Chapter 3 · History
The Industrial Revolution
Source: Handbook p.35
The Industrial Revolution began in Britain in the late 18th century. Key developments:
• James Watt improved the steam engine
• Richard Arkwright developed the spinning frame for textile production
• Factories replaced cottage industries
• Massive urbanisation as people moved from countryside to cities
• Britain became the world's first industrial nation
• Iron and steel production, coal mining, and textiles were key industries
• Led to both great wealth and terrible working conditions
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