Overview
This lecture explains the origins, features, and impacts of the Industrial Revolution, as well as its influence on the rise of imperialism and colonialism in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Pre-Industrial Society and Early Systems
- Medieval villages were self-sufficient, with all goods produced by local artisans in a domestic system.
- The putting out system involved merchants supplying raw materials to artisans, who made goods at home.
- Growth in overseas trade and the middle class increased demand for goods, making the domestic system inadequate.
The Industrial Revolution: Definition and Features
- The Industrial Revolution was a major economic and social transformation starting in 18th-century England due to technological innovations.
- Manual labor and small-scale production were replaced by machine-driven, large-scale factory production.
- Factories and resources were owned by capitalists, or those who owned capital.
Causes of the Industrial Revolution in England
- Economic growth and surplus capital from overseas trade enabled new industries and factories.
- Political stability and a preceding agricultural revolution increased output and supported change.
- Mechanization of agriculture created a pool of cheap labor as people moved to cities.
- Abundant coal and iron in northern England supported industrial growth.
- Notable inventions (e.g., Spinning Jenny, steam engine, power loom) revolutionized industries and transport.
- England's powerful navy and colonies supplied raw materials and markets.
Spread and Impact of Industrialization
- Industrialization spread to France, Germany, USA, Japan, and later Russia.
- The shift to factory work led to urbanization, with many people moving from rural areas to cities.
- Division of labor was introduced, with each worker performing specialized tasks.
Social and Economic Consequences
- Wealth concentrated among capitalists, leading to economic and social inequality.
- Workers faced harsh conditions, low wages, long hours, and little job security.
- Urbanization caused overcrowding and poor living conditions, often leading to disease and slums.
- Economic disparity fueled the rise of socialism and formation of trade unions.
- Expanded production led to increased global trade and colonial competition.
Political Impacts and Imperialism
- The capitalist class gained political influence in Britain.
- Workers organized trade unions demanding better conditions and rights, eventually leading to reforms.
- Industrial needs led to imperialism: European powers sought colonies for raw materials, markets, and investment.
- Colonial expansion resulted in rivalry and conflict between European nations.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Capitalism — Economic system where industries are privately owned for profit.
- Colonialism — Policy of one nation controlling another territory as a colony.
- Domestic system — Home-based handcraft production by families using simple tools.
- Factory system — Large-scale machine-based production in factories.
- Spinning Jenny — Spinning machine invented by James Hargreaves producing multiple threads at once.
- Socialism — Economic theory advocating collective ownership of production and wealth sharing.
- Trade union — Worker organization aiming to protect workers' interests and improve conditions.
- Urbanization — Growth of towns and cities.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Discuss: "Revolution has become history today. Discuss and substantiate with examples."
- Think and answer: "Industrial revolution was a mixed blessing. Do you agree? Give reasons."
- Review the listed inventions and key events/timeline.
- Reflect: If you owned a factory, how would you treat your workers?