The + and - effects of the Industrial Revolution

             One of the most important periods in American history is the Industrial Revolution. The Industrial Revolution sparked dramatic political, economical, and social changes in the world. There were some negative effects of the Industrial Revolution and many positive effects of which are still with us to this very day. Without the benefits of an industrialized world, many aspects of business, work ethic, and the economy would cease to exist.
             It is awkward and almost scary to think of what our world would be like if the Industrial Revolution had not occurred. A very important positive effect of the Industrial Revolution was the obvious boost in the economy. The want for employees led to more jobs and the increase of production. The Industrial Revolution also meant methods in production were changed. As per capita production increased on farms, it freed many to move to cities and work in factories, which was well desired by factory employers. Social structure, patterns of work, the international balance of power, and the standard of living were changed because of the Industrial Revolution. The middle class began to rise to power and influence. Their dissatisfaction with political and economic conditions brought about change. Another important factor was the health care became more advanced. Because of things like vaccinations and other advances in medicine, the death rate decreased drastically. Inventors were inspired to create new and easy ways for things to get done. Inventions such as the spinning jenny, the steam engine, the cotton gin, the steamboat and much more changed the way people worked and increased the speed of business. The telegraph had a great effect on society and changed the way people communicate even now.
             Although there were many positive effects of the Industrial Revolution, there were plenty of negative effects also. Children had no choice but to work in factories as young as the age of five or six because of insufficient money made by the parents or a widowed mother who couldn't work and had no source of income.