What social changes were brought about by the Industrial Revolution?

The Industrial Revolution significantly transformed society, leading to the establishment of a distinct working class and a notable shift towards urbanization. As industries grew and factories were built, people migrated from rural areas to cities in search of employment opportunities. This movement created a new social class comprised of factory workers who played a crucial role in the economy, contributing to industrial production.

Urbanization was a direct consequence of the demand for labor in factories, which led to the rapid growth of towns and cities. This shift from agrarian lifestyles to urban living changed social dynamics, patterns of work, and the overall way people interacted with one another. The working class began to develop its own identity and collective consciousness, often forming labor unions to advocate for better working conditions and rights.

These changes marked a departure from previous social structures, where agrarian communities were predominant and family roles were often more stable and traditional. The rise of factories and industrial jobs disrupted these traditional roles, as many families adapted to new economic realities.