Objective 2.7 -- Mass Culture in the Gilded Age

Summary

This video explores the vibrant cultural landscape of America during the Gilded Age, highlighting significant developments from 1890 to 1920. It discusses the rise of mass education, the emergence of leisure activities, and the popularity of baseball and amusement parks. Key innovations, like Coca-Cola and department stores, transformed consumer habits, while literary contributions from authors like Mark Twain flourished. The video emphasizes how these changes laid the foundation for modern American culture, making the Gilded Age a pivotal era that shaped societal norms and leisure pursuits.

Takeaways

• 🏙️ Main Street USA at Disneyland reflects the Gilded Age, showcasing its sights, sounds, and social dynamics.
• 📚 The U.S. literacy rate reached 90% by 1890, prompting educational reforms and expanded access for minority students.
• 🎓 College enrollment quadrupled by 1920, leading to the establishment of research institutions and a more skilled workforce.
• 🎠 Amusement parks, like Coney Island, emerged as leisure activities became popular, offering entertainment away from urban life.
• ⚾ Baseball became America's pastime, with the first World Series played in 1903, marking a significant cultural milestone.
• 🥤 Coca-Cola was introduced as a soft drink during the Gilded Age, originally marketed as a headache remedy.
• 🍫 Hershey's chocolate gained popularity and became a staple treat for Americans during this period.
• 🛍️ Catalog shopping through companies like Sears revolutionized retail, allowing consumers to order goods from home.
• 📖 The Gilded Age produced notable literary works, with Mark Twain becoming one of America's most famous authors.
• 💼 The era transformed American culture and consumer behavior, laying the groundwork for modern society.

Q & A

What historical period does Main Street USA at Disneyland represent?

Main Street USA at Disneyland is designed to reflect the Gilded Age, specifically the early 1900s.

What significant achievement did the Wright brothers accomplish by 1903?

The Wright brothers achieved powered flight in 1903 in Kittyhawk, North Carolina.

How did education reform during the Gilded Age impact American society?

Education reform led to a 90% literacy rate and increased schooling for children, including those from immigrant families, although segregation meant African-American children often attended separate schools.

What leisure activities became popular during the Gilded Age?

Popular leisure activities included visiting amusement parks, playing spectator sports like baseball, and engaging in do-it-yourself sports such as bicycling and tennis.

What was Coca-Cola originally marketed as, and how did its perception change?

Coca-Cola was initially marketed as a cure for headaches, but it soon became popular simply for its taste.

Who was the 'Gibson Girl,' and what did she symbolize?

The 'Gibson Girl' was an image of the modern, glamorous woman during the Gilded Age, representing a shift in societal ideals regarding femininity.

How did retail change during the Gilded Age?

Retail transformed with the emergence of catalog shopping, department stores, and chain stores, providing consumers with a wide variety of products in one place.

What role did Mark Twain play in American literature during the Gilded Age?

Mark Twain is considered one of the most famous authors of the Gilded Age, with his works reflecting the era's themes and cultural dynamics.

What was the significance of the World Series, and when was the first one played?

The World Series, first played in 1903, was significant as it established baseball as America's pastime and marked the beginning of organized championship play in the sport.

In what ways did the Gilded Age revolutionize American culture?

The Gilded Age revolutionized American culture by fostering consumerism, expanding educational opportunities, increasing leisure activities, and producing influential literature.