Why is the period of the Second Industrial Revolution also called the Gilded Age?

The period of the Second Industrial Revolution is often referred to as the Gilded Age due to the significant economic growth and the ostentatious wealth that characterized the era, particularly in the United States during the late 19th century. The term "gilded" implies a superficial layer of gold, suggesting that beneath the glittering surface of prosperity lay deep social issues such as inequality, corruption, and labor exploitation. This period saw the rise of industrial magnates and vast fortunes, while many workers endured poor conditions, highlighting the stark contrasts of wealth and poverty. The Gilded Age thus encapsulates both the remarkable advancements of the time and the societal challenges they obscured.