PTE SUMMARIZE WRITTEN TEXT EXERCISE 2
The Industrial Revolution and Urban Life
The Industrial Revolution brought dramatic changes to urban life in Europe during the 18th and 19th centuries. As factories multiplied and jobs moved from rural to urban areas, cities experienced rapid population growth, often faster than infrastructure could accommodate. The overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions in these urban centers led to the spread of disease, increased crime rates, and worsening labor exploitation, especially among children. At the same time, the revolution gave rise to a new urban middle class that benefited from increased economic activity and technological innovation. The contrast between the working poor and the wealthy elite led to major social tensions, which eventually prompted reform movements and labor unions advocating for better wages, housing, and working conditions. Over time, many cities introduced public health systems, sanitation infrastructure, and urban planning regulations to improve quality of life. The legacy of the Industrial Revolution continues to shape debates about labor, urbanization, and economic inequality today.