Overview
This lecture introduces the Victorian era (1830–1900) in America, focusing on middle-class values and responses to dramatic societal changes such as industrialism, capitalism, transportation, and social mobility.
Introduction to the Victorian Era
- The Victorian era spans 1830 to 1900, named after Queen Victoria of Great Britain.
- In the U.S., "Victorians" refers to middle-class, white Americans, considered the stable core of society.
- Victorianism is seen as a response or coping mechanism for rapid, unexpected societal change.
Major Changes in the 19th Century
- The 19th century was marked by dramatic, unexpected change, unlike the 20th century where change was anticipated.
- These changes include industrialism, capitalism, transportation, social mobility, urbanization, immigration, and political shifts.
Industrialism
- The economy shifted from subsistence farming to factory-based manufacturing, starting with textile mills powered by water.
- Industrialism led to advances in banking, insurance, business strategy, and transportation networks.
Capitalism
- Capitalism is a competitive, individualistic economic system focused on maximizing self-interest.
- Unlike communal Puritan society, capitalism promotes competition and personal gain, raising concerns about its long-term social effects.
- Capitalism fueled industrial growth but also introduced anxieties about social cohesion.
Advances in Transportation
- Early transportation improvements included canal building for connecting waterways.
- Introduction of railroads in the 1830s revolutionized movement of goods and people and required new financial and business models.
- The U.S. built most railroads through private investment, influencing business organization in other industries.
Social Mobility
- Compared to static Puritan communities, Americans in the Victorian era increasingly moved for new opportunities.
- The U.S. expanded westward and saw significant north-south migration, urbanization, and a sense of rootlessness.
- Many Americans felt anxious about these changes, with both excitement and concern over new possibilities and instability.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Victorian Era — The period from 1830 to 1900 characterized by dramatic change and middle-class values.
- Industrialism — The rise of factory-based production replacing traditional, farm-centered economies.
- Capitalism — An economic system based on individual competition and self-interest.
- Social Mobility — The ability of individuals or groups to move within a social hierarchy, often involving geographic relocation.
- Victorianism — The set of beliefs and coping strategies developed by the Victorians to handle rapid change.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Begin reading Karen Haltunnen's Confidence Men and Painted Women.
- Review class notes on Puritans, Franklin, and earlier economic systems for comparison.
- Prepare for discussion on the remaining 19th-century changes in the next lecture.