Gilded Age Research Paper

Words: 579
Pages: 3

When the Civil War ended and the southern states lay in ruins, America entered a time of reconstruction. Though the successes and motives are disputed, it did help in a limited way, rebuild the south. Taking place at around the same time, was the Gilded Age. This was a time full of improvement in industry and business, and an increase in population. Despite all the benefits, much corruption and poverty existed in the urban areas. Political machines and bosses corrupted politics, while wealthy industry owners exploited the people from the growing lower classes. This time period, though, from the late 1860’s until the early 1900’s, brought much change to American society and reinforced many American values.

Facing another industrial revolution
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High-schools began adding classes such as shop class, mechanics, and business education, in order to prepare students better. Many even succeeded in implementing an industrial education program, whereby kids learn by doing which allowed the students to exercise their bodies and minds and explore the world of work and wonders of nature. Students were taught sewing, printing, drawing, cooking, washing, and engineering.Education after the Civil War adopted a more job-training based curriculum to help impoverished people leave the slums and live successful lives.While many states had met the standards of schooling and education, many had not. As a result, a number of laws were passed to help raise the level of education. The Hoar Bill established a federal school system in the south, whereby a federal superintendents were appointed in all states where the minimum standards were not met. Another law, the Blair Bill, which unfortunately failed, had the same goal as the Hoar Bill; help the states with the greatest educational needs. While it took many years for America to get to the level of education it has now, the constant attempt and desire to improve education, is one of the greatest characteristics of the United