The consumer culture that developed in the late 1800s was characterized by the rise of department stores and chains, the popularity of mail-order catalogs, the practice of buying on credit, and the need to save for expensive goods. This culture shaped patterns of consumption, accessibility to products, and the emergence of a middle class.
Step-by-step explanation:
The consumer culture that developed in the late 1800s was characterized by several factors:
Department stores and chains rose in popularity because of the variety of products they carried and the convenience they offered shoppers.
Mail-order catalogs became increasingly popular, allowing consumers from all parts of the country to have access to new products.
Consumers began buying on credit and getting into debt as stores offered the option to open accounts and purchase without cash.
Consumers who wanted to buy expensive goods often needed to save until they could afford the full amount.
The rise of consumerism during this time led to increased access to goods, changes in shopping patterns, and the growth of a middle class. However, it also brought risks of debt and the idea that purchasing the right products could lead to a better lifestyle.