Final answer:
Post-Civil War America saw a massive surge in economic growth and industrialization, attracting millions of immigrants to urban factory jobs with the dream of earning and returning home. Technological advancements and the explosion of industries laid the foundation for the United States to become an economic powerhouse, while immigrants faced tough conditions and the struggle of whether to assimilate into American society.
Step-by-step explanation:
After the Civil War, America experienced unprecedented economic growth, with its industrial output increasing by 70 percent between the Civil War and 1873. This boom was partly driven by technological advancements, such as the transcontinental railroad, which provided new means of transportation for people and goods, including vital resources like steel. The railroad also facilitated the migration to the western states, rich in mineral resources. The advent of the telephone and the light bulb further symbolized the era's transformative innovations.
The economic expansion and industrialization drew approximately fourteen million immigrants to the United States by the end of the century. These immigrants played a crucial role in America's workforce, often taking jobs in factories with harsh conditions like long hours and low pay. This influx of labor helped transition the country from rural to urban-centric, though the experiences of immigrants were marked by challenges. Notably, their urban life was often viewed as temporary, as many aimed to return home after earning enough money. Labor unions began to emerge in response to the difficult factory conditions, advocating for workers' rights.
While industries thrived, leading to the United States becoming the world's largest economy, this period was also marked by challenges, such as the displacement of Native Americans and the assimilation struggles faced by immigrants. These immigrants rarely learned English or assimilated, as they did not originally plan to make the United States their permanent home. The industrial revolution, therefore, had complex implications on American society and the global perception of the American Dream.