The term "Gilded Age" refers to a period in American history from the 1870s to about 1900, characterized by rapid economic growth, industrialization, and the expansion of urban centers. Coined by Mark Twain, who used the term to critique the era's superficial prosperity, the Gilded Age was marked by stark contrasts between wealth and poverty. It saw the rise of powerful industrialists and significant innovations in technology and infrastructure, while also facing issues such as labor unrest, corruption, and social inequalities. The era laid the groundwork for progressive reforms in the early 20th century aimed at addressing these disparities.