The Growth of the Middle Class (College Board AP® US History)
Study Guide
Summary
As industries and factories grew, so did the need for administrative and managerial support employees. These employees gained better wages and working conditions. This created a growing middle class. These workers had an increased disposable income and more leisure time, leading to increased entertainment opportunities.
White-Collar Workers & the Growth of Leisure Time
White-Collar Workers
White-collar workers are office or administrative employees who do not engage in physical labor or the manufacturing process
They are typically known for wearing formal clothing, especially white shirts, as a symbol of their professional status
The employment structure had three tiers:
Executives
This group included business owners and investors
Managerial and white-collar workers:
These workers managed daily operations and included roles like managers, clerks, legal staff, and salespersons
Women were included as bookkeepers, secretaries, and typists
Laborers
This group included factory workers and day laborers involved in physical production work
Growth of Leisure Time
As wages for middle-class workers improved, they had more disposable income
This allowed people to buy consumer goods and enjoy leisure activities
Middle-class workers also benefited from shorter work days, which left them more time for entertainment and amusement
Key examples of growing leisure opportunities included:
Coney Island: a major amusement park in New York City that became a popular destination, especially for the middle-class
the circus: P.T. Barnum’s travelling circus used railroads to transport his shows from city to city, appealing to both the lower and middle classes
sports: the rise of professional spectator sports, including baseball and football, created a new form of entertainment
theatre and variety shows: popular performances that included comedy, magic, song, and dance acts, which catered to the middle classes
cultural institutions: libraries, museums, and art exhibits offered free or low-cost entertainment for the middle classes
Worked Example
How did the rise of white-collar workers and increased leisure time contribute to the development of the middle class in the late 19th century?
Answer:
As industrialization expanded, the need for administrative roles grew, leading to the rise of white-collar workers in managerial positions. These workers enjoyed better wages and working conditions, allowing for greater disposable income. With more leisure time, they could participate in activities such as visiting Coney Island, watching sports, or attending theatre performances. This shift in lifestyle helped shape a distinct middle class, characterized by improved social and economic status.
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