The Industrial Revolution 1760 1840 A good thing

The Industrial Revolution 1760 - 1840 A good thing or a bad thing?

Industry & Transportation • The first major advancement in transportation was the development of the steamboat. (Robert Fulton) • The second transportation advancement was the construction of canals. (Erie Canal) • The Erie Canal helped to make New York City the nation’s greatest commercial center. • The most dramatic advancement was the arrival of railroads in the 1820’s.

The Industrial Revolution • Began in Great Britain and focused on machines being powered by steam or water rather than by hand. • Samuel Slater built the nation’s first water-powered textile mill in RI. Became known as the father of the American Industrial Revolution • Lowell Mills – First factories to employ young single women, they were called “Lowell Girls” • The invention of the cotton gin by Eli Whitney with interchangeable parts led to the factory system.

Samuel Slater’s Mill Today

The Erie Canal in 1825 • Construction began in 1817 • A 363 mile man-made waterway from the Hudson to Lake Ontario and Lake Erie

The Erie Canal Today

Industrial Rev. Cont. • As the factory system spread, manufacturers required more power. Thus, their was a move to steam power. • In 1837, Samuel F. B. Morse invented the electric telegraph. (Morse Code) • The steel plow helped the American farming industry remain the largest in the country.

Telegraph

Morse Code

Good or bad? The Good • Increased wealth for nations • Products became more affordable • Transportation improved • More jobs The Bad • Long working hours • Urbanization • Automation = Unemployment • Poor working conditions

The Industrial Revolution Video (11. 04)