Introduction
American society was significantly impacted by industrialization, both positively and negatively. The expansion of cities due to people moving from rural to urban areas in search of work in factories and other industrial establishments was one of the most significant changes (Haraguchi et al., 2019). Industrialization increased production, which boosted economic growth by creating wealth and jobs that improved many Americans’ living standards. It, however, also had detrimental effects on society, such as the exploitation of workers, deterioration of the environment, and an increase in poverty and inequality.
Who Did Industrialization Help or Hurt
Owners of factories and other industrial facilities benefited from industrialization because it allowed them to increase their profits through the use of cutting-edge technologies and the exploitation of laborers. It was detrimental to workers, including those in low-skilled positions who frequently had to work for long hours for little pay in dangerous and unsanitary conditions. Moreover, these low-skilled workers had no legal protection, which made it simpler for their employers to take advantage of and mistreat them without being held accountable.
How Did Industrialization Shape the Middle Class and Its Values
The middle class started to form its own distinct set of values and ideals as it expanded and became more established. As skilled workers were given new opportunities by industrialization, the middle class grew and eventually became the foundation of American society. This impacted middle-class values, which included diligence, thrift, and independence. These ideals were frequently contrasted with those of the working class, who were viewed as unmotivated and lazy.
What Were Middle Class Values and How Did They Differ From Others
The strong emphasis on hard work and diligence was one of the defining characteristics of middle-class values. In addition, independence and self-sufficiency were other moral principles that were believed to be essential for achieving success. The middle class was more concerned with upward mobility and pursuing the American Dream, even though they shared some values with the upper class, such as a dedication to education and personal achievement.
Reference
Haraguchi, N., Martorano, B., & Sanfilippo, M. (2019). What factors drive successful industrialization? Evidence and implications for developing countries. Structural Change and Economic Dynamics, 49, 266-276. Web.