Discussions on Class during 1800s America
The Industrial Revolution, the Emancipation of Slaves, and Increased Immigration from Europe all influenced the way Americans viewed class during the 1800s. Often, those in the lower class were seen as passive and lethargic (especially those who weren't Anglo-Saxon) by richer American citizens, and hence responsible for their own station. However, many rich citizens were sympathetic to the destitute, and donated their time and money to them.
On the other hand, the rich were simultaneously hated and loved by the poor and middle classes. Many viewed the upper class as fairly earning their station through hard work, and it gave them motivation to work harder so they could become rich as well. Oftentimes, those in the upper class thought this high opinion was more common than it actually was. On the contrary, others saw the upper class as stealing from the common man through unfair policies and businesses.
On the other hand, the rich were simultaneously hated and loved by the poor and middle classes. Many viewed the upper class as fairly earning their station through hard work, and it gave them motivation to work harder so they could become rich as well. Oftentimes, those in the upper class thought this high opinion was more common than it actually was. On the contrary, others saw the upper class as stealing from the common man through unfair policies and businesses.