Robber Barons and Labour Unions · US History

The term 'Robber Baron' was primarily used by critics of the Gilded Age to describe industrialists who:

  1. Donated the majority of their wealth to religious institutions
  2. Used ruthless tactics to eliminate competition and exploit workers
  3. Advocated for the government ownership of all heavy industries
  4. Refused to adopt any new technologies like the Bessemer steel process
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Correct answer: Used ruthless tactics to eliminate competition and exploit workers

The term implied that these men gained their fortunes through corrupt practices, such as bribery, predatory pricing, and paying extremely low wages. It contrasted with the more positive 'Captains of Industry' label used by their supporters.

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