Industrial Revolution 1750 1850 Revolution What is a

Industrial Revolution 1750 -1850

Revolution What is a “revolution” In terms of history, a revolution is a time of very rapid change. Historical change normally takes place through a series of small steps but every now and then the changes speed up. In most cases, this accelerated change is referred to as a “revolution”.

My Generation – 1980’s

Your Generation – 2013

The Industrial Revolution From what we have discussed about revolutions, what do we think happened during the Industrial Revolution from 1750 to 1850?

The Industrial Revolution The changes that occurred can be divided into two categories: Technology and Progress The Impact on People

Technology and Progress Agricultural Practices The traditional method of open-field farming became inefficient as 1/3 of the land had to be left unplanted each year. Plant and animal diseases could be easily spread and there was little opportunity for innovation. Changes to agricultural practices that helped encourage the Industrial Revolution: § Enclosure of the open fields; § New techniques in farming; and § Farming became more business orientated.

Technology and Progress Power Generation Traditional methods of power generation included: § Horse power § Water power § Wind power The most significant advance in power generation came in the form of Steam Power. Steam engines were able to power larger machines, which in turn led to larger factories.

Technology and Progress Use of Natural Resources Traditionally, people would use wood or charcoal as a form of energy but steam engines helped increase coal production. Because coal burned longer and hotter than wood or charcoal, it started to be used more often. The use of coal eventually lead to better iron production methods. This meant better quality iron for a cheap price and more large scale production. Iron could be used to create machinery for factories, engines for power generation as well as other tools and equipment.

Technology and Progress Making Goods Until the 18 th century, products like textiles were produced by farmers and their families to earn extra money. Innovations in the equipment that could be used to produce textiles leads to the production moving from the farm to the factory. This was the case for many products. As production methods improved, factories were needed to house the equipment and workers.

Technology and Progress Transportation As factories needed more raw materials and began producing more products, transportation needed to improve. Transportation of materials and goods was traditionally done using canals and roads. While these still remained important, the growth of railways was a significant part of the Industrial Revolution. Railways allowed for more fast, efficient transport.

The Impact on People Employment As farming practices changed so did the employment options for a majority of the population. More and more people were forced to get jobs in factories and mines. Conditions in the factories and mines were not always the best: E. g. Working in a textile factory was unpleasant and dangerous. There was poor light and ventilation as well as excessive heat. The machines used were not safe.

The Impact on People Children In the 18 th century, it was not uncommon for children to help support their family by working on a farm with their parents. When jobs were not as available in farming, children were forced to get jobs in the factories and mines. The parents were not always able to supervise their children. As such, children were often subjected to harsh, brutal and unsafe conditions.

The Impact on People Health Conditions The British population began to increase steadily during the beginning of the 18 th century and lead to a population explosion after 1760. Having more and more people in cities meant there was a great deal of overcrowding. Like in medieval times, overcrowding and a lack of sanitation meant that many people became sick with diseases such as cholera and typhus.

The Impact on People Standards of Living Life for a person living in poverty during the Industrial Revolution was harsh. Many ended up in Poor Workhouses where the conditions were unpleasant. New Poor Laws meant that families could be separated and all members put to work in demeaning and unsafe jobs. The rules of a Poorhouse were strict and punishment for breaking the riles could be savage. Meals were the bear minimum – just enough to survive.

The Impact on People Social Unrest With such dangerous conditions in the factories and mines, workers organised protests and riots. The Luddites – committed industrial espionage by damaging machines used in textile production. Many were executed or sent to the colonies as punishment.

The Impact on People Trade Unions During the Industrial Revolution, more and more workers were grouped together in factories and mines. With terrible working conditions, these worker started to organise into unions to lobby for change. Politicians at the time made unions illegal but these types of organisations still have a role today.

Extension Activity Consider the following question: Given what we know now, was the Industrial Revolution good or bad for society? Justify your response with specific facts that support your opinion.