Ch 9.3 Industrialization Spreads
The Industrial Revolution
Main Idea
The Industrial Revolution, which began in Great Britain, spread globally.
It laid the groundwork for modern cities and a global economy.
Why It Matters Now
Understanding industrialization helps comprehend modern economic structures and urbanization.
Key Terms & Names
Stock: Represents ownership in a corporation, giving stockholders a share in profits without liability for debts.
Corporation: A type of business organization that allows for shared ownership through stock, enabling large scale industrial investment.
Setting the Stage
Geography & Resources: Great Britain's geography, financial systems, political stability, and natural resources like coal and iron were crucial.
British merchants built the world’s first factories, leading to increased production.
The Industrial Revolution spread to the U.S. and continental Europe where similar conditions existed.
Industrial Development in the United States
The U.S. had resources like fast rivers, coal, iron ore, and a workforce from farms and immigration.
The War of 1812 stimulated domestic industry due to blockades preventing imports.
Early Industrialization
Began in textiles, with Samuel Slater smuggling British designs to establish the first U.S. factory in Rhode Island.
Francis Cabot Lowell revolutionized the textile industry by mechanizing cloth production in Massachusetts, leading to the growth of Lowell as a manufacturing hub.
Expansion of U.S. Industry
The Northeast saw significant industrial growth pre-Civil War, remaining primarily agricultural until 1865.
Post-war, a technological boom occurred fueled by resources, inventions, and urbanization.
Railroads were vital for industrial growth, linking cities like Chicago and Minneapolis with resources and markets.
The Rise of Corporations
Corporations emerged to raise capital for large-scale operations, like railroads, through selling stock.
Notable corporations included Standard Oil and Carnegie Steel, pursued profits while minimizing production costs.
Continental Europe Industrializes
Europe initially fell behind due to political turmoil from the French Revolution and conflicts.
Industrialization later took root in regions like Belgium and Germany, often through British-trained workers and technologies.
Belgium's Industrialization
Belgium led Europe due to its resources and skilled labor, fostering rapid industrial growth.
William Cockerill smuggled British technology to Belgium, establishing successful industries.
Germany's Industrialization
Initially fragmented, Germany began industrializing by adopting British methods and building railroads.
By the late 1800s, Germany emerged as a significant industrial and military power.
Expansion Elsewhere in Europe
Other European nations developed industrial pockets; agriculture dominated in many, limiting urbanization.
Industrial growth varied, with France progressing steadily and avoiding major social unrest due to strong agrarian ties.
Industrialization in Japan
The Meiji Restoration (1868) initiated Japan’s transformation into an industrial state with government support for industries.
Companies like Mitsubishi grew, contributing to Japan's economic and military strength.
The Impact of Industrialization
The Industrial Revolution altered the global balance of power, increasing competition and poverty in less-developed countries.
Industrialized countries exploited colonies for resources, creating global inequality while strengthening economic ties.
Social Changes: Industrialization improved living standards over time, fostering the middle class and leading to social reforms.
Conclusion
The Industrial Revolution fundamentally reshaped economies, societies, and global relationships, influencing modern development.