14. One of the trends that began during this age and still continues today is consumerism, or the purchase of non-essential consumer goods. In the late 1800s and early 1900’s some examples of consumerism would be
the rise of department stores, the mass production of goods, and the emergence of advertising. People started to buy more and more products that were not necessary for survival, such as fashionable clothing, household appliances, and luxury items. This trend was fueled by the growth of capitalism and the increasing wealth and disposable income of the middle class. Today, consumerism has only grown stronger, with the advent of online shopping, fast fashion, and the constant bombardment of advertisements through various media platforms.
1. The rise of department stores: During this time period, department stores became popular as they provided customers with a wide range of goods under one roof. Some well-known examples include Macy's in the United States and Selfridges in the United Kingdom.
2. Catalog shopping: The introduction of mail-order catalogs allowed people to shop from the comfort of their own homes. Companies like Sears, Roebuck and Co. in the US and Montgomery Ward offered extensive catalogs with a wide array of products for customers to choose from.
3. The promotion of luxury goods: As industrialization led to increased wealth and economic growth, companies started promoting luxury items such as automobiles, fine jewelry, and high-end fashion. This targetted consumers who could afford to spend on non-essential goods.
4. Advertising and marketing: Companies began to invest heavily in advertising and marketing techniques to create a desire for their products. Print advertisements, billboards, and other promotional materials were used to persuade consumers to buy goods they may not necessarily need.
5. Mass production and the expansion of consumer goods: The industrial revolution brought about mass production, making consumer goods more affordable and widely available. This led to an increase in the variety and quantity of products available for purchase, encouraging consumerism.
6. Easy access to credit: During this period, the concept of buying on credit became more prevalent. The availability of installment plans and easy credit allowed consumers to purchase items they couldn't afford outright, further fueling consumerism.
7. The emergence of brand loyalty: Companies started building brand identity and fostering brand loyalty among consumers. This was achieved through brand differentiation, consistent messaging, and the creation of emotional connections between consumers and specific brands.
Overall, these factors contributed to the growth of consumerism during the late 1800s and early 1900s, setting the stage for the continued importance of consumer culture in the present day.
Some examples of consumerism during the late 1800s and early 1900s include:
1. Department Stores: The rise of department stores during this time provided consumers with a wide array of goods under one roof. These stores capitalized on the desire for new and trendy products, encouraging consumers to purchase more and fueling the culture of consumerism.
2. Advertising: The emergence of modern advertising techniques played a significant role in promoting consumerism. Advertisements in newspapers, magazines, and later on, posters and billboards, encouraged consumers to buy products by appealing to their desires and creating a sense of necessity.
3. Catalogs: The catalog industry grew rapidly during this period, with companies like Sears, Roebuck and Co. offering consumers the convenience of shopping from home. These catalogs showcased a wide range of products, tempting consumers to make purchases beyond their basic needs.
4. Fashion and Accessories: The fashion industry experienced a surge in consumer demand for new clothing styles and accessories. As fashion trends evolved, consumers felt the need to stay up to date, leading to increased purchases of clothing, shoes, hats, and other accessories.
5. Leisure and Entertainment: Consumerism extended beyond necessities into the realm of leisure activities. The popularity of hobbies, sports, and entertainment led to increased sales of items like bicycles, cameras, musical instruments, and books.
To understand more about consumerism during this era, you can explore historical records, books, articles, and primary sources from that time. These sources will provide valuable insights into the specific products, advertisements, and marketing strategies that drove consumerism during the late 1800s and early 1900s.