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- While the effects of the Industrial Revolution on social bonds and the like can be debated, it’s clear that the process brought unprecedented material prosperity. Here are some resources refuting the Marxist interpretation of the Industrial Revolution as harmful to the working class.
- Ludwig von Mises on the Industrial Revolution in Human Action
- Wendy McElroy on the impact of the Industrial Revolution on women
- F.A. Hayek’s Capitalism and the Historians
- Unfortunately, the best known historian of the Industrial Revolution is probably Marxist Eric Hobsbawm; see his Age of Revolution or Industry and Empire for examples of his writing.
- See the writings of 19th-century author Samuel Smiles for biographical information on the great figures of the Industrial Revolution.
Industrial Revolution in Britain – Quiz
- A key phrase associated with the Industrial Revolution is “mass _____________ for mass __________________.”
- Identify at least two reasons why the Industrial Revolution began in Britain rather than some other country.
- The ______________ industry led the way in the Industrial Revolution.
- _____________ became the dominant fabric in manufacturing.
- ___________________ invented the water frame and also was a pioneer in the factory system.
- ________________ developed the condensing steam engine.
- Identify at least three social changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution.
- production; consumption
- natural resources; waterways; absence of cultural prejudice against commerce; flexible socioeconomic environment
- textile
- cotton
- Richard Arkwright
- James Watt
- urbanization; population growth; capital accumulation; rising standard of living