Industrialization and Household and Family Life Course Characteristics: Appalachian Kentucky Young Adults in 1880 and 1910

Abstract

Using a life course approach, this analysis examines the effects of industrializa tion on household and family characteristics for the predominately rural population of Appala chian Kentucky in 1880 and 1910. The household and family characteristics of males and females aged 15-19, 20-24 and 25-29 are described, and variation in these characteristics is examined in terms of six contextual variables. While samples from the 1880 and 1910 general populations do not differ, the samples from the 1910 general population and the 1910 coal mine population do differ. Individuals from the industrial 1910 coal mine sample achieve adult household and family statuses at significantly earlier ages. This analysis demonstrates the effects industrialization—separate from urbanization—can have on households and families.