Question

All of the following were effects of the industrial revolution EXCEPT

A decreased reliance on skilled labor

Increased use of fossil fuels

An increase in agricultural productivity

Increased urbanization and growth of cities

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

**A decreased reliance on skilled labor**

While the Industrial Revolution did lead to changes in the types of labor required (e.g., many positions became more focused on machine operation rather than skilled crafts), it also created a demand for skilled workers in certain areas, such as engineering and machine maintenance. However, it is widely recognized that many traditional skilled labor positions were replaced by unskilled labor in factories. Nonetheless, the phrasing of the option might imply a blanket decrease in reliance on skilled labor, which isn't entirely accurate as skilled labor remained important in various contexts.

The other options listed—**increased use of fossil fuels**, **an increase in agricultural productivity**, and **increased urbanization and growth of cities**—are widely accepted effects of the Industrial Revolution.