Question

Which of the following counterclaims would a supporter of wealthy Americans like JP Morgan offer in response to the supporting question, “How did people live in the Gilded Age?”
A.
Even though there was a wide gap between rich and poor, especially in the way they lived, that was the result of hard work and determination by the rich.
B.
Because most Americans lived comfortable lives, it was the responsibility of the poor to support and care for those who were more fortunate.
C.
While many Americans did live in poverty and unfortunate conditions, it was not the responsibility of the wealthy to help them with charity and philanthropy.
D.
Until the gap between rich and poor became too wide, people lived however they wanted and their living conditions were the result of their choices.

Answer 1

A supporter of wealthy Americans like JP Morgan might best offer the counterclaim:

**A. Even though there was a wide gap between rich and poor, especially in the way they lived, that was the result of hard work and determination by the rich.**

This response defends the idea that wealth accumulation is justly earned through individual effort and success, which is a common perspective among supporters of capitalism and the wealthy elite during the Gilded Age.