In the United States, the Industrial Revolution lasted from roughly 1790 to 1870. Because this era of industrialization lasted for nearly a century, it is difficult to give a simple answer about how a common man lived, but there were some basic elements of life that were common throughout this era for most people.
With so many factories being built, there was much work to be done. However, there were also long lines of people...
In the United States, the Industrial Revolution lasted from roughly 1790 to 1870. Because this era of industrialization lasted for nearly a century, it is difficult to give a simple answer about how a common man lived, but there were some basic elements of life that were common throughout this era for most people.
With so many factories being built, there was much work to be done. However, there were also long lines of people seeking employment to complete the work. Because of this, companies paid most workers low wages, despite many workers putting in 14-16 hour days of labor. Women received as little as half as much as men and children were paid even less.
Many workers were forced to labor in factories where little to no sunlight existed. The machines were often unsafe, which led to many accidents.
Home life was equally difficult for the common man during this period. Because wages were low, affording nice living arrangements was not realistic for many people. Often, as many as nine people would live in a single room in the slums. Because people lived in close proximity, sickness and disease spread rapidly. Lack of proper medical care led to a significant loss of life.
As the industrial era continued, some were able to elevate themselves into management positions and move themselves and their families into nicer living arrangements thanks to their higher wages. But, for the common man, working in the factory and living in the slums day after day was a grim reality.
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