The Great Leaders of 19th Century Industry

The 19th Century was a prolific time for our young nation. The United States defined themselves in many ways during the first hundred years after the ratification of the Constitution. The end of the century found many Americans adapting to a new way of life working in factories and living in cities with a new and diverse population, but a few found a way to conquer the new America built of steam and steel. These people were some of the richest the world has ever known. Their contributions to society were extensive, but everything that was built came at a price. Were these wealthy entrepreneurs the heralded Captains of Industry or the reviled Robber Barons?

This site is a class symposium devoted to the discussion of the impact some of these entreprenuers had on American society.

Please click on the student links at left to discover more about the discussion.