The Transformation of Industrial Society: Social Classes, Aristocracy Decline, and Rise of the Bourgeoisie

A New Society: Industrial Society and Social Classes

Industrial society was divided into three social classes: the upper class with the aristocracy and the high bourgeoisie, the middle class, and the lower class. Social class was defined by wealth, and while some could move between classes, economic circumstances often made it impossible. Industrial society was based on judicial equality, with men judged by the same laws and courts. However, there was a great inequality for women, who were subordinate to men. Economic inequality separated those who had property and financial resources.

The Decline of the Aristocracy

In the nineteenth century, the aristocracy lost dominance as their rights over the peasants were abolished and they began to pay taxes.

The Emergence of the Bourgeoisie

The bourgeoisie became the most powerful class in industrial society. It consisted of industrialists, bankers, officials, and lawyers. They lived in new neighborhoods on the outskirts of cities and often attributed their wealth to their "bourgeoisie values," such as hard work, saving money, and prioritizing family security.