Which of the following was a feature of the Gilded Age?

The Gilded Age, spanning from the 1870s to about 1900, was characterized by significant industrial growth and expansion in the United States. One of the defining features of this period was the massive investment in industries such as steel, railroads, and textiles. This investment was driven by technological advancements, an increase in production capabilities, and a growing domestic market. Major industrialists and entrepreneurs emerged during this time, significantly transforming the American economy.

The implications of massive industrial investment included urbanization, as people moved to cities seeking jobs in factories. This period also saw the rise of monopolies and large corporations, which changed the landscape of business and economics in America. Such trends contributed to the development of a consumer culture and the establishment of the United States as an industrial powerhouse.

Other options, such as a decline in immigration, promotion of agrarian reforms, and a reduction of urban populations, do not accurately reflect the realities of the Gilded Age. In fact, immigration surged during this time, as many people sought economic opportunities in the rapidly industrializing United States, while urban populations grew due to the influx of workers necessary for industrial production.