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Building an Empire: An Exploration of American Business, Politics, and Society from 1846 to 1917

John Keats

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Published in The Pennsylvania Railroad Volume 1: Building An Empire 1846 1917 (American Business Politics And Society)

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"Building an Empire: American Business, Politics, and Society, 1846-1917" is an authoritative and thought-provoking work that delves into the complex interplay between business, politics, and society during a pivotal period in American history.

The Rise of Industrial Capitalism

The mid-19th century witnessed the rapid expansion of industrial capitalism in the United States. Technological advancements, such as the steam engine and the telegraph, revolutionized transportation and communication, enabling businesses to reach new markets and scale their operations.

The Pennsylvania Railroad, Volume 1: Building an Empire, 1846-1917 (American Business, Politics, and Society)

by Albert J. Churella

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21742 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	969 pages

The growth of industry led to the emergence of powerful corporations, such as Standard Oil and Carnegie Steel, which wielded immense economic and political influence. These corporations often engaged in unethical practices, such as price fixing and labor exploitation, prompting public outcry and government intervention.

Political Transformations

The rise of industrial capitalism had a significant impact on American politics. Economic issues became increasingly salient, leading to the formation of new political parties, such as the Populist Party, which advocated for the interests of farmers and laborers.

Political machines, such as Tammany Hall in New York City, played a pivotal role in urban politics, controlling elections and dispensing patronage. These machines often had close ties to business interests, further blurring the lines between politics and commerce.

Social and Cultural Change

The rapid industrialization and urbanization of the United States in the late 19th century brought about profound social and cultural changes. The influx of immigrants from Europe and Asia transformed the demographic landscape of American cities.

Social tensions arose between the newly arrived immigrants and established Protestant elites. Nativism and racism gained traction, leading to discrimination and violence against immigrants and minorities.

The Progressive Era

As the 20th century approached, a growing sense of unease with the excesses of industrial capitalism and political corruption fueled the Progressive Era. Reformers sought to curb the power of corporations, protect the environment, and promote social justice.

The Progressive movement enacted a wide range of reforms, including antitrust laws to break up monopolies, labor laws to improve working conditions, and the establishment of the Federal Reserve to stabilize the financial system.

World War I and the End of an Era

The outbreak of World War I in 1914 had a profound impact on American society. The United States initially remained neutral, but the sinking of the Lusitania in 1915 and Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare led to America's entry into the war in 1917.

The war accelerated the growth of the federal government and further strengthened the alliance between business and the state. Industrial production expanded to meet wartime needs, creating new opportunities for workers and investors.

"Building an Empire: American Business, Politics, and Society, 1846-1917" is a comprehensive and nuanced examination of a critical period in American history. It provides a deep understanding of the interplay between business, politics, and society, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that shaped the United States as a nation.

Building An Empire: American Business, Politics, And Society, 1846 1917 By [Author's Name] The Pennsylvania Railroad Volume 1: Building An Empire 1846 1917 (American Business Politics And Society)

Additional Features

- Extensive endnotes and bibliography for further research - Timeline of key events - Biographical sketches of prominent figures - Glossary of important terms

The Pennsylvania Railroad, Volume 1: Building an Empire, 1846-1917 (American Business, Politics, and Society)

by Albert J. Churella

4.7 out of 5