The Victorian Age (1837-1901) was characterized by tremendous industrial and technological growth, a rapidly expanding population, and an unprecedented concentration of wealth among the upper classes. The rapid expansion of industry created much greater economic divisions between the wealthy and poor than ever before. This had far-reaching implications for social structure and politics in both Britain, which saw its colonial empire expand exponentially through imperialism during this period, as well as America, where an influx of immigrants from Europe contributed to a growing urban working class. In order to understand whether this exuberance and disparity was justified in America’s quest to become a great nation during the Victorian Age, it is important to consider how American society responded to the changing economic landscape and how those in power used their newfound wealth.
During the Victorian Age, the upper class became very wealthy in part by exploiting the lower classes. For America to become a great and wealthy nation, was the exuberance and disparity of the Victorian age justified?
During the Victorian Age most people’s lives were heavily influenced by their socio-economic status. Those who owned or controlled businesses such as factories became increasingly affluent while those that worked in these areas often lived in abject poverty with long hours and dangerous working conditions providing little financial security or opportunity for advancement. Upper-class Victorians were able to amass vast amounts of wealth due to their ownership or control over industries while simultaneously exploiting available labor sources. These new fortunes enabled them to purchase large amounts of land which gave them exclusive access not only to natural resources but also political power through voting rights that allowed them further influence legislation favorable for business interests.
On one hand some may argue that this exuberance was essential for America’s success given that it enabled entrepreneurs who invested their capital into developing new technologies which greatly increased productivity throughout various industrial sectors leading directly toward strong economic growth vital for any emerging nation aspiring greatness regardless of disparities present within society at the time. On another hand many would contend that although some progress did occur during this era with advances made regarding infrastructure while allowing progress toward creating an international economy unequal distribution within society triggered deep resentment from lower classes leading toward political unrest manifested through numerous labor strikes against unfair wages/working conditions among other issues caused by growing inequality among citizens making it clear unjustified exploitation occurred on behalf of those controlling industry thus preventing progression towards true greatness nevermind equity amongst citizens associated with any prosperous nation past present or future .
In conclusion, even though there were advances made during this era contributing towards industrial growth enabling America’s development into a great nation; considerable disparities existed between upper & lower classes largely attributed towards exploitation driven by greed resulting from newly acquired fortunes held predominantly amongst few occurring at expense others unable benefit same extent prompting wide scale discontentment ultimately hindering true greatness nevermind equitable environment conducive stability healthy functioning society necessary realize aspirations prosperity fairness commonly associated greatness across all nations worldwide