What had the most significant impact on the rise of mass entertainment in the late 19 century

History · High School · Wed Jan 13 2021

Answered on

The most significant impact on the rise of mass entertainment in the late 19th century was the industrial revolution and technological advancements. The increased availability of leisure time and changes in society due to industrialization and urbanization played a crucial role in the development of mass entertainment.


1. **Industrialization:** The shift from agrarian economies to industrial ones led to changes in work patterns and increased urbanization. Factory workers, with more defined working hours, had more leisure time available, creating a demand for entertainment.


2. **Technological Advances:** Technological innovations such as the printing press, telegraph, and later, the phonograph and motion pictures, allowed for the mass production and distribution of entertainment. Newspapers, magazines, novels, and eventually music and films became accessible to a broader audience.


3. **Urbanization:** The growth of cities and the concentration of people in urban centers created a larger potential audience for entertainment. Urban areas became hubs for theaters, music halls, and other venues that catered to a diverse population seeking amusement.


4. **Advertising and Marketing:** The rise of advertising and marketing strategies helped promote and popularize various forms of entertainment. Newspapers and posters were used to publicize events, plays, concerts, and other forms of entertainment.


5. **Transportation:** Improved transportation infrastructure, including railroads, made it easier for people to travel to entertainment venues. This facilitated the touring of performers and the distribution of printed materials.


6. **Social Changes:** Changing social attitudes, particularly the emergence of a middle class with disposable income, contributed to the demand for entertainment. People sought activities that provided leisure and enjoyment.


Overall, the combination of industrialization, technological advancements, and shifts in society created a fertile ground for the rise of mass entertainment in the late 19th century.