HIST 105 : Study Guide Ch. 12.doc
Document Summary
During the first half of the nineteenth century, the united states underwent a revolution with regard to the transportation and manufacture of goods. These changes were gradual and were most pronounced in the north, centered along major water and railway routes. Innovations like mccormick"s reaper and the american system of manufactures greatly increased the productive capacity of farmers and workers and forever changed longstanding approaches to agriculture and artisanry. The expansion of commercial farming and wage labor in the north opened new avenues for individuals to earn great wealth, but simultaneously increased a person"s vulnerability to difficult economic times and poor decision making. While many did not eagerly embrace these changes, the efficiency and profitability of the new modes of production encouraged entrepreneurs to press ever forward. The emerging individualism of the marketplace was reinforced by the development of free labor ideology and the revitalization of evangelical christianity, which became central pillars of the new middle class family.
