In 1890, three-quarters of women in the workforce were single. For some, remaining unmarried was the first step towards independence. Support for this attitude was seen in the work place, in fashion, and in recreation. The US would remain in this depression until gold was discovered in the Yukon in 1896 and the Klondike Gold Rush revived the American economy. Pennsylvania saw 25% unemployment, New York 35%, and in Michigan 43%. Within the year, 15,000 businesses closed and unemployment skyrocketed. The newspapers referred to the economic down turn as "The Panic of 1893". This was so common that eventually the Federal Gold Reserves were depleted to their minimum allowed holdings. So many exchanged their silver notes in for gold bars. ![]() ![]() Instead, people feared that if silver prices fell, their money would be worth less. The hope was this would solidify or even strengthen the worth of silver. A law which increased the amount of silver the government bought. These bankruptcies caused 500Sherman Silver Purchase Act. The over production of railroads caused the bankruptcy of several rail road companies. In 1893 the US economy crashed because of two major factors railroads and silver. By the turn of the century we would listen to our news on the radio instead of reading it in the newspaper, homes will be illuminated by light bulbs not lamps, largely thanks to the General Electric cofounded by Thomas Edison, and we would order our furniture and even our homes from Sears & Roebucks mail order catalogs.ĭespite the success of these well-known companies, the mid 1890's was a time of economic strife. Though this might sound sever, this belief also meant that anyone could better themselves and their social standings if they had an innovative idea and a strong work ethic. We owe that society nothing, survival of the fittest. The concept of social Darwinism was on the rise a concept that while we all function within a society. By the 1890's, with the age of industrialization in full swing, people are just as likely to work in a factory as they are on a farm. But by 1889, the Wild West is shrinking, 50,000 people participated in the first Oklahoma land rush the US population grew over 25% in 10 years and more people than ever live in urban areas. The decade prior had been the days of Wyatt Earp and Jesse James, of Sitting Bull and Geronimo. ![]() An understanding of the economical atmosphere and social standards women experienced in the 1890 is needed. To paint a portrait of women during this time, the stage must first be set.
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