Between 1860 and 1900, more than fourteen million immigrants came to the country. Source: Public Domain / U.S. Census Bureau How did this population change affect the Second Industrial Revolution? a It decreased the level of corporate profits. b It reduced the demand for new technology. c It established a market for consumer goods in rural areas. d It provided a source of cheap labor in urban areas.

## Step 1<br />The problem is asking us to analyze the impact of the influx of immigrants to the United States between 1860 and 1900 on the Second Industrial Revolution. The Second Industrial Revolution, which took place from the late 19th to early 20th century, was characterized by rapid industrial growth and technological advancements.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />The options provided suggest different ways this population change could have affected the Second Industrial Revolution. We need to evaluate each option based on historical facts and the context of the Second Industrial Revolution.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Option a suggests that the influx of immigrants decreased the level of corporate profits. However, immigrants were often employed in factories and industries, which were the backbone of the Second Industrial Revolution. Therefore, it is unlikely that their arrival would decrease corporate profits.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />Option b suggests that the influx of immigrants reduced the demand for new technology. This is also unlikely, as immigrants would have been in need of new technologies to improve their living conditions and to find work.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />Option c suggests that the influx of immigrants established a market for consumer goods in rural areas. While immigrants did contribute to the growth of consumer goods, this was not the primary impact of their influx on the Second Industrial Revolution.<br /><br />## Step 6<br />Option d suggests that the influx of immigrants provided a source of cheap labor in urban areas. This is historically accurate, as many immigrants were employed in factories and industries in urban areas, providing a source of cheap labor.