Gilded Age America was a time of rapid industrialization, economic growth, and massive wealth—but beneath the surface, it was also an era of corruption, inequality, and social struggles.

In this episode of The U.S. History Curriculum Companion, we explore the Gilded Age, a period marked by the rise of powerful industrialists like Rockefeller and Carnegie, the growth of monopolies, and the struggles of workers in a changing economy. We’ll examine the impact of immigration, urbanization, political corruption, and the efforts of labor unions and reformers to address the challenges of the era. From towering skyscrapers to tenement slums, this episode reveals the opportunities and hardships of America’s industrial boom.

This episode is designed to accompany our Gilded Age unit plan for our American History curriculum, which includes resources and lessons designed for middle school and high school classrooms.

Students of History provides engaging lessons and resources for every unit in American History, along with World History, Civics & Government, and World Geography. You can learn more at StudentsofHistory.com.