Entertainment in modern America is the key element associated with leisure, whether it's surfing the Internet or watching a movie; pastimes that transcend class and gender. Until the Victorian era of England, recreational activities were enjoyed only by the wealthy. After the advent of the Industrial Revolution, however, the middle class grew and relaxing activities became numerous as free time was no longer reserved only for the rich. New forms of entertainment were enjoyed by both workers and elites as well as men and women of the Victorian era to fill their free time; a lifestyle that has continued to the present day. In the years before the Industrial Revolution, there had been a large gap between the upper and working classes, and the poor had neither time nor money to enjoy themselves. The rise of factories and industry opened up new occupations and opportunities for workers to accumulate wealth and skills during the Victorian era. The new middle-class jobs included entrepreneurs and professionals such as engineers, lawyers, and doctors. More importantly, the growth of the middle class and suburbs led to the expansion of government with new administrators, officials, and legislators who worked to improve living conditions and urban lifestyles (Swisher 68). Between 1850 and 1875, the rise of the railways and social changes led to the growth of leisure for all classes. Industrial legislation and union activism shortened the working week, resulting in a Saturday semi-holiday for many workers. Meanwhile, wages steadily increased and new, efficient and economical means of intra-urban transportation allowed workers to leave their ghettos for places of recreation. Additionally, a movement of parks and playgrounds […] provided previously unavailable space for…… half of the document……ureau of Labor Statistics. U.S. Department of Labor, January 12, 2011. Web. November 20, 2011. .Clark, Stephen Hall. "The Development of Leisure in Britain after 1850". The Victorian Web. 1996. Network. November 16, 2011..Malheiro, B. “Victorian Fun and Games: The Growth of Leisure.” Logical Management Web Services. 1999. Network. November 20, 2011..Mitchell, Sally. "Free time and pleasure: holidays, sport and leisure". Daily life in Victorian England. Westport, CT: Greenwood, 1996. Print. 209-38.Swisher, Clarice. “The Rise of the Middle Class.” Victorian England. San Diego, CA: Lucent, 2001. Print. 66-78."Victorian Leisure." AVictorian.com. Network Solutions. 1996. Network. November 20. 2011. .