The factors that led to rapid industrialization in the United States between the years 1860 through 1900 are remarkable. They represent a population that strived vigorously for financial success and security. The incredible influx of European immigrants to the New World provided the backbone for a crawling toddler of a nation to erect itself from the crippling effects of the Civil War. This essential resource of humans with aspirations for a better life became the greatest source of capital for a country with capitalistic aspirations.
As an economy investing for means of profit, a constant and plentiful supply of labor created an increase in productivity for many of its industries. The railroad industry, for example, created thousands of jobs thanks to western expansion and technological advances. The mass production of steel rose when the Bessemer process was introduced to every steel mill. This new method produced better quality steel for safer buildings, bri
The 19th century ended on a positive note. Social standards, although not completely perfect, united society, hence the idea of America as a giant melting pot. Within 40 years the country became a dominant nation inspired by democracy and success for all. There isn’t a better sign of evidence then the mass exodus of people that arrived and still arrive from all over the planet wanting a piece of the American Dream.
Farther and wider did not necessarily mean better. A growing country relies on internal and external investments. The U.S. government ensured investment by protecting innovative companies regardless if their product was faulty or not. This “buyers beware” mentality was named Limited Liability (caveat emptor). Such advantages, in one way or another, created monopolies due to an ever expanding competitive market within each important sector. Exclusive control of commodity seemed to control the American worker as well.