What did the term "Gilded Age" refer to in American history?

The term "Gilded Age" refers to a period in American history, roughly from the 1870s to around 1900, characterized by rapid economic growth, particularly in the North and West, as well as a dramatic expansion of the industrial economy. This era saw significant advancements in technology and transportation, which fueled the growth of manufacturing and commerce.

During the Gilded Age, the United States transitioned from a predominantly agrarian society to an increasingly urban and industrial one. Massive waves of immigration contributed to the labor force, enabling factories and industries to flourish. Cities expanded rapidly, and railroads became crucial to the nation's economic development. However, it's important to note that this period was also marked by stark social divisions, labor disputes, and corruption, which were often overshadowed by the glitz of economic success, hence the term "gilded," suggesting a superficial brilliance that masked underlying issues.

While significant social reforms emerged later, especially during the Progressive Era that followed, the Gilded Age is primarily associated with economic expansion rather than social or cultural movements. The years of international conflict and cultural renaissance described in some of the other options do not encapsulate the primary focus of the Gilded Age as understood by historians.