What is the term for the period in U.S. history marked by both technological advances and societal issues such as poverty and political corruption?

The term that describes the period in U.S. history known for significant technological advancements alongside pervasive societal issues such as poverty and political corruption is the Gilded Age. This era, which roughly spans from the 1870s to the early 1900s, saw remarkable industrial growth, urbanization, and innovations like the telegraph, railroads, and electricity. However, it was also characterized by stark economic inequality, with a growing divide between the wealthy elite and the working class, poor labor conditions, and widespread political corruption, as seen in practices like patronage and the influence of corporate interests on politics.

The term "Gilded" suggests a thin layer of gold masking underlying problems, highlighting the contrast between the apparent prosperity and the underlying social issues. This period set the stage for later reforms and movements aimed at addressing these societal concerns.

In contrast, the Progressive Era followed the Gilded Age and was focused on addressing the very problems that emerged during that time, like corruption and labor rights. The Roaring Twenties followed after World War I and is characterized more by cultural change and economic booming rather than the struggles of the Gilded Age. Meanwhile, the Great Depression refers to a much later period of severe economic downturn that began