THE GILDED AGE

The Free Enterprise System a system in which private businesses are able to compete with each other with little control by the government. But what’s the role of government? Some people think government regulation is necessary to protect the public interest and keep the national economy in balance. To others, free enterprise symbolizes the freedom of the American economic system, which benefits all. Thus, government regulations of business limits freedom.

Entrepreneur Entrepreneurs are people who own their own business, take responsibility for the organization and operation of a business venture. Entrepreneurs often take financial risks in the hopes of making big profits. What role do you think the entrepreneur wants the government to play in a free enterprise system?

Gilded To be covered by a thin layer of gold. Looks nice on the outside, but bad on the inside. In 1873, Mark Twain coined the term “Gilded Age” to describe the time period. What insight might his use of the term “gilded” give you about the time period?

Can you identify the following modern entrepreneurs?

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Match the following great entrepreneurs from the Gilded Age to their respective industry.

Thomas Edison

John D. Rockefeller

J.P. Morgan

Andrew Carnegie