Industrialization: The process of transforming an economy from primarily agricultural to one based on manufacturing goods using machinery. This played a significant role in shaping America's middle class by offering more job opportunities in urban areas.
Urbanization: The movement of people from rural areas to cities in search of better economic prospects. As cities grew due to industrialization, it provided more options for America's middle class lifestyle.
Consumerism: A cultural trend that emphasizes the acquisition and consumption of goods and services. The growth of America's middle class during the Progressive Era was closely tied to their ability to participate in consumer culture.