The Gilded Age and Its Contrasts

The transcript discusses the Gilded Age, a period of great wealth and social change in America. It highlights the extravagant Waldorf Ball, which symbolized the era's opulence and the stark divide between the rich and the poor. Critics of the time warned of the dangers of such inequality, as workers began to question their place in society. The transformation of America into an economic powerhouse created new social divides, leading to debates about the nation's identity and the growing gap between the wealthy elite and the working class.

What event in February 1897 symbolized the opulence of the Gilded Age?

• A public protest

• A scientific exhibition

• A political rally

• A grand ball in New York

During the Gilded Age, which group felt most confident about the future?

• The political leaders

• The wealthy elite

• The middle class

• The working class

What was the criticism against the extravagant lifestyle of the wealthy during the Gilded Age?

• It was seen as beneficial for the economy

• It was considered a sign of progress

• It highlighted the growing social divide

• It was ignored by the public

What was the main concern of workers during the Gilded Age?

• Overabundance of job opportunities

• Inability to pay bills and feed their families

• Lack of political representation

• Excessive taxation

What transformation did America undergo 40 years after the Civil War?

• A decrease in population

• Becoming an economic powerhouse

• A decline in industrialization

• A shift to a rural economy

What does the term 'Gilded' imply about the era?

• It was a time of pure prosperity

• It was marked by technological stagnation

• It had a shiny exterior with underlying issues

• It was a period of complete harmony

What was the perception of the Gilded Age among critics?

• A period of economic decline

• A time of great equality

• A shiny exterior with underlying social issues

• An era of political stability

What was the impact of the economic transformation on American society?

• It led to a unified society

• It created stark divides in wealth and opportunity

• It caused a decline in urbanization

• It resulted in a decrease in industrialization

By the time of the Waldorf Ballroom gathering, what was the wealth distribution in America?

• Evenly distributed among all families

• Mostly held by the government

• Shared equally between the rich and poor

• Concentrated among the richest 4,000 families

What question about America's identity is raised in the final section?

• If America should adopt a new currency

• If America is divided into two nations

• Whether America should expand its borders

• Whether America is a monarchy