Overview of The Gilded Age and Progressive Era
Robber Barons: Their Philosophy and Public Perception
Not everyone was so pleased with the actions of the Robber Barons. One way this was shown was through political cartoons. Take a look and analyze the ones below. How do you think society felt about the super rich?
Public Perception of Robber Barons through Political Cartoons
"Do you know the only thing that gives me pleasure? It's to see my dividends coming in."
- John D. Rockefeller
- John D. Rockefeller
The Labor Movement
People can't sit idly by forever, can they? It was time for people to stand up and rise up against the Robber Barons. What changes did they want? What strategies did they use to accomplish their goals? What should they have done differently?
Working Conditions in the Factories
"Our labor unions are not narrow, self-seeking groups. They have raised wages, shortened hours and provided supplemental benefits. Through collective bargaining and grievance procedures, they have brought justice and democracy to the shop floor." - John F. Kennedy, speech, Aug. 30, 1962
Public Perception in Political Cartoons
Impact of the Unions
Teddy Roosevelt
Nicknamed Teddy the "Trust Buster", he wanted to be referred as a "Trust Regulator". He did, though, take on the Robber Barons in an attempt to stand up for the consumer and common person. How successful was he? What other successes did he have? Check out the resources to find out about the president that might have had the biggest personality of all.
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