Which is the best description of the impact of capitalism and industrialization on the american public during the gilded age? a) during the gilded age, the south was still reeling from reconstruction and lacked economic stability and infrastructure. b) with new conveniences, reasonably priced consumer goods, and relatively steady pay, americans were better off than most of the world. c) because of the rise of monopolies during the gilded age, the american economy underwent periods of recession and depression that did not end until 1918. d) in the post-civil war period, corporations became larger and more powerful through mergers and monopolies and had a greater influence on american politics.