The Industrial Revolution

Flashcards about The Industrial Revolution

What is the Industrial Revolution?

The time period between approximately 1750 and 1914 characterized by a long, slow process that resulted in revolutionary changes politically, economically, socially and technologically.

What characterized the shift in production during the Industrial Revolution?

Production shifted from hand tools to machinery, and new sources of power such as steam and electricity replaced human and animal power.

Which nations took the lead in the two distinct stages of the Industrial Revolution?

Great Britain (1750-1850) and Western Europe and the United States (mid-1800s to about 1914).

How did the Agricultural Revolution contribute to the Industrial Revolution in Great Britain?

Changes in farming greatly increased the amount and variety of food produced.

Name two new crops introduced during the 1700s.

Potatoes and corn.

What agricultural technique was suggested by Charles Townshend in the 1730s?

Crop rotation (planting different crops every few years).

How did the Enclosure Movement impact agriculture?

Allowed wealthy landowners to claim common land for themselves, which made agriculture more efficient.

What were the effects of the Agricultural Revolution on population and diet?

More food was available, people's diet and health improved, leading to a rapid growth in population.

What natural resources and transportation advantages did Britain possess?

Britain had plentiful iron and coal resources, and it developed an excellent transportation system.

How did international trade contribute to Britain's industrial lead?

British merchants had made huge profits from the international trade in tobacco, sugar, tea, and slaves.

List three positive results of the Industrial Revolution.

Advancements in science and medicine, a flood of new consumer products, and a more varied diet.

List three negative results of the Industrial Revolution.

Poor living conditions for workers, an increase in crime, and environmental destruction.

What advancements were made in communication?

Improved communications, created an inexpensive postal system and the invention of the telegraph.

What did the installation of the first underwater telegraph cable under the English Channel make possible?

Rapid communication between Britain and the continent.