Lesson 5: Intellectual and Cultural Movements 

Gospel of Wealth / Philanthropy

Carnegie's most well-known philanthropic endeavor was funding the construction of public libraries across the United States and other countries. From 1883 to 1929, Carnegie funded the construction of around 2,509 libraries, with the goal of providing free access to knowledge and education. 

Development of the Middle Class

• New business structure

• Higher wages and fewer hours worked

• More time and money for other things ... AND there's more things, like electricity (lights / transportation), typewriter, phonograph, Kodak camera, etc.

Typewriter

The typewriter played a pivotal role in transforming office work. It led to the creation of the modern office environment with typists, secretaries, and administrative staff. Businesses and organizations became more structured, and the demand for skilled typists increased. The rise of the typewriter coincided with a significant increase in female employment in clerical and administrative roles. Women became key contributors to the workforce, and the typewriter played a role in breaking down gender barriers in certain professions. 

More Leisure Time

• Concerts, board games, cycling, amusement parks, theater and vaudeville, amateur sports, etc.

• Coney Island