The early part of the Industrial Revolution saw the rise of a new social class in England: the middle class. This class was made up of people who owned and operated factories, as well as professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and engineers. The middle class was also often involved in politics and social reform.
The rise of the middle class had a number of important social implications. First, it created a new social hierarchy in England. The middle class was placed above the working class, but below the aristocracy. Second, the middle class brought about a number of changes in the way that people lived. They were more likely to live in cities, own property, and have access to education and other forms of culture. Third, the middle class was a driving force behind many of the social and political reforms that took place in England during the 19th century.