Politics in the Gilded Age Practice Test

Secondary source excerpt (Gilded Age politics, 1865–1898): “Machine organizations frequently depended on naturalized citizens and recent immigrants as a dependable voting bloc. In exchange for political loyalty, they offered help with citizenship paperwork, legal representation, and emergency aid. Nativist critics argued that such practices undermined ‘independent’ voting.”

Which factor most helps explain why immigrants were receptive to machine politics?

Secondary source excerpt (Gilded Age politics, 1865–1898): “Corporate wealth increasingly shaped politics through campaign contributions, free railroad passes for legislators, and lobbying. Critics argued that elected officials served ‘the interests’ rather than the public. Defenders claimed close ties between business and government promoted prosperity.”

Which term is most associated with the perception that business interests dominated government in this era?