Question #N240

The following text is excerpted from a book about the effects of the Industrial Revolution on the United States. The Industrial Revolution led to the widespread adoption of factory production, which, in turn, encouraged the development of a new economic system known as capitalism. Capitalism is based on the principles of free enterprise, private ownership, and competition. These principles were largely absent from the preindustrial economies of Europe, where most production took place in the home or in small workshops. Because of this, capitalism's emergence in the United States led to a fundamental shift in the nation's economy and its social structure.

What is the primary focus of this passage?
A. The shift from preindustrial economies to industrial economies.
B. The rise of capitalism in the United States.
C. The principles of capitalism.
D. The effects of factory production on the United States.

Correct Answer is: B

The passage is primarily focused on the rise of capitalism in the United States. The passage describes the principles of capitalism and how those principles were absent in preindustrial economies, but the primary focus is on the emergence of capitalism in the United States and the effects of that emergence on the nation’s economy and social structure.