Middle Class
A class of people in the middle of a social hierarchy
Real World Example
During the Reform Movements of 1815-1850, the middle class grew significantly due to the Industrial Revolution, gaining economic power and a desire for social reforms like better working conditions and education. This class was important because it pushed for changes that improved the quality of life and created more opportunities for many people. The middle class responded to problems like poor labor conditions and lack of access to education, advocating for laws to protect workers and expand schooling. Today, the middle class remains crucial as it often drives consumer spending and supports a stable economy, influencing policies that affect everyone's daily lives. For example, a middle-class family might advocate for better local schools, impacting the education quality for their children and the community.