The economic, social and technological changes that transformed Britain during the Victorian era.
Industrialization: The process of introducing machines and mechanization to industries that was a key factor in the Industrial Revolution.
Factory System: A system in which workers were employed in factories where goods were mass-produced using machines and assembly lines.
Urbanization: The movement of people from rural areas to cities, which was a result of the growth of industries and factory systems.
Scientific Revolution: The time period during which new scientific inventions and discoveries were made, which provided the foundation for many of the ideas and innovations that formed the backdrop of the Industrial Revolution.
Agriculture: The changes in agriculture practices, along with the use of new technologies, helped increase crop yields and improve farming.
Transport: The improvements in transportation, including roads, railways, and canals, helped to connect different parts of the country and made it easier for goods to be transported to markets.
Textiles: The growth of the textile industry, which was the first industry to be mechanized, led to the development of the spinning jenny, power loom, and other textile machinery.
Steam Engine: The invention of the steam engine revolutionized transportation and industry, and was a key factor in the growth of the Industrial Revolution.
Iron and Steel: The use of iron and steel in manufacturing and construction, which spurred on many other industries including railroads, machinery and shipbuilding.
Mining: The growth of coal mining was another important factor that contributed to the development of the Industrial Revolution.
Labour conditions: The conditions in which the labour force worked in factories improved over time but at initially these were shocking conditions.
Machine politics: Residences of industry centers often faced harsh and sometimes brutal politics that sought to control the city's revenue streams to benefit its elites.
Education: Education reform played a key role in the Industrial Revolution to foster innovation and better development of technology and ideas.
Engineering: The engineering practices that developed during the Industrial Revolution are still used today, including steam power, electrical power and assembly line practices.
First Industrial Revolution: Occurred from the late 18th century to the mid-19th century. Characterized by the transition from manual labor to machine-based production. Innovations like the spinning jenny, steam engine, and power loom powered industrialization.
Second Industrial Revolution: Took place from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century. Marked by significant advancements in transportation, communication, and electricity. The invention of the telephone, telegraph, and light bulb, the expansion of steamships, and the growth of railroads were central to this revolution.
Third Industrial Revolution: Also referred to as the Digital Revolution, this period covers the late 20th century and early 21st century. It marks the shift from analog electronic mechanisms to digital technology. Massive innovations in computers, networking, and communications have been a hallmark of this era.
Fourth Industrial Revolution: Refers to the current phase of the technological revolution, characterized by the integration of physical and digital systems, including artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and automation. It represents the fusion of different aspects of technology, the creation of cyber-physical systems and digital spaces, and the emergence of new business models.