Unit 6 1865-1900 2/3/2025 Flashcards
(68 cards)
What caused the standard way of living shift in the U.S. and what was the new standard?
The growth of the American industry
The standard was having these new inventions
What was the impact of the growth of American industry on the standard of living?
Raised the standard of living for most people
However, it also created sharper economic and class divisions.
By the 1890s, what percentage of the nation’s wealth did the richest 10% control?
90%
This indicates significant economic inequality.
Who were some of the new class of wealth during this period?
Vanderbilts
They had summer homes in Newport, RI.
What is the Horatio Alger Myth?
An author who wrote about a young man who became rich and successful through honesty, hard work, and a little luck
This myth was popularized by the author’s novels, which sold more than a million copies.
In reality, how many people experienced the rags-to-riches story depicted in the Horatio Alger Myth?
Few
The story often does not reflect the actual experiences of most individuals.
What was the typical profile of a wealthy business person during this time?
White, Anglo-Saxon, Protestant male from an upper or middle-class background
This indicates the social and ethnic homogeneity among the wealthy.
What was the purpose of the Horatio Alger novels?
To make people hopeful for a wealthier life
This reflects a broader societal belief in the possibility of upward mobility.
What was the primary reason for the growth of the middle class?
Growth of corporations provided a need for white-collar workers
This growth was driven by the expansion of business operations and the demand for various professional roles.
What role did middle management play in corporations?
Middle management was needed to coordinate the operations between the chief executives and the factories
This coordination was essential for effective communication and operational efficiency.
Which types of jobs contributed to the expansion of the middle class?
Jobs for accountants, clerical workers, and salespersons
These roles were critical in supporting corporate functions and driving business growth.
By 1900, what fraction of all working Americans worked for wages?
2/3
How many hours a day and days a week did wage earners typically work by 1900?
Ten hours a day, six days a week
What determined wages during this time period?
Supply and demand
Was there a minimum wage in place during this period?
No
How did factory wages compare to the level for bare subsistence?
Barely above
Although real wages rose steadily, what issue did most families face?
Could not support a family on one income
Who else was working to help support families during this time?
Women and children
In 1890, how many of the 12.45 million families averaged less than $380 a year in income?
11 million
What percentage of women were working in 1900?
1 out of every 5 women
This equates to 20% of women being part of the workforce.
What was the marital status of most working women in 1900?
Most were young and single; only 5% were married
This indicates that the majority of working women were not yet in marriages.
In which industries did women primarily work during this time?
Textile, garment, and food-processing industries
These industries were among the most common for female employment.
What types of jobs did women typically hold?
Secretaries, bookkeepers, typists, and telephone operators
These roles reflect the clerical and administrative nature of many female jobs.
Did women earn as much money as men?
No, women didn’t make as much money as men
This highlights the wage gap present during this period.
