In this lecture, Professor Totten argues massive industries dominated the Gilded Age. These businesses grew due to the hard work and brilliance of their leaders, as well as oppressive business practices that ground the common man under their foot. Horizontal and Vertical integration were integral to this process. The owners of these firms, alternatively called "Robber Barons" or "Captains of Industries," by their supporters or detractors, believed in Social Darwinism, though they also engaged in philanthropic activities. In opposition to Social Darwinism, reformers began the "Social Gospel Movement" which argued that it was a Christian duty to help reform society and make it fit for the return of the Kingdom of Heaven. With increased hardship among American workers, the federal government took limited steps to regulate business, but these attempts often undercut unions. Next lecture, Professor Totten will describe the working conditions for the American worker that motivated Progressive reformers to push for greater regulation at the turn of the 20th century.

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