Economic Conditions:
- Economic disparity was significant. The wealthy lived in luxury while the majority of the population faced financial struggles.
- The Panic of 1873 led to a prolonged economic depression. Many were out of work, and those with jobs faced decreased wages.
Urban Living:
- Cities were overcrowded, with poor sanitation and hygiene leading to widespread diseases like cholera and typhoid fever.
- Tenement housing was common, with multiple families sharing small, cramped spaces with inadequate ventilation.
Rural Life:
- Living conditions in rural areas were often challenging, with limited access to healthcare and education.
- Many rural farmers struggled to make ends meet, facing debts and the harsh realities of agricultural life.
Technological Advancements:
- Despite challenges, technological advancements brought some improvements.
- The telegraph and the telephone allowed for better communication, and electricity began to be used in urban areas.
Social Injustice:
- Discrimination based on race, gender, and class was rampant. There were widespread prejudices against immigrants, African Americans, and Native Americans.
Overall, living conditions in 1877 varied significantly depending on social class and location, with poor sanitation, poverty, and economic struggles being prevalent challenges for many.