Gilded Age

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The Gilded Age refers to a time in American History where there was massive economic growth, technological advances, and developments in pop culture. Even so many Americans felt that these developments were pretentious and that underneath all this change and prosperity laid the harsh realities of urban cities, political corruption, and the exploitation of laborers. However there were attempts to better those that obstructed the jewel-like aspect of America. There was an immense growth within the urban population. This was due to the rise of immigration as well as American prospects of a better living in urban areas because of all the jobs available. The rich aspects of living in an urban setting however did not meet its high expectations. The reality of these cities were that they were overcrowded, lacked proper sanitation as well as housing and many of the residents were not happy, joyous people. Cities with such poor qualities were known as slums, many poor Americans and underpaid immigrants inhabited these parts. The most common form of housing in the slums was called tenements. These were two to three roomed apartments that sheltered families. Sometimes there was even more than one family living in the same apartment at once. Alongside these inadequately living arrangements were the even poorer living conditions. The rooms were poorly ventilated and there was neither proper sewage nor waste systems. Horse manure covered the streets and alleyways, this lead to the water supply being contaminated. Slum residents suffered from high disease and death rates. Also most of the food they bought was exposed to bacteria and disease causing germs in the streets which contributed to the rate of disease. Crime and prostitution were also... ... middle of paper ... ...to governing business did not help encourage officials to address the worker issues. In response to the lack of government aid the People’s Party was formed. They wanted to be the voice of the people. The party wanted to decrease the industrial influence within legislation and how the country is being govern. However due to discourse within the party itself it was a failed effort. The Gilded era was a time of great change and wealth. However it was not all as glamorous as it seemed. There were many social and political unrest and despair during the time as well. But to keep they golden aspect of America there were many advances and reforms at the time to improve conditions and make America a better place. Though advances were made not many solutions were apparent. America has a long way to come to actually become and hold this golden title that they claim to have.

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