Q? To what extent was new technology responsible for America's post-Civil War economic boom.

Large Extent True-The U.S. had past Great Britain in industrial output by 1890 mainly because the inventions of the era enabled businesses to create more products at a fast pace than the competition. A national shortage of labor called for more efficient machinery which required better technology to be created. Logistics also drastically improved in the Gilded Age with the use of telegraphs, steamships and railroads. In the 1880s electricity was invented increasing the speed of advancement even more. Scientists in the Gilded Age made many discoveries such as sewing machines, type-writers, light bulbs or cameras. These products inspired new creations and created a new market just for themselves.

Small Extent True- America's financial successes after the Civil War were brought on more by Reconstruction and the creation of well organized business then improvements in technology. Businesses such as Standard Oil would have been prosperous with or without much of the new technology coming out. While technology was successful in improving production time and logistics, the financial boom was due to the organized workforce and successful business owners.