How Did The Industrial Revolution Affect The Working Class

The Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century, marked a significant period of transformation that had a profound impact on society. It introduced new manufacturing processes and machines that led to increased production and significant economic growth. However, the impact of this revolution on the working class is a matter of debate. This paper aims to answer the question, "What was the impact of the Industrial Revolution on the working class?" by exploring its economic, social, and political implications in depth.

The Industrial Revolution marked a significant shift in the way goods were produced. New machines were invented, leading to increased productivity and output. However, these changes had far-reaching consequences

This culture was characterized by crowded and unsanitary living conditions, long working hours, and a lack of safety measures. As Friedrich Engels notes in his book The Condition of the Working-Class in England in 1844, "The working-class lived in houses which were unfit for human habitation, houses built to replace others which had been destroyed in the course of 'improvements,' and which were not intended to be permanent dwellings"

The rise of industrial capitalism led to a shift in power from the traditional aristocracy to the emerging industrial class. The working class, however, remained largely disenfranchised and excluded from political power. As historian Joel Mokyr notes in his book The Industrial Revolution, "Industrial capitalism created a new class of entrepreneurs and capitalists who increasingly challenged the dominance of the landed aristocracy, but the working class remained largely powerless" (168). This led to the growth of labor unions and other social movements aimed at improving the working conditions of the working class. These movements fought for better wages, working hours, and safety measures. As E.P. Thompson notes in his book The Making of the English Working Class, "The working class began to organize itself for the defense of its rights and interests, and trade unions, friendly societies, and political associations sprang up throughout the country"