The Industrial Revolution and Its Impact on European Society

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the Industrial Revolution's impact on society, economies, and labor conditions.

Industrial Revolution

A period of major industrialization that transformed economies from agrarian to manufacturing between the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Proletariat

The working class or industrial wage earners who do not own the means of production.

Bourgeoisie

The middle class, typically referencing those who own capital and are involved in commerce and industry.

Urbanization

The process of making an area more urban, marked by an increase in population and the growth of cities.

Manufacturing

The process of converting raw materials into finished goods using machinery, tools, and labor.

Cottage Industry

A system of production where goods are made in homes or small workshops rather than in factories.

Capitalism

An economic system characterized by private ownership of production and operation for profit.

Steam Engine

An engine that uses steam to produce mechanical work; crucial in powering factories during the Industrial Revolution.

Factory System

A method of manufacturing using machinery and division of labor; typically located in designated facilities.

Labor Conditions

The working environment and circumstances affecting workers, which were often poor during the early Industrial Revolution.

Child Labor

The employment of children in industry or business, often under harsh conditions.

Reformers

Individuals or groups advocating for change in societal norms, laws, and practices, especially regarding labor rights.

Trade Unions

Organized associations of workers formed to protect and further their rights and interests.

Chartism

A working-class movement in the UK aimed at political reforms, including universal male suffrage.

Great Exhibition

An international exhibition of manufactured products held in 1851, showcasing Britain's industrial achievements.

Social Class

A division of a society based on social and economic status, heavily impacted by the changes in industry.

Transportation Revolution

A period of rapid expansion and improvement in transportation, including railroads and steamships that facilitated the movement of goods and people.

Standard of Living

A measure of the wealth, comfort, material goods, and necessities available to a certain socioeconomic class.

Industrial Capitalism

An economic system in which business owners control factories and other means of producing goods for profit.