GED Social Studies TestU.S. HistoryMedium
Which of the following describes a significant social impact of the Industrial Revolution in the United States during the 19th century?
- AThe strengthening of traditional artisan crafts and guilds.
- BThe emergence of a large industrial working class facing new challenges.
- CA decline in urbanization as people moved to rural areas for farming.
- DIncreased economic equality between social classes.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The emergence of a large industrial working class facing new challenges.
The Industrial Revolution dramatically reshaped American society. It led to the growth of factories and cities, attracting large numbers of people from rural areas and abroad to work in industrial jobs, thus creating a distinct urban working class that often faced harsh conditions and low wages.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The factory system of the Industrial Revolution largely replaced traditional artisan crafts and guilds with mass production and specialized labor.
- C. The Industrial Revolution led to significant urbanization, as people moved from rural areas to cities for factory jobs, not a decline.
- D. The Industrial Revolution often exacerbated economic inequality, with significant wealth accumulating at the top while the working class struggled with low wages and poor conditions.
Social Impact of Industrial Revolution
The profound changes in social structure, demographics, and daily life resulting from the Industrial Revolution in the United States.
- Led to rapid urbanization and population growth in cities.
- Created a distinct industrial working class.
- Resulted in new social problems like poverty, poor sanitation, and child labor.
Memory trick: Industry's hum, new social sums.