Essay Sample about Effects of the Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution was a period from 1760 to 1840 in Great Britain, Europe and was a catalyst for growth. An Industrial Revolution is the transition of an economy based on agriculture to industry. The revolution resulted in societal, economic, and political changes, further transforming Europe.

This revolution started in Europe by benefiting from the Agricultural Revolution’s increase in production. The increase was caused by many new farming techniques and technology. For instance: the enclosure of common land to increase output, a system of rotating crops in fields which allowed nutrients to replenish, and breeding animals to be stronger and faster. Increased food supply led to heathier people, who, in turn, created healthier babies; thereby decreasing death rates and majorly increasing population. In addition, efficient farming techniques lessened the need for farmers. The abundance of unemployed workers led to urbanization where people created manufacturing factories and could employee many workers. Over time, these new agricultural practices paved the way for an industrialized society and world.

Because of its exponential growth and perfect placement, Great Britain became the first country to industrialize in Europe and the world. Britain benefited from its large quantity of crucial natural resources, such as coal and iron. It reaped the benefits of its agricultural revolution, giving them a large workforce needed to fill new factories. In addition, Britian’s growing, and prosperous middle class created a strong capital for investment. Lastly, the country’s strong military, especially its powerful navy, aided in Britain’s success. Only with these advantages, Great Britain became the first to industrialize and could progress as a nation. 

Despite the Industrial Revolution increasing job opportunities, it was simultaneously the cause of poor working and living conditions for the working class. Workers and their families lived in tenements which were substandard apartment buildings lacking: space, amenities, insulation, running water, bathrooms, and privacy. Factories, having perpetual substitutions of workers, could sacrifice them for cheap but unsafe working conditions. Workers were often injured or killed by lint filled air and dangerous machinery. Everyone suffered; however, women and children were subjected to the worst. Women and children workers could be paid less, adapted to new conditions quickly, and were easily reprimanded. The working class continued to suffer these inequalities as their country prospered. However, the eventual rights gained would allow them to demand better working and living conditions, revolutionizing society again.  

The Industrial Revolution remains a pivotal time in history due to the Agricultural Revolution. It caused urbanization, new job opportunities, and technological advances in Great Britain. However, it was also the source of women and children’s exploitation. Regardless, it allowed Europe, and the world to grow.