Final answer:
The Second Industrial Revolution brought both challenges and improvements to living conditions in cities. Industrialization and urbanization led to overcrowding and unsanitary conditions, but there were also technological innovations that improved urban life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Second Industrial Revolution, which took place in the second half of the nineteenth century, brought significant changes to city life and living conditions. Industrialization and urbanization resulted in rapid growth and overcrowding in cities. The influx of people seeking employment in factories led to poor living conditions, including overcrowded and unsanitary housing. Pollution, infectious diseases, and poverty were also prevalent.
However, despite the challenges, technological innovations emerged during this time that improved urban life. For example, improvements in sanitation and medical advances reduced infant mortality rates and increased life expectancies. The mechanization of agriculture and the development of refrigerated railroad cars made food more accessible and affordable. These innovations and improvements in living conditions offered some benefits to city dwellers.