Which was more significant to Gilded

Age political corruption, patronage or

'the power of big business? Consider

your reading on both industrialization

and politics. Defend your answer with

specific evidence.

The answer is: the power of big businesses.

Explanation:

The Gilded Age (late 19th century) was an "age of transformation," a change in America's economy, social customs and government. The growth of the country's economy was rapid and cities expanded. Because of technological advancements such as the telephone, typewriter and the light bulb, the industrial sector became more productive. This attracted many businessmen who were eager to gain more profit, which resulted into a situation of monopoly.

These businessmen could gain an easy access to the Senate, who were responsible for implementing the nation's laws. They were favored by the Senate by giving them a favorable tariff and a businessman-friendly policy. Thus, it made the monopolists even stronger. This shows how the big businesses played a role in terms of politics and industrialization.

This is the reason why the power of the big businesses was more significant to the Gilded Age.