Mark Twain called it the Gilded Age. Between 1870 and 1900, the United States' population doubled, accompanied by an explosion of wealth unlike any the world had ever seen. Channeling the queen of the Gilded Age herself, author Cecelia Tichi paints a portrait of New York's social elite, from the schools to which they sent their children, to their lavish mansions and even their reactions to the political and personal scandals of the day. Includes insights to Mrs. Astor's personal diary and address book, showing everything from the perfect table setting to the array of outfits the elite wore at the time. Hardcover, 352 pages.