Overview

The Industrial Revolution fundamentally transformed economies, societies, and cultures from the late 18th century onward. Originating in Britain, it marked the shift from agrarian production to mechanized industry and shaped the modern capitalist world through innovation, urbanization, and class change.

Key Themes and Developments

• Causes and Preconditions:
  • Access to coal and iron, agricultural surplus, capital for investment, and political stability in Britain.
  • Scientific advances and Enlightenment thinking promoted practical innovation.
• Technological and Economic Change:
  • Textile industry innovations: spinning jenny, water frame, power loom.
  • Steam power and the factory system revolutionized productivity.
  • Railroads and canals enhanced transportation and regional integration.
• Social Effects:
  • Growth of cities (urbanization), factory labor, and new social classes (bourgeoisie and working class).
  • Child labor, poor working conditions, and social dislocation sparked reform movements.
  • Rise of labor unions and early socialism.
• Global Spread and Impact:
  • Industrialization spread to Europe and North America by mid-19th century.
  • Accelerated imperialism to secure raw materials and markets abroad.
  • Transformed global trade and finance.
• British Reform Movement:
  • Laws to limit hours, improve conditions, and expand education (e.g., Factory Acts).
  • Reform Bill of 1832 expanded suffrage and reduced aristocratic power.

Quick Tip

Think of the Industrial Revolution as the engine of modern society. Master the causes, key inventions, and the profound effects on labor, class, and global power. It redefined productivity and reshaped the world.