Summary and Review

The late 19th century saw rapid industrialization and the rise of big business in America, characterized by significant inventions and the emergence of influential entrepreneurs like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller. Technological advancements, such as the telephone and electric lighting, transformed communication and daily life, while the steel industry became a cornerstone of economic growth. Despite increased productivity and consumer access to goods, workers faced harsh conditions, leading to labor movements and strikes. However, public sentiment often turned against organized labor, culminating in violent events like the Haymarket affair and the Pullman Strike, which hindered union progress and solidified the challenges faced by the working class.