What was one major impact of the Industrial Revolution on American society?

The Industrial Revolution significantly transformed American society, leading to rapid urbanization and the growth of factories. This shift marked a pivotal moment as the economy transitioned from agrarian-based systems to industrial manufacturing. Cities expanded rapidly as people relocated in search of jobs in these newly established factories, which were concentrated in urban areas.

Factory work offered numerous employment opportunities, attracting domestic migration from rural regions and international immigration. This influx of workers fostered diverse communities and contributed to changing social dynamics. Additionally, the growth of factories not only spurred economic development but also led to new social issues, such as labor rights, poor working conditions, and the need for regulations, as large numbers of workers faced challenging environments.

The other options do not accurately represent major impacts of this era. For instance, rather than decreasing immigration rates, the Industrial Revolution typically resulted in higher immigration as people sought newfound opportunities. The welfare state emerged much later, not as a direct consequence of the Industrial Revolution. Meanwhile, the expansion of rural agriculture did not characterize this period, as industrialization primarily shifted focus from rural to urban economic activities.