Industrial Revolution

Industrial Revolution

A period of major industrialization and innovation that began in Great Britain and spread globally, transforming economies, societies, and technologies.

First Industrial Revolution

Roughly from the late 18th century to the mid-19th century, characterized by a shift from agrarian to industrial economies.

Second Industrial Revolution

Occurred from the late 19th to early 20th century, marked by further advancements in technology and industrial processes.

Factory System

Centralization of production in factories, leading to mass production.

Urbanization

Mass migration of people from rural areas to urban centers in search of work.

Capitalism

An economic system characterized by private ownership and free markets.

Agricultural Revolution

A period of increased food production that led to population growth and surplus labor.

Steam Engine

An innovative machine improved by James Watt in 1765, which provided a reliable power source for multiple industries.

Textile Industry Innovations

Key inventions that revolutionized textile manufacturing, including the Flying Shuttle, Spinning Jenny, Water Frame, and Power Loom.

Laissez-faire Economics

An economic theory advocated by Adam Smith suggesting minimal government intervention in the economy.

Labor Conditions during Industrial Revolution

Characterized by long working hours, low wages, dangerous working environments, and child labor.

Proletariat

The industrial working class that emerged during the Industrial Revolution.

Karl Marx

The philosopher who authored the Communist Manifesto, critiquing capitalism and calling for worker rights.

Bessemer process

A method for producing higher quality steel, revolutionizing construction and manufacturing.

Socialism

An ideology that arose in response to industrial challenges, advocating for collective or governmental ownership of production.

Impact on Family Life

The shift from home-based production to factory work changed traditional family dynamics and roles.

Labor Movements

Efforts by workers to improve their working conditions, wages, and rights, leading to the formation of unions.

Legacy of the Industrial Revolution

Laid the groundwork for the modern industrial world, transforming global power dynamics and influencing economic discussions.