Pre-Civil War: Effect of factory work on Social Life

The fast evolution of industry was causing an influx of people to cities. Men, women, and children left their rural lifestyles in pursuit of new opportunities as factory workers. Cities were not prepared for the high- levels of immigrants, which had deletarious effects on living conditions. Living areas, were overcrowded, causing poor sanitation,the spread of disease, cramped quarters, and high risk of  fires. As more factories were built, more people traveled to cities to be a part of this industrial marvel.
-Leah Defigueiredo
http://lincoln.georgetowncollege.edu/eighth/Northern%20Factory%20Workers%20Placard%202.pdf