Some Consequences of Industrial Revolution

Roaming Historian13 minutes read

The late 19th century saw the rise of laissez-faire ideology and government intervention favoring capitalism, leading to negative views of capitalists among workers. Social Darwinism justified social hierarchies, perpetuating consumerism and maintaining a cycle of capitalism that shaped societal norms and economic structures.

Insights

  • The government's passage of laws favoring capitalism, like the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890, contradicted the laissez-faire ideology popular in the late 19th century.
  • Social Darwinism's influence on business leaders and wealthy Americans justified social hierarchies, leading to discriminatory practices and reinforcing racial and social disparities.

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Recent questions

  • What is laissez-faire ideology?

    Hands-off government approach to the marketplace.

  • What is the Sherman Antitrust Act?

    Legislation favoring capitalism passed in 1890.

  • Who advocated the Gospel of Wealth?

    Andrew Carnegie proposed giving away wealth.

  • What is Social Darwinism?

    Theory justifying social hierarchies based on survival of the fittest.

  • How did consumerism perpetuate indebtedness?

    Mass market encouraged buying to maintain social status.

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Summary

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Rise of Capitalism in Late 19th Century

  • The late 19th century saw the rise of laissez-faire ideology, emphasizing government non-intervention in the marketplace.
  • Despite the laissez-faire concept, the government passed laws favoring capitalism, such as the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890.
  • Workers often viewed capitalists negatively, labeling them as "robber barons" due to their perceived exploitation.
  • The Gospel of Wealth, advocated by Andrew Carnegie, proposed giving away wealth during one's lifetime rather than leaving it to heirs.
  • Social Darwinism, based on survival of the fittest, was embraced by business leaders and wealthy Americans, justifying social hierarchies.
  • Social Darwinism's pyramid model reinforced racial and social hierarchies, leading to discriminatory practices and eugenics.
  • The mass market perpetuated consumerism, encouraging individuals to buy goods to maintain social status, creating a cycle of indebtedness.
  • The cycle of capitalism, fueled by consumerism and social hierarchies, kept individuals working to maintain their perceived social standing.
  • The consequences of the Industrial Revolution, including laissez-faire policies, wealth distribution, and social Darwinism, shaped societal norms and economic structures.
  • The intricate and nuanced nature of these consequences highlights the complexities of the time period, encouraging further discussion and exploration.
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