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By the Middle Ages, the practice became more entrenched in European culture, influenced by religious customs that involved midnight prayers conducted by monks. This reverence for the watch solidified its status as a cherished aspect of night life.
The Impact of the Industrial Revolution
However, a cultural shift against biphasic sleep gained momentum during the Industrial Revolution. The introduction of artificial lighting altered people's relationship with time. Gas lamps and eventually electric lighting enabled social activities to extend late into the night. Consequently, sleep transitioned into a more utilitarian endeavor, solely meant to recharge the body for the productivity demands of the following day.