Pullman's critics argued that he was a "robber baron" because he:
* Exploited his workers: Pullman's workers were paid low wages and worked long hours in dangerous conditions. They also lived in company-owned housing, which was often overcrowded and unsanitary.
* Suppressed labor unions: Pullman was opposed to labor unions and used a variety of tactics to prevent his workers from organizing. He fired workers who tried to unionize, blacklisted union members, and hired strikebreakers.
* Used government power to his advantage: Pullman had close relationships with politicians and used his influence to get favorable treatment for his company. He received government subsidies, land grants, and tax breaks.
Pullman's critics argued that his actions were exploitative and that he cared more about profits than about the well-being of his workers. They believed that he was a symbol of the excesses of capitalism and that he represented a threat to the American way of life.
Pullman's supporters, on the other hand, argued that he was a visionary businessman who helped to shape the American economy. They pointed out that he created jobs, provided housing for his workers, and improved the quality of transportation. They also argued that he was a philanthropist who donated money to charities and supported educational institutions.
Despite the controversy surrounding him, Pullman remains an important figure in American history. His contributions to the transportation industry were significant, and he helped to shape the way that Americans traveled. His legacy, however, is also one of exploitation and labor conflict.