The act was a response to growing anti-Chinese sentiment and aimed to protect American jobs. It was later extended and made permanent until it was repealed in 1943
Other Immigration Regulations
Immigration Act of 1924 (Johnson-Reed Act): Established quotas based on nationality, limiting immigration from specific countries.
Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952: Reorganized and codified U.S. immigration law, introducing preferences based on skills and family reunification.
Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965: Abolished the National Origins Formula and established a new immigration system based on family reunification and skills
Impacts of the Industrial Revolution
The Industrial Revolution, which began in Britain in the late 18th century, had profound effects on society, economy, and culture. Some key impacts include:
Urbanization: People moved from rural areas to cities in search of factory jobs, leading to the growth of urban centers.
Economic Growth: Increased production and efficiency led to economic expansion and the accumulation of wealth, though it also widened the gap between rich and poor.
Labor Conditions: Factory work often involved long hours, low wages, and dangerous conditions, leading to the rise of labor unions and socialist movements.
Technological Advancements: Innovations such as the steam engine and mechanized textile production revolutionized industries and increased productivity
