Which social class grew significantly during the Industrial Revolution?

The middle class saw significant growth during the Industrial Revolution due to various economic and social changes that occurred during this period. As industries expanded and new technologies emerged, many people began to move away from agrarian lifestyles and sought jobs in factories and urban areas. This shift created a burgeoning workforce, and the demand for skilled labor led to the rise of professionals such as factory managers, merchants, and entrepreneurs.

The increase in trade and commerce also allowed individuals to accumulate wealth, thereby elevating their social status and solidifying the middle class as a distinct and influential group within society. Their growing economic power translated into political influence, and they played a crucial role in advocating for reforms, education, and various social changes.

In contrast, the landowners and nobility, who traditionally held economic power derived from agriculture, faced challenges as wealth began to shift towards industrial enterprises. The peasant class experienced limited upward mobility during this period, often remaining in poor conditions and lacking the means to improve their situation. Overall, the Industrial Revolution reshaped class structures, and the middle class became a defining characteristic of modern society.