Fashion (c. 1883):
While it is certainly true that the period was marked by the stark formality and delineationof the classes:
For many the antebellum period served as a means for females to begin experimenting with sexual roles and fashion, provided by new technologies and political freedoms:
Step Elevators/Moving Platforms (c.1890):
For many it was also a period wherein public works and transportation were adapted in an effort to allow children and the elderly to act as partipating members of society, as seen by the step elevators/moving sidewalks which lined most major metropolitan areas:
Art/Musicals (c.1888):
Scientific/Medical Technology (c.1876):
Much of science and medical technologu was adapted to the idea of creating psychological as well as social stability, in an effort to "promote the general welfare". It was only with the advance of new technologies was the nature of these technologies placed into question:
Warfare (c.1898):
While the period was marked as a "Golden Age", many colonial conflicts and proxy wars continued throughout the antebellum period. It was hoped that the ferocity of new weapons systems would persuade people against the march to war. It was also believed that the "social realism" of cultures would prevent leaders from entering into a major conflict.