| Summary: | During the mid-19th century, the American economy grew rapidly as industrialization began to take a firm hold on the nation, and per capita net national product increased significantly. Yet despite this economic bustle and increased affluence, signs of adversity associated with the structural changes from a primarily agricultural, to an industrial economy can be detected. As this book demonstrates, the onset of modern economic growth impinged upon the health and biological well-being of the men and women experiencing that rapid structural transformation. Using detailed statistical analysis of Civil War enlistment records, this book examines the relationship between economic change and changes in the biological standard of living. It argues that industrialization had hidden costs - even in the United States with its abundant resources.
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