The Gilded Age refers to a period in American history from the 1870s to the early 1900s, characterized by rapid economic growth and industrialization. This era saw the rise of major industries, such as steel and railroads, and significant figures like Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller became prominent. However, this prosperity often masked social issues, including poor working conditions and income inequality. During the Gilded Age, urbanization increased as people moved to cities for jobs, leading to overcrowded living conditions. The era also witnessed the rise of labor unions advocating for workers' rights and reforms. Despite its challenges, the Gilded Age laid the foundation for modern America.