Over the course of time, the manufacturing
process has undergone numerous changes.
Where items were once produced by hand,
industries found ways to use machines to
increase productivity. This change began in
England in the 18th century, eventually
expanded to neighboring countries such as
France and Germany, and by the late 18th
century, came overseas to the United
States.
Timeline Index
The impact the Industrial Revolution had on
the way items were produced was far
reaching. Industries such as textile
manufacturing, mining, glass making, and
agriculture were all radically changed. For
example, prior to the Industrial
Revolution, textiles were primarily made of
wool, which was hand spun. With the
invention of the spinning wheel and the
loom, cotton was produced more quickly and
eventually replaced wool in the textile
field. This dramatically reduced production
time and the cost to produce material.
Advances such as these were evident in all
industries during this era. Inventions such
as the spinning wheel to product textiles,
the water wheel to power machinery, and the
steam engine were introduced during this
era.
Industries in the Industrial Revolution
Inventions during the Industrial Revolution
As more work was being produced, more
workers were called on to fill jobs in
factories. These positions were now being
filled by women and children who started to
join the work force. Prior to this time
period, families worked together in
agriculture or in family-run businesses.
With manufacturing now done in factories,
and with the increased demand, workers left
their homes behind.
The role of women in the Industrial Revolution
With materials now being produced more
quickly and cheaply, the demand for
manufactured goods exceeded the supply.
This shortage forced factories to increase
production hours and placed difficult
demands on the men, women, and children in
the workplace. These demands became
increasingly difficult to achieve and
ultimately led to laws to protect workers.
In 1833, the Factory Act was passed to
place restrictions on working hours of
children, and set standards that factories
needed to attain.
Working conditions
Child labor during the Industrial Revolution
With the government beginning to watch the
industries, the changes also led to the
beginnings of the labor movement. Workers
began to have a voice in the workplace, and
the factories were beginning to listen.
Rise of Labor Unions
With the advent of machinery to ease
workloads, the Industrial Revolution spread
to several areas. Inventions in the modern
day printing press led to the growth of the
newspaper industry. In addition, the steam
engine made travel faster than the previous
method of horse and wagon. With new
transportation methods, railroads, roads,
and our transportation infrastructure began
during this era.
Industrial Revolution
Advances during the Industrial Revolution
The Industrial Revolution was one of the
most important events in history. The
foundation that was set during this time
period is the basis of today’s modern
society. The technology and services that
we enjoy today can trace their roots to
this era.
Impact of the Industrial Revolution
Overview of Industrial Revolution |