Industrialization Practice Test

Industrial growth created new centers of wealth and power that reshaped society. The bourgeoisie—factory owners, merchants, bankers, and professionals—prospered from factories, trade, and investment, accumulating capital that boosted their status and political influence. This enabled them to invest in education, enterprises, and civic institutions, expanding the middle tier and elevating its role in politics and public life. In short, the Industrial Revolution expanded and strengthened the middle class, rather than eliminating it, reducing its influence, or leaving social structure unchanged.