What was the typical life expectancy of a working-class resident in an industrial city compared to a rural inhabitant in the early 19th century?
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Correct answer: It was significantly lower due to disease and poor nutrition
In some industrial districts of Manchester or Liverpool, life expectancy for laborers was as low as 17 years, while in rural areas it was nearly double that. This 'urban penalty' was caused by overcrowding, pollution, and infectious diseases.
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