⚙️The Industrial Revolution

How Britain became the first country to industrialise.

1. An agricultural nation

   ▸

   Before the 18th century, agriculture was the biggest source of employment in Britain, and many people worked from home in cottage industries making cloth and lace.

2. Machinery and steam power

   ▸

   The Industrial Revolution was the rapid development of industry in the 18th and 19th centuries, driven by the development of machinery and the use of steam power.

   then came

3. Britain leads the way

   ▸

   Britain was the first country to industrialise on a large scale. Agriculture and the making of goods became mechanised, making production more efficient.

   and as a result

4. People move to the towns

   ▸

   Coal and raw materials were needed to power the new factories, and many people moved from the countryside to work in the mining and manufacturing industries.

   which meant

5. Canals and railways

   ▸

   Canals were built to link factories to towns and ports, and the Bessemer process for mass-producing steel led to the shipbuilding industry and the railways.

   and to move goods

6. Poor working conditions

   ▸

   Working conditions were very poor. There were no laws to protect employees, who often worked long hours in dangerous situations, and children worked like adults.