The Industrial Revolution

These flashcards cover key concepts and significant details about the Industrial Revolution, including its origins, inventions, impacts on society, and working conditions.

What was the Industrial Revolution?

A period of massive advancement in technology leading to mass production and social changes, which began in the mid 1700s.

Where did the Industrial Revolution begin?

The Industrial Revolution began in Great Britain.

What are some factors that led to the Industrial Revolution?

A stable government, capital for investments, foreign trade power, and improvements in agriculture.

What was 'The Flying Shuttle'?

An invention by John Kay in 1733 that doubled the weaving capacity of a person per day.

Who invented 'The Water Frame'?

Richard Arkwright invented 'The Water Frame' in 1769, using water power for spinning wheels.

What is 'The Spinning Mule'?

An invention by Samuel Crompton in 1779 that combined the spinning jenny and the water frame.

What did 'The Power Loom' do?

Invented by Edmund Cartwright in 1787, it used water power to speed up weaving.

What were 'Steam Powered Pumps' used for?

Primitive steam engines used by miners to pump water out of mine shafts in the early 1700s.

What improvements did James Watt make to the steam engine?

James Watt made the steam engine practical by making it burn more quickly and efficiently in 1765.

What was significant about Richard Trevithick's steam-powered locomotive in 1804?

He successfully hauled 10 tons over 10 miles with a steam-powered locomotive.

What was the first railroad line?

The first rail line opened in 1826, designed and built by George Stephenson.

What challenges did workers face in early factories?

Workers endured long hours, tough discipline, low pay, dangerous conditions, and repetitive tasks.

Who were many of the first workers in factories?

Many were orphans forced into labor, sometimes for up to 14 years.

What were typical working hours in early factories?

Workers often worked 13 to 14 hours a day, six days a week.

What was the most dangerous job during the Industrial Revolution?

Mining was considered the most dangerous job due to frequent accidents and harsh conditions.

What legislative actions were taken regarding child labor?

The English Parliament eventually limited and banned child labor.

What does urbanization refer to?

The process of people moving from countryside to cities for jobs in factories.

What problems arose in rapidly growing cities?

Problems included lack of housing, sanitation, social services, and outbreaks of diseases.

What is socialism in the context of the Industrial Revolution?

A system where society owns factories and production means, usually through government.

How did wealthier citizens respond to urbanization?

Wealthy citizens often built homes in suburbs to escape the filth and noise of cities.

What were some positive effects of the Industrial Revolution?

It created jobs, raised living standards, and made goods more affordable and accessible.

What did labor unions achieve during the Industrial Revolution?

Labor unions helped workers win higher wages, safer working conditions, and shorter hours.

How did the Industrial Revolution impact the middle and upper classes?

They benefited immediately from the economic opportunities created by the Industrial Revolution.

What did the Industrial Revolution set the stage for?

It set the stage for future technological advances.

What was a major change in production methods during the Industrial Revolution?

Production shifted from cottage industry to factories.

Which epidemic spread rapidly due to poor living conditions?

Cholera was one epidemic that spread rapidly in crowded conditions.

What condition characterized early factory work?

Conditions were often severe, with long hours and dangerous environments.

What quality of life improvements did the Industrial Revolution bring?

Over time, it raised standards of living and made goods more readily available.

What invention revolutionized transportation on water during the Industrial Revolution?

The steamboat, invented by Robert Fulton, revolutionized water transportation.

What was a common housing situation for factory workers in cities?

Many workers lived in overcrowded one-room apartments.

What did many factories prioritize that put workers at risk?

Factories often prioritized production speed over worker safety.