What was the ‘Second Industrial Revolution’ characterized by?

The Second Industrial Revolution, which took place roughly between 1870 and 1914, is most accurately characterized by a period of rapid industrial growth. This era saw significant advancements in technology and production methods, particularly in industries such as steel, electricity, and chemicals. Innovations like the assembly line, electric power, and developments in communication, such as telegraphy and telephony, contributed to a dramatic increase in manufacturing and economic activity. These changes not only transformed industries but also had profound effects on society, leading to urbanization as people moved to cities for factory jobs, and fostering a consumer culture driven by mass production.

The other options reflect trends either inconsistent with the period or in a different context. For instance, while agricultural activity did experience changes during this time, it didn’t necessarily decline uniformly or uniformly in a noticeable way compared to industrial sectors. Traditional crafts were largely overshadowed by mass production techniques, and while manual labor remained important, the focus during the Second Industrial Revolution was increasingly on mechanization and automated processes rather than solely on manual work.