Industrialization's Impact on Social Classes & Labor

Middle-Class and Working-Class Neighborhoods in the Industrial Age

Middle-Class Neighborhoods

Middle-class neighborhoods were extensions of the historic city center, built far away from the noise and pollution of the factories. They were well-planned with straight, wide avenues, gas street lights, shops, theaters, and tram lines. Homes were usually large, well-built, and comfortable, sometimes with several floors.

Working-Class Neighborhoods

Working-class neighborhoods were built in marginal areas on the outskirts of the city, often near factories. The streets were narrow and not well-planned, and there was usually no lighting or other public services. The houses in these areas were usually small, poorly built, and uncomfortable.

Industrialization's Impact on Different Social Classes

A) The Bourgeoisie and the Proletariat

For bourgeois capitalists, industrialization brought greater profits. They acquired an improved standard of living, with advantages such as comfortable homes, good education for their children, healthcare, and leisure activities. The working class worked and lived in terrible conditions. It was in response to these working conditions that the first working-class political movements emerged during the 19th century.

B) Industrial Working Conditions

Industrial working conditions in factories were generally dangerous and unhealthy:

• Machinery in most factories was unprotected, and accidents and injuries were a common occurrence.
• A typical working day was an exhausting 14 to 16 hours long, but wages were low. As a consequence, young children often worked to increase the family income.
• Employers could dismiss or fine workers without restrictions.
• Workers did not have the right to protest or go on strike.
• There was no social insurance or benefits to help workers in cases of illness, accident, or unemployment.

C) Protests and Opposition

Harsh working conditions led to protests against factory owners. These owners opposed workers' demands because they thought that improving conditions would be bad for business and reduce their profits. Governments did not support workers' rights either. For example, some governments banned workers' associations.

D) The First Working-Class Movements

In 1811, the Luddites emerged. This group was an early manifestation of organized working-class protest. They were hostile to new technology.