During the Industrialization period, big business was at an all time high. Entrepreneurs like Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, and JP Morgan were building their personal wealth at an alarming rate. Industry was booming! Was this good for the American people?
Some argued that leaders in big business were “Robber Barons”, or people who unfairly ended competition amongst businesses by forming monopolies. Americans were replaceable instruments in factories and did not benefit from the profits of their bosses.
On the other hand, some believed that the leaders of big business were “Captains of Industry” who built the American economy and created job opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers. Without these innovative tycoons, Americans would have fewer chances to gain their own wealth.
Was big business good or bad for the nation? Were Andrew Carnegie, John D. Rockefeller, and JP Morgan examples of "Robber Barons" or were they "Captains of Industry"? Explain your response in detail, provide examples and evidence to support your reasoning.
