According to Mark Twain, the 19th century was the period of “Gilded age” that was characterized by greed. The 19th century is described as the era of liberated capitalism and corruption (Upchurch 28). It marked the formative period of America. This paper answers the question whether; the new mass culture of the late 19th century marked an increase in freedom or a new form of social control.
In America, the 19th century contributed to the creation of the modern industrial economy. Communication and transportation network were created. In addition, corporations and the managerial revolution created transformed business organizations and operations respectively. Communication technologies created at this time included telephone, radio, magazines, newspapers, new sports such as football and other commercialized entertainments. Transportation technologies included electric trains and automobiles. These transformations represented the making of the Modern America (Upchurch 28).
The 19th century was an ear that marked a new reform in America. For example, the Civil Service Act was determined in stopping government corruption especially by emphasizing the need to have competitive examination in the application process for governmental jobs. In addition, the Interstate Commerce Act sought to eliminate discrimination and prejudice by railroads against all small shippers. At this time, racial tension and labor violence was on the increase among farmers as they faced challenges in the heavy debts accrued to them. In fact, most of them become members of the Populist Party that advocated government assistance in helping the farmers to pay their loans and a reduction of tariffs.
Just before the beginning of 20th century, United States’ industrial production as well as per capita income increased with a greater margin compared to other countries except Britain. There was an expansion of business organization and consolidation, mechanization and factory production. At this particular time, several giant corporations dominated the nation’s major sectors in the economy which were meat packing, banking, railroads, manufacturing and oil refining. All these marked the rise of cities and a new form of social control.
Works cited
Upchurch, Thomas A. Historical Dictionary of the Gilded Age. Lanham, Md: Scarecrow Press, 2009. Print.
