Lecture: The Industrial Revolution (Unit 2 Kickoff)

Overview

Structure: The lecture is divided into three parts:
1. Technological innovations leading to the Industrial Revolution.
2. Impacts on Europe and the world.
3. Impacts on society and labor.
Key Terms: Present only in the first part slide; ensure to note them down.

Background: The Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment introduced a new worldview in Europe, promoting research and experimentation.
Agricultural Advancements: New farming methods and crops increased efficiency and population, setting the stage for industrialization.
Historical Context: Late 1800s - early 1900s, marked by rapid industrialization and expanding colonialism.
Focus: Case study of England, considered the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

Unique Circumstances:
- Abundant coal deposits.
- High wages and a stable government.
- Developed financial system and a vast empire.
Government Policies:
- Aggressive tax policy and tariffs to protect domestic industry.

Agriculture:
- Move from old technologies to industrialized methods.
Key Technologies:
- Spinning Jenny (James Hargreaves, ~1765): Revolutionized textile production by enabling faster and more efficient thread production.
- Water Frame (Richard Arkwright): Powered by water, produced coarser threads, later refined by Samuel Crompton.
Industrial Growth:
- Transition from cottage industries to factory-based production.
- Rise of capitalism and its problems.

Coal: Increased demand due to industrialization, replacing wood as a primary energy source.
Steam Engine (James Watt, 1769): Major technological advancement, providing unlimited power to factories.

Introduction of Locomotives (1816): Cheaper, faster, and more reliable than horses.
Impact:
- Reduced shipping costs and expanded markets.
- Facilitated industry growth and urban working class expansion.
Railway Expansion: By 1914, extensive rail network across Britain.