Which of the following was a key feature of industrial cities during the revolution?

• A. High-quality housing
• B. Parks and recreational areas
• C. Pollution and overcrowding
• D. Clean water supply

Answer: (C)

The key feature of industrial cities during the Industrial Revolution was pollution and overcrowding. As factories proliferated in urban areas, they attracted a workforce seeking jobs, leading to rapid population growth in these cities. This influx resulted in densely populated neighborhoods, often characterized by inadequate housing and sanitation facilities. The lack of urban planning combined with the haste to generate industrial output resulted in significant environmental degradation. Factories emitted smoke and waste, contributing to air and water pollution, while poor living conditions arose from the inability to accommodate the swift population increases. These elements of pollution and overcrowding starkly illustrate the challenges that accompanied industrialization, establishing a distinct and often grim experience for urban residents during this period.