Question

In the early and mid-1800s, much of the northern economy depended on a: unskilled labor supplied by immigrants. b: goods manufactured by skilled craftsmen. c: advances in agricultural technology. d: labor provided by enslaved workers.

Answer 1

The northern economy in the early and mid-1800s largely relied on goods manufactured by skilled craftsmen and the influx of immigrants who provided unskilled labor for the expanding industrial enterprises, rather than on labor provided by enslaved workers.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the early and mid-1800s, the northern economy depended significantly on manufactured goods by skilled craftsmen. This era marked a shift from artisanal, home-based production to factory-based manufacturing. Wage laborers in the North were often concerned about the job competition that could arise from both the abolition of slavery and the increasing number of immigrants, who were seen as a source of cheap labor. However, the claim that the northern economy relied on the labor provided by enslaved workers is more characteristic of the South's economy during this period.

These immigrants played a crucial role in providing the necessary unskilled labor that fueled America's growing industries. Regardless of the low wages and often unsafe conditions, the influx of immigrants helped drive the industrial expansion. Further, as industry grew, there was a demand not just for unskilled labor but also for products from skilled craftsmen, such as shoes made by a master shoemaker.

Answer 2

The answer is actually A. I just took the test