The Industrial Revolution was one of the most profound and impactful events to occur in human history. Taking place during the 1700’s and 1800’s, the revolution shifted millions of people from their traditionally agrarian lifestyles in the countryside to industrial lifestyles in urban settings. Before the massive factories were set up, most manufacturing was done on a small scale by craftsmen, often at their homes with rudimentary tools and machines. The shift to purpose-built machinery and mass production allowed many countries to greatly expand their wealth and take dominant roles in new industries and the global economy. These are but a few facts about the industrial revolution.
From improved transportation systems powered by steam and fossil fuels to faster communication across the ocean to centralized banking in the major metropolises, the Industrial Revolution synthesized and simplified many seemingly disparate areas of life. While many in the upper classes saw their standard of living improve, many of the poor and working classes were thrown into the dingy squalor of overcrowded, unsafe factories and forced to work long overtime by whip-cracking bosses. To find out about what shaped modern-day history and what we have to thank for the automobile, condominiums, and even smartphones, check out this list of 25 Facts About the Industrial Revolution.
