Final answer:
Industrialization in America led to a paramount transition from an agrarian to an industrial-based economy, which resulted in rapid urbanization and a significant increase in industrial workers. While it drove economic expansion, it also led to poor working conditions in urban factories, prompting labor reforms and societal changes across various institutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Major Effect of Industrialization on American Society
One major effect of industrialization on American society was the shift from a predominantly agrarian economy to an industrial one. This period of industrial growth led to significant urbanization, as people moved from rural areas to the cities in search of work. The discovery and usage of raw materials, along with new inventions, propelled the United States into an era of economic expansion and fundamentally changed the lives of its people.
As a result of industrialization, American society experienced a major transformation from an agricultural nation to one where industry played a central role. Technological advances such as the implementation of steam power and the development of commercial electricity by the close of the 19th century were instrumental in this change. This industrial growth quadrupled the number of industrial workers and doubled urban populations between 1880 and 1920.
However, industrialization also introduced several challenges, including poor working conditions, long hours, low pay, and health risks in growing urban centers. Efforts to improve these conditions led to the formation of labor organizations. Moreover, this shift influenced many aspects of society including government involvement in business, the global economy, political platforms, education systems, and even religions.