The American Industrial Revolution
How it Damaged Society and Negatively Impacted America
Background Information
The Industrial Revolution began in the 1700s, when machines and workers in factories quickly took over many hand tools. This drastic change brought work to numerous people and provided most of the technology and inventions we have today. However, the negative impact on people’s lives, far outweighed the positive aspects of the Industrial Revolution.
Dangerous Factory Conditions
One unjustifiable outgrowth of the Industrial Revolution was it’s ruthlessly dangerous working conditions. Factories were often very dirty and workers became exposed to the dangerous chemicals. This caused workers to develop severe lung diseases such as pneumonia and tuberculosis.
Child Labor
Low pay
Conclusion
While the Industrial Revolution provided more jobs, produced more goods, and created better forms of transportation and communication, these benefits did not apply to the average working-class person. In fact the majority of people suffered in spite of these “benefits”. While wealthy industrialists had improved lives and conditions, to most, the Industrial Revolution brought hazardous working conditions, child labor, poor health, and poverty.
Citations
- Dangerous Factory Conditions: http://cdn.loc.gov/service/pnp/nclc/01100/01171r.jpg
- Child Labor: http://cdn.loc.gov/service/pnp/nclc/00000/00051r.jpg
- Low Pay: http://www.loc.gov/pictures/resource/nclc.01912/?co=nclc
Information Obtained From:
- http://www.loc.gov/resource/rbpe.01805500/?sp=1
- Iqbal Masih Video
- Lucy Larcom Primary Source pages 382-383
- Document 2 of The New Nation
About Hana Halff
Specializes in the Industrial Revolution
Email: Hanasmadcool@gmail.com
Website: socialstudiesclass.com
Phone: 206-554-4262