Final answer:
The late nineteenth-century technologies had varying impacts on working conditions and lifestyles in the United States. The telegraph improved communication within businesses, while the electric light bulb extended the workday and enhanced safety. The telephone revolutionized long-distance communication, and the railroad system facilitated economic growth while also leading to harsh working conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The late nineteenth century witnessed the advent of several new technologies that had a significant impact on working conditions and lifestyles in the United States. Here is the assessment of the impact of each technology:
- The telegraph: The telegraph revolutionized long-distance communication, allowing for rapid transmission of information. This technology improved communication within businesses, facilitated the growth of industries, and increased efficiency in trading. However, it did not have a direct impact on working conditions or lifestyles.
- The electric light bulb: Thomas Edison's invention of the electric light bulb transformed the way people worked and lived. It extended the workday as factories and other workplaces could operate longer hours, even during the night. This technology also enhanced safety and productivity in industries.
- The telephone: Alexander Graham Bell's telephone revolutionized communication by allowing individuals to communicate over long distances. The telephone improved efficiency in business transactions and enabled people to connect with others more easily, reducing the need for in-person meetings. It also introduced new job opportunities in the telecommunications industry.
- The railroad system: The expansion of the railroad system had a profound impact on both working conditions and lifestyles. It facilitated the transportation of goods and raw materials, boosting economic growth and industrialization. However, the construction and operation of railroads also led to harsh working conditions for laborers.