What revolution led to the rise of the working and middle classes in Britain?

The Industrial Revolution is the correct answer because it marked a significant transformation in Britain's economy, society, and class structure. This period, which began in the late 18th century, was characterized by the shift from agrarian economies to industrialized and urban ones.

As factories emerged and new technologies were developed, such as the steam engine and spinning jenny, the demand for labor increased, leading to the formation of a working class that filled jobs in these emerging industries. This shift provided unprecedented employment opportunities for many people who previously relied on agriculture for their livelihoods.

Simultaneously, the Industrial Revolution fostered the rise of a new middle class comprised of factory owners, merchants, and professionals, whose wealth and status grew as a result of industrialization. The economic power in Britain began to shift away from the traditional land-owning aristocracy to these industrial capitalists, altering the social dynamics of the time.

Additionally, the urbanization that accompanied industrialization led to the growth of cities, where working and middle classes lived and worked. This context laid the groundwork for social and political changes, including movements advocating for workers' rights and broader democratic participation, further solidifying the influence of these classes in British society.