The industrial revolution was taking place and there was a sudden growth of the cities as the economy shifted from agriculture to industry and trade people moved from the countryside to the cities and many lived in squalor as the housing was appalling.

The Industrial Revolution, which took place from the 18th to 19th centuries, was a period during which predominantly agrarian, rural societies in Europe and America became industrial and urban. This shift led to a sudden and rapid growth of cities.

Here are the steps that led to this situation:

1. Shift from Agriculture to Industry: The Industrial Revolution marked a major turning point in history as the world transitioned from manual labor and draft-animal-based economies towards machine-based manufacturing. This shift led to a decrease in agricultural jobs, causing many people to seek work in the newly emerging industries.

2. Urbanization: As industries grew, so did the cities around them. People moved from rural areas to these cities in search of better job opportunities. This mass migration of people is known as urbanization.

3. Living Conditions: The rapid and unplanned growth of cities led to poor living conditions. Many people lived in overcrowded slums with little to no sanitation. Housing was often hastily built and of poor quality, leading to appalling living conditions.

4. Economic Growth: Despite the poor living conditions, the Industrial Revolution led to significant economic growth. The shift from agriculture to industry and trade allowed for the creation of wealth in ways that were not possible before. This period saw a significant increase in the overall standard of living, despite the disparity in wealth distribution.

In conclusion, the Industrial Revolution was a complex period that brought about significant social, economic, and cultural changes. The growth of cities and the shift from agriculture to industry were key aspects of this period.