The statistics from this time period are based on tax records
with a structure that consisted of several different levels and
it was possible for an individual to be taxed in one or more
during the same year. Based on these statistics, the middle
class is defined as those earning over £150 annually. These
individuals would most likely own their own home and be able to
employ some domestic help. The census taken in 1871 shows
occupations1 in England broken down as a percent of the total
population: Unfortunately, the manner in which the numbers were
compiled, it is impossible to determine how many people earned
what, the levels of the hierarchy and which classes or groups in
the community were doing best out of the mid-Victorian boom in
gross national income. What could be seen however, is that the
rich were getting richer and the poor, poorer. Middle Class
Occupations So how did the middle class earn a living? Most
worked at producing/distributing manufactured goods and raw
materials which need arose as a res