Emergence Of Modern America: The Gilded Age - What Was The Gilded Age?

The video explores the Gilded Age, a period from 1870 to 1900 marked by rapid industrialization and economic growth in America. It highlights the satirical work of Mark Twain, who coined the term to describe the era's superficial prosperity. The video discusses the transformation of America post-Civil War, the rise of big business, and key figures like John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie. It emphasizes the role of new machinery and industries, particularly oil and steel, in shaping the nation's economy and infrastructure, with a focus on the expanding railroad industry.

What does the term 'Gilded Age' refer to in American history?

• A period of great wealth and no corruption

• A time of industrial growth with underlying corruption

• An era of peace and prosperity

• A phase of agricultural dominance

What major change occurred in America after the Civil War?

• The country became more agricultural

• The government became more decentralized

• America shifted from farmland to factory

• The nation focused on international trade

Which factor contributed to the rapid growth of big businesses during the Gilded Age?

• Decrease in population

• Lack of competition

• Introduction of new machinery

• Government subsidies

What was the primary use of oil before the invention of the automobile?

• Fuel for airplanes

• Lubricant for machinery

• Lighting homes with gas lamps

• Heating buildings

Who was a key figure in the steel industry during the Gilded Age?

• Henry Ford

• Thomas Edison

• Cornelius Vanderbilt

• Andrew Carnegie