Answer:
The United States becoming an industrial power during the late 19th and early 20th centuries was a significant development in world history. However, this shift to industrialization also had some major downsides. Two of the most significant downsides of the U.S. becoming an industrial power are the exploitation of workers and environmental degradation.
One of the major downsides of industrialization was the exploitation of workers. The rise of industrial factories brought with it harsh working conditions, including long hours, low wages, and dangerous work environments. Workers had little bargaining power and were often subject to unfair labor practices, such as child labor and wage theft. This exploitation of workers led to the rise of labor unions and the labor movement, as workers sought to improve their working conditions and wages.
Another major downside of industrialization was environmental degradation. The industrial revolution led to the widespread use of fossil fuels and the release of pollutants into the air and water. The mining and manufacturing industries produced significant amounts of waste and pollution, which led to environmental problems such as air and water pollution, soil degradation, and deforestation. This environmental degradation had long-term consequences for human health and the natural world, including the loss of biodiversity and the rise of climate change.
Overall, while the rise of industrialization brought many benefits to the United States, including increased productivity and economic growth, it also had significant downsides. The exploitation of workers and environmental degradation were two of the major downsides of the U.S. becoming an industrial power. These downsides underscore the importance of creating a more sustainable and equitable industrial system that prioritizes worker safety and environmental protection.
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