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The Gilded Age: Illusion vs. Reality of Society

Explore the contradictions of the Gilded Age - a period of perceived prosperity overshadowed by corruption, poverty, and social disparities. Learn about Social Darwinism, individualism, philanthropy, and civil service reform.

kieran-west
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The Gilded Age: Illusion vs. Reality of Society

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  1. 6.3: The Gilded Age Era when society was perceived as doing well but the reality was corruption, poverty, crime, and a huge gap between the rich and poor.

  2. A. Individualism • The idea that anyone can be successful as long as you work hard and are honest

  3. B. Business and Social Darwinism “Survival of the Fittest”

  4. B. Social Darwinism • Success or failure of a business were considered to be the natural selection process at work • laissez-faire:Government did not have the right to get involved • Riches were a sign of God’s favor; poor were lazy and no good

  5. Emphasized the individual work ethic “Rags to Riches” Good virtue Hard work will pay off C. Horatio Alger

  6. Philanthropy - Make as much money as you can so that you can give it away D. Gospel of Wealth

  7. Saloons Today’s bars Hangout Political centers Vaudeville and Ragtime Theater and music; the precursor to jazz 3. Amusement Parks and Sports a. Spectator sports Baseball Basketball Football Parks Why? E. Changing Popular Culture

  8. 1. Traditional Spoils system – the winner of the election would give jobs to those who helped him Bred corruption and inefficiency 2. New Pendleton Act – jobs given based on qualifications not political affiliation F. Civil Service Reform

  9. Commonality? • Social Gospel movement • The Salvation Army • The YMCA • Settlement houses

  10. 1. Social Gospel Mvmt Make things better for people by way of charity and justice Churches involved in community social programs Variety of programs Save your soul by saving the poor 2. Salvation Army & YMCA Both religious organizations Offered temporary shelter as well as services G. Social reformers – young, middleclass people who tried helping out the poor

  11. Jane Addams “Hull House”

  12. Settlement Houses

  13. H. Americanization Movement • Programs which provided immigrants with education on various subjects as well as social customs and traditions that would help them assimilate – school!

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