An Influence in Time

Lasting from about the late 18th century to the early 19th century, the Industrial Revolution was not only a part of the historical timeline but it also left an extraordinary impact on the United States. The Industrial Revolution had positive and negative affects on society because it increased production but made some people poorer. The quote: "You've got to have money to make money" shows that the upper class had better luck. Between 1860 and the 1900s, 2% of the population controlled 1/3 of the country's wealth, creating a new level of living standards for the upper class. Unfortunately, the Industrial Revolution affected the lower classes who provided hard labor for little pay. Children also worked difficult hours for little earnings. Unavailability of education prevented children from preparing for a future outside of the factory. Injuries and deaths at work became all too common. Workers recieved no benefits and went on strike. Strikes created a better inlfuence for the cause because many people participated. In contrast, if one or two people did not report for work, they would be replaced and a point would not be made. The creation of Unionization, which is still used today, occurred as a result of the abuse. Large scale manufacturing became easier and cheaper, therefore making goods available to many people at a time. The Industrial Revolution was also the beginning of the oil industry. All of these changes led to a need for political reform. As businesses grew, rules were required to govern the general structure of the business. Urbanization forced the government to pay greater attention to transportation, paving, water cleanliness, street lighting and cleaning, and policing and fire protection. However, the main reason politicians tended to these issues was to get more money from local communities. Nonetheless, they were still apprectiated because they finished the job even if it was scandalous. In many ways, the Industrial Revolution was a powerful model for today's society.