Gilded Age Consumerism and Society

The video explores the Gilded Age, highlighting the rise of mass consumerism and leisure activities. It discusses how industrialization and advertising fueled consumerism, while new leisure activities like sports and amusement parks emerged. The impact on society, including changes in gender roles and individualism, is examined. The video concludes with a reflection on the lasting effects of these changes.

What was a significant transformation in Coney Island during the Gilded Age?

• It transformed into a large amusement park.

• It became a major industrial hub.

• It was converted into a residential area.

• It became a center for political gatherings.

Which factor contributed to the rise of mass consumerism during the Gilded Age?

• Decline in transportation networks

• Advancements in advertising and marketing

• Introduction of new agricultural techniques

• Decrease in urban population

How did department stores like Macy's and Marshall Field's change shopping habits?

• They provided goods only for the wealthy.

• They focused solely on online sales.

• They offered a limited range of products.

• They became one-stop shops for various goods.

What was a popular leisure activity during the Gilded Age?

• Spectator sports like baseball

• Digital photography

• Virtual reality gaming

• Online streaming of movies

Which form of entertainment was accessible to all social classes during the Gilded Age?

• Vaudeville and magic shows

• Exclusive country clubs

• Private art galleries

• Opera performances

What societal change was influenced by mass consumerism during the Gilded Age?

• Decrease in urbanization

• Reduction in leisure activities

• Shift in gender roles

• Decline in technological advancements

How did the 'new woman' of the Gilded Age differ from traditional expectations?

• She was educated, independent, and politically engaged.

• She was uneducated and politically inactive.

• She focused solely on domestic duties.

• She rejected all forms of consumerism.

What was Thorstein Veblen's view on consumerism during the Gilded Age?

• He saw it as a way to improve community wealth.

• He thought it led to moral decay and social inequality.

• He considered it irrelevant to societal progress.

• He believed it promoted social equality.

What challenge did many workers face in participating in leisure culture during the Gilded Age?

• High wages and abundant free time

• Lack of interest in leisure activities

• Low pay and limited leisure time

• Excessive government regulations

How does the Gilded Age help us understand modern consumer culture?

• It indicates that leisure activities have decreased.

• It suggests that consumerism has no historical basis.

• It highlights the origins of current consumer habits.

• It shows a complete disconnect from the past.