Chapter IX: Machines, Men, and Socialism Summary and Analysis

America emerged as the industrial leader of the world during the greatest industrial expansion of all time in the years following the war, 1865 through 1914. The era placed great demands on labor and the importance and power of labor unions grew.

1. Revolutionary Challenge

America tripled in population during the years 1860 and 1914 but the labor force grew at a pace of over five times during the same period. As industry expanded, railroads were expanded across the nation. America had more success during the industrial revolution compared to European countries because of the seemingly endless natural resources of land, coal, iron, copper, precious metals, lumber—all rich and seemingly untapped. Although the construction of railroads and other trends towards a more robust manufacturing economy were begun before the War, afterward efforts were resumed...