The Market Revolution in America, Explained [APUSH Review]

Market Revolution

A shift from local production and barter systems to a national economy with mass production in the early-to-mid 19th century in the United States.

National Economy

An economy that integrates local markets into a larger framework, marked by mass production, improved transportation, and expanded markets.

Technological Advances

Improvements in technology, including canals, railroads, and the telegraph, that facilitated faster and cheaper movement of goods.

Division of Labor

A production process where tasks become specialized, leading to more efficient manufacturing.

Wage-Labor Workforce

A labor force that is compensated with wages, as opposed to relying on artisan or family-based production.

Integration of Regional Economies

The complementary roles of different regions, with the North manufacturing goods, the South producing raw materials, and the West supplying food and land.

Economic Expansion

A significant growth in commerce and industry as a result of the Market Revolution, leading to more entrepreneurial opportunities.

Urbanization

The increased movement of people to cities for work in factories as a consequence of industrialization.

Political Changes

Alterations in the relationship between government and the economy, including infrastructure development and regulatory policies, influenced by the market economy.

Regional Tensions

Distinct economic identities developing between North, South, and West, contributing to sectional conflict leading up to the Civil War.

Importance of the Market Revolution

Marks a major transformation from an agrarian to an industrial society, setting the stage for future developments in labor, immigration, and regional differences.