Final answer:
The technology introduced during the Industrial Revolution, such as steam power, led to mass production of goods, making metal and leather items more widely available and affordable, thus democratizing comfort and convenience for broader societal segments.
Step-by-step explanation:
The introduction of new technologies during the Industrial Revolution, particularly steam power, significantly changed the production of goods, impacting the availability of metal and leather products. Automation in manufacturing, advances in metallurgy, and improved production techniques made goods that were once considered luxury items now accessible to a broader audience, marking a shift towards mass production and consumerism.
Larger-scale production led to the increased availability of items such as paper, glass, textiles, and clocks at prices that were affordable to the working and middle classes. This technological shift also meant improvements in agriculture with the use of mechanical seeders and threshing machines, ultimately leading to enhanced agricultural productivity.
In the realm of domestic life, innovations translated to more widespread access to items that improved daily living conditions. The mass production of clothing, shoes, cookware, and furniture allowed even average families to enjoy a semblance of middle-class lifestyle. Increased production of soap and the availability of gas lights also meant better personal health and the emergence of vibrant city life after dark.
Overall, the technological advancements of the Industrial Revolution bridged the gap between the upper classes and the working population with respect to the ownership and enjoyment of various goods, thereby democratizing comfort and convenience.