American Middle Class - Essay Example

Progressive ideas saw the transformation of a major sector of the American economy. The presidents who were elected during this period were progressive. Progressive idea was to transform and advance major sectors of America in terms of technology, high level of education, wiping out corruption and revival of infrastructure. This paper seeks to discuss the impact of industrialization on America middle class in the last half of the 19th century (1865-1915). After maintenance of relative stability, people from Caribbean’s, Latin America, and West Indies migrated to America to seek new position and offered their expertise.

Moreover, European immigrants offered expertise for agricultural and industrial expansion. Consequently, there was rapid economic growth in all sectors of America economy mostly in the north and the west. This also saw an increase in income of the American middle class. Relative peace was also achieved in the southern part after the defeat and failure of the secessionist movement. The American middle class had an opportunity to fight corruption as a majority joined the progressive party (McGeehan and Gall 121).

Industrialization was of significance to the United States of America. It was generally referred to, as industrial revolution. Industrialization in America was change from homemade production to the technological use of machine and industry dependence. The most important invention in America was the invention of the weaving and spinning machine. Initially, the machine was operated on water but later invention of steam led to its replacement. America’s growth rate improved significantly to same level as its competitors such as Britain.

This led to transformation of America from a small economy into a modern urban industrial state. At the same time, there was a significant transformation of American society especially the middle class (Hillstrom and Laurie 111-118). Before the rise of the industrial revolution in America, Britain was the major producer and supplier of manufactured goods. However, late 19th century and early 20th century saw the emergence of America. In the late 1800’s, America became a major producer and supplier of manufactured goods overcoming Britain.

New sources of market were available, hence, easy supply to new areas. More importantly, America is a country endowed with great natural resources. Therefore, America did not rely on any country for supply of raw materials for its industries like other countries that were going through industrial revolution at the period. The major raw materials that existed and still exist in America are coal, iron ore, copper, lead, timber, and oil. Coal was significantly used in provision of energy for the industries.

Moreover, there was abundant and cheap supply of labor. The period between 1865 and 1900 saw a high migration of people to America especially Europeans, West Indies, Caribbean’s and Latin Americans. High population of immigrants looking for industrial jobs made labor cheap and hence industries made huge profit. Additionally, this period saw the emergence of America middle class. There was improved income and high amount of wage. Consequently, this provided capital for expansion of America business.

This provided a large group of consumers of manufactured goods. The development of new technology ensured that the cost of productivity was low,