The Second Industrial Revolution - Impact on American Genealogy

The Second Industrial Revolution, which occurred between the late 19th century and early 20th century, was a period of rapid industrialization, technological advancements, and economic growth in the United States. This era saw the rise of factories, mass production, and the expansion of transportation and communication networks. These developments had a significant impact on American society, including the field of genealogy.

One of the major effects of the Second Industrial Revolution on genealogy was the increased mobility of people. As transportation networks expanded, individuals and families were able to move more easily across the country. This led to the establishment of new communities and the growth of existing ones. As a result, genealogical research became more complex, as researchers had to track their ancestors across various locations.

Another impact of the Second Industrial Revolution on genealogy was the availability of new record-keeping technologies. With the advent of the typewriter and the telephone, for example, it became easier for individuals to document their personal information and communicate with others. This resulted in the creation of new types of genealogical records, such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and census data.

Furthermore, the Second Industrial Revolution also led to the development of new industries and occupations, which are important sources of information for genealogists. For example, the growth of the railroad industry created numerous job opportunities for individuals, such as train conductors, engineers, and station agents. Similarly, the rise of the automobile industry resulted in the creation of new types of jobs, such as auto mechanics and salespeople.

The Second Industrial Revolution had a significant impact on American society and, by extension, on genealogy. It created new challenges and opportunities for researchers, as well as new sources of information for tracking one's ancestors. By understanding the historical context of this era, genealogists can gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by their ancestors and the ways in which they adapted to the changing world around them.