Final answer:
The creation of social classes, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, was deeply influenced by the type of employment and the associated wealth. The rising middle class and industrialists defined themselves by their work ethics and financial success, whereas the traditional aristocracy and the working class experienced shifts in their societal roles and status. Social classes became more nuanced and complex with industrialization.
Step-by-step explanation:
How did jobs as far as social classes go? Throughout history, jobs have been a defining factor of social class structure. In the context of pre-industrial Europe, social status was mainly hereditary and based on the feudal system, with land ownership at its core. Post-Industrial Revolution, however, saw a shift where new wealth and social mobility were tied to industrial jobs, leading to a more complex social stratification.
During the Industrial Revolution, the creation of social classes was stark. Individuals found their place in society not only through heredity but also through their occupation and wealth. The industrialists and middle classes distinguished themselves from the working class and the old nobility through values such as morality, sobriety, work, and cleanliness. In contrast, the working class was often viewed negatively, and their living conditions and low wages reflected their lower social standing.
The aristocracy's status declined as their wealth, traditionally derived from land, became less significant compared to industrial wealth. The middle class valued work and education, striving to maintain or advance their social status, while wage workers, including women and children, formed their own society but were often subject to low pay and periodic unemployment. Subsequently, there were no safety nets like unemployment insurance, which made their societal position even more precarious.