Part 2/12:
The origins of this stigma can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution, a time when advancements in manufacturing, transportation, and technology transformed the U.S. from a primarily agricultural society into an industrial powerhouse. This shift laid the groundwork for an emerging working class. With the burgeoning economy, higher education began to adapt, focusing on practical fields to meet the increasing demand for specialized skills. However, access to college remained limited for most working-class families, who emphasized hard work and determination to succeed.