Everyone learned about the ruthless "robber barons" in US history.  Perhaps you have even read the article linked below (it is one of my favorites).  This time we are going to explore it from an economic perspective.  Please print out a copy of the article and bring it to class on Friday complete with your notes and underlining.  This promises to be a good discussion.


To consider when reading and responding to the post:


1.  What is the traditional view of 19th century industrialists?  Where did this view come from and to what extend is it inaccurate or inaccurate?
2.  What view does Klein attempt to put forth as a challenge to this view?  What evidence is used?
3.  Think back to your own history education?  How was the topic of industrialization treated?
4.  Pick one or two of the individuals profiled in the article and detail the alternative view of their contributions.
5.  Think about the current popular view of large banks, corporations, and billionaires in our society.  Is our current disdain for these groups any different than the popular caricature of robber barons?


Good luck.  I really like this article, so read carefully.








http://www.city-journal.org/html/5_1_a2.html