The Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution

The era known as the Industrial Revolution was a period in which fundamental changes occurred in agriculture, textile and metal manufacture, transportation, economic policies and the social structure in England, then spread through Europe and America. The changes occurred during 1760- 1850. Since London is England's capital it was largely affected. The industrial revolution began in the late 1700's with inventions such as the spinning jenny, steam engine, flying shuttle, water-powered frame. These inventions made life a lot easier for working class people.

Growth of Cities:

The population of cities boomed during the industrial revolution. Many farmers and peasants sold their farms and moved to cites such as London to work in factories. This caused extreme over population, and horrible living conditions. The lower class usually lived in homes that would share toilet facilities, have open sewers and would be filled with rodents and decease. However, conditions did improve during the 19th century as a number of public health acts were introduced covering issues such as sewage, sanitation and imposing some restrictions upon the construction of homes.

Labor Conditions:

Most of the poor in cities worked in factories handling heavy and dangerous equipment. The majority of these factories employees were very young children (usually 5-14 years old) and women. Employers preferred having women and children work for them instead of men because kids and females were paid less, and could be mistreated, under paid, and discriminated against.

Inventions:

Inventions brought on the most drastic changes during both Industrial Revolutions. Machines made life easier and decreased prices and generally improved life. Before the 1750's