Higher institutions of learning such as colleges and universities also began to spring up throughout America and were usually the products of religious institutions (whereas public schools were usually state funded and supported). Reform in education would prove to provide the skills and education necessary for coming generations to innovate industry.
As the 19th century progressed the country's population continued to flourish. From four million in 1790, America's population had reached 32 million by 1860. This was due in part to the influx of immigrants entering the country, thus the overall rise in population during the era of reform was due more to incoming foreigners than to natural increase. Most immigrants came as young adults ready to work, taking a hand not only in labor but also special knowledge of production methods useful in agriculture or industry. This rapid increase in population led millions of Americans to flock towards cities in search of employment and a better life. This migration led to the development of urban life throughout America. The rapid growth in urban areas was not matched by the growth of services; clean water, trash removal, and housing all lagged behind, and the wealthy got them first. .
By 1860, the value of industrial output had surpassed that of agricultural production. This period witnessed a dramatic decline in the proportion of the labor force engaged in agriculture, and in increase of people working in industries and factories. Most industrial production occurred in the northeastern and middle states (this region also housed the bulk of America's major cities and ports). Between 1830 and 1860 the level of technology used in American industry and manufacturing began to develop as steps were taken towards modernization. This period was highlighted by several innovations and inventions that increased industrial output and made work much easier. Inventions such as Goodyear's process of vulcanizing rubber, Howe's sewing machine, McCormick's mechanical reaper, and John Deere's steel plow revolutionized their respective industries.