The Gilded Age – The Real One

Thur, Oct 8

2:45-4pm

with Richard Klein

There is currently running on cable TV a wonderful series called The Gilded Age, which explores the interpersonal relationships of characters who supposedly lived during this period. Most are completely fictional, but some are based on real-life people. This course will explore the real Gilded Age, which covered from 1870 to the early 1900s. The course really has nothing to do with the TV series except for an occasional reference. While the term “Gilded Age” conjures up the concept of great wealth, there was so much more to this remarkable and controversial period. Along with great wealth, there was crippling poverty in addition to great advancements and growth. From the titans of industry and business to the philanthropists who gave so much of themselves and their resources, this was truly a magical time. Richard is an amateur historian.