What primarily explains the nineteenth-century reform movements in northern states such as the temperance movement?

The temperance movement, along with other reform movements in the nineteenth century, was significantly influenced by immigration and urbanization. As cities grew rapidly due to industrialization and an influx of immigrants, social problems became more pronounced. Issues such as poverty, crime, and public health crises emerged in urban environments, which many reformers attributed to the consumption of alcohol.

This situation led to a heightened awareness of social issues and sparked a desire for change, resulting in organized campaigns aimed at promoting temperance and addressing the societal impacts of alcohol consumption. The movement attracted a diverse group of supporters, including women and religious leaders, who saw the need for societal reform amidst the challenges presented by urban life and a changing demographic landscape.

The link to urbanization is particularly crucial; as people moved to cities, the social fabric transformed, leading to new challenges that reformers sought to address. This context highlights why immigration and urbanization are key factors in understanding the temperance movement and other related reform efforts during that period.