Gilded Age Corruption and the Progressive Era

What was the period of American history known as the Gilded Age?

• A period of cultural and artistic flourishing

• A time of economic prosperity and social equality

• A period of poverty and corruption

• A time of political stability and industrial growth

Which of the following best describes the economic disparity during the Gilded Age?

• The rich grew richer while the poor grew poorer

• There was equal distribution of wealth among all social classes

• The middle class experienced significant economic growth

• The government implemented policies to reduce income inequality

What were some of the corrupt practices during the Gilded Age?

• Bribing politicians for favorable government policies

• Promoting worker rights and fair wages

• Supporting social welfare programs

• Encouraging competition and free market principles

How did workers respond to the inequality and poor working conditions during the Gilded Age?

• By migrating to other countries in search of better opportunities

• By seeking government assistance and welfare programs

• By starting their own businesses and becoming entrepreneurs

• By forming labor unions and going on strikes

Which political party emerged as a response to the economic disparity during the Gilded Age?

• The Republican Party

• The Democratic Party

• The Populist Party

• The Socialist Party

What were some of the reforms advocated by the Populist Party?

• Lowering taxes for the wealthy

• Privatization of public services

• Government ownership of railroad and telephone companies

• Eliminating labor unions

Who became the president after the Gilded Age and ushered in the Progressive Era?

• Andrew Carnegie

• Theodore Roosevelt

• J.P. Morgan

• John D. Rockefeller

What were some of the goals of the Progressive movement?

• Greater governmental regulation of the economy

• Protection of corporate monopolies

• Promotion of laissez-faire capitalism

• Reduction of worker rights

How did investigative journalists contribute to the Progressive reforms?

• By advocating for the interests of big businesses

• By exposing corporate malfeasance and social injustice

• By promoting government corruption and bribery

• By supporting monopolies and trusts

What were some of the democratic reforms implemented during the Progressive Era?

• Elimination of labor unions and worker protections

• Expansion of political machines and corruption

• Restrictions on voting rights and suffrage

• Direct primary elections and initiatives/referendums