The term "bourgeoisie" refers to the social class that emerged in the late Middle Ages and became prominent during the Industrial Revolution. This class is typically associated with owning the means of production, such as factories and businesses, and is often contrasted with the working class, or proletariat, who sell their labor. In a broader sense, the bourgeoisie is linked to capitalist societies, where wealth and power are concentrated among those who control resources. This class plays a significant role in shaping economic and political systems, influencing culture, and driving social change throughout history.