Final answer:
The devitalization of single industry towns was caused by the pursuit of profit by factory owners, deindustrialization due to capital flight, and social and cultural changes caused by urbanization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The devitalization of single industry towns had several causes. One major cause was the ruthless pursuit of profit by factory owners and manufacturers, who sought to simplify the manufacturing process and rely on cheap, unskilled labor. This led to harsh work conditions, degradation of craft skills, long hours, and low wages. Additionally, deindustrialization occurred as a consequence of capital flight, with companies moving their industrial processes to foreign nations with lower wages and fewer regulations. The collapse of these towns also resulted from social and cultural changes caused by urbanization, such as the breakdown of traditional values and the growth of depersonalization.