The Gilded Age was a time of economic growth, innovation, and industrialization. Following the American Civil War the country went through the process of Reconstruction in which the South rejoined the Union and new social policies were implemented to bring about a peaceful transition. While industrialization in the North had become the major source of income for businesses in the south business remained primarily agricultural.

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The northern businessmen were able to take advantage of booming industries such as railroads, mining, and finance to earn their millions. Labor unions began to form during this time. If there was ever a time to be in business in America, it was during the Gilded Age, an age that saw its fair share of social injustices, while at the same time eventually brought about revolutionary tariff and monetary policies within the United States. The Gilded Age was the age of economic growth, industrialization and social upheaval as the country struggled to return to its former glory.