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January 20, 2026

AP US History students tackle America's Gilded Age in spirited debate

On Jan. 8, AP US History students at Oyster Bay High School debated one of American history's most enduring questions: Were the industrial titans of the 19th century – figures like Andrew Carnegie and J.D. Rockefeller – visionary Captains of Industry or exploitative Robber Barons?

Working in teams, students conducted independent research to prepare their arguments, then faced off in an innovative talk show format. A student jury crafted debate questions while representatives from each side took turns in the hot seats, defending their positions on topics ranging from worker treatment to economic impact. Students even drew parallels between the Gilded Age magnates and today's tech billionaires, connecting historical patterns to contemporary issues.

Though the discussion occasionally grew heated, students maintained civility throughout, supporting their arguments with researched facts and delivering thought-provoking analysis. The experience left the class eager for their next debate, proving that the best way to understand history is to engage with it directly.
 

Four young people sit and converse in a waiting area.   Two young men converse in modern chairs, with a group of people observing in the background.   A screen displays the topic: Judging the Big Businessmen of the Late 1800s.   Two women stand near a large screen displaying historical images and text.