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Government and business corrupton
The government practiced laissez-faire economics. This meant they did not get involved in the economy. This benefited big business. In addition, there was many instances of corruption by the government. -
monopolies
Companies emerged during this era that sought to eliminate or get rid of competition. These companies formed monopolies or a company which controls a product or industry like John Rockefeller and the oil business. Monopolies put all others out of business giving them an unfair advantage. -
unhealthy and dangerous working conditions
The Gilded Age saw a rise in unhealthy and dangerous working conditions. Most factory owners and bosses were more concerned with profit than worker safety. -
problems with the environment
industrialization brought increased production but also increased pollution. This pollution started to negatively impact the environment. In addition, Americans were exploiting their natural resources by depleting the finite amount available. -
low wages
In the gilded age, workers worked 60 hours a week for a salary of 10 cents an hour. Courts were not sympathetic to work claims, so hardly any injured people or deaths recovered on claims.
