Philanthropy in the Gilded Age

The video discusses the Gilded Age, highlighting the lack of income tax and the resulting wealth accumulation by industrialists like Carnegie. It explores Carnegie's philanthropy, particularly his contributions to public libraries and education, and contrasts this with the criticism that such philanthropy perpetuates existing power structures. The video also examines the dual nature of philanthropy, acknowledging both its benefits and its role in maintaining societal hierarchies.

What was a significant financial characteristic of the Gilded Age in the United States?

• Government subsidies for all businesses

• High income tax rates

• No income tax

• Universal healthcare

Which philanthropist is most famous for his contributions to public libraries and schools?

• Andrew Carnegie

• John D. Rockefeller

• J.P. Morgan

• Henry Ford

What was a common reaction from workers to Carnegie's philanthropy?

• They were grateful for the libraries

• They wanted more fine arts

• They preferred higher wages

• They asked for more public parks

How did some workers feel about the money Carnegie gave away?

• They wanted it to be invested in businesses

• They thought it was enough

• They felt it should have been used for their wages

• They preferred it to be spent on healthcare

What was a key difference between Carnegie's philanthropy and that of other philanthropists?

• Carnegie only supported elite causes

• Carnegie focused on fine arts

• Carnegie did not donate any money

• Carnegie invested in public libraries and schools

What type of causes did other philanthropists focus on compared to Carnegie?

• Public schools

• Fine arts and music

• Healthcare

• Public libraries

What is one criticism of philanthropy mentioned in the video?

• It reduces the wealth gap

• It provides universal healthcare

• It eliminates poverty

• It perpetuates the current power system

What was a potential positive outcome of the philanthropists' investments?

• They created lasting foundations

• They built more factories

• They could have spent it on personal luxuries

• They invested in the stock market

What was a common goal of the philanthropists according to the video?

• To avoid taxes

• To perpetuate middle-class values

• To support the elite

• To increase their own wealth

What is a 'double-edged sword' in the context of philanthropy discussed in the video?

• It can both help and perpetuate existing power structures

• It only benefits the elite

• It is always beneficial

• It is always harmful