How did the Industrial Revolution lead to shifts in class structure?

The Industrial Revolution significantly transformed the class structure by giving rise to the industrial bourgeoisie—an emerging middle class comprised of factory owners, business entrepreneurs, and capitalists who played a crucial role in the economy. This shift occurred as manufacturing moved from artisanal and small-scale production to large-scale industrial production, creating a demand for labor and new business practices.

At the same time, a more defined working class emerged, comprised of factory workers who became increasingly distinct from the bourgeoisie. These workers often faced harsh working conditions, long hours, and low pay, which further solidified their identity as a separate social class. The tensions between the bourgeoisie and the working class eventually paved the way for labor movements and discussions about workers' rights, influencing social and political developments in the years to come.

In contrast, the other options present scenarios that do not accurately reflect the historical context. The notion that social classes were eliminated is inaccurate, as the Industrial Revolution created more defined class divisions. The idea that it strengthened the aristocracy is misleading, as the aristocracy's influence waned with the rise of industrial capitalism. Lastly, asserting that the revolution only affected rural working classes overlooks the fact that urban industrial workers were also significantly impacted by these changes. Thus, the