Industrial Revolution - Essay Example

Industrial Revolution During the period between 1760 and 1850, fundamental changes took place in manufacturing processes, culminating into the transition from hand-based production methods to machines, chemical processes and the use of steam power. This era was known as the Industrial Revolution and, in particular, transformed the textile, metal, transport and agriculture industries as well as social structure and economic policies in Britain. For the Industrial Revolution to occur, various conditions had to be in place.

This paper will research on the important conditions, technological developments, and productive innovations that developed in Britain during the late eighteenth century and the first half of the nineteenth century that spurred on the Industrial Revolution. In Britain, the cultural and legal foundations that existed provided favourable conditions that enabled entrepreneurs in the late eighteenth century and early nineteenth century to initiate the Industrial Revolution. The most significant were the period of stability and peace that came after Scotland and England were unified; a legal system that permitted the establishment of corporations (or joint-stock companies); the removal of trade barriers between Scotland and England; the rule of law that respected the sanctity of agreements; and capitalism (or free markets).

During that period, water provided the easiest transportation mode and Britain was greatly advantaged by its geographical location and presence of natural resources, as well as access to Europe’s high quality coal. Coupled with the entrepreneurial and self-interest spirits, Britain was able to advance in terms of growing personal wealth. Since Britain is an island, it relied on maritime trade. As slave and foreign trade put new demands on the movement of people and distribution of products, innovations in the shipping industry had to be brought in.

This led to improvements in shipbuilding and the emergence of the ship repair industry. The technological advances that fueled these developments included the prologue of steam power and the use of steel and iron in building merchant ships. The result was safer, more reliable and faster sea travel beyond rivers into ocean voyages. Architectural and infrastructural changes included transport systems made up of expanded railways, improved roads and iron bridges. Steam engines were also adopted in locomotives.

Canals that connected industrial centers, trading centers, coalfields and ports were also dug. For example, Liverpool and Manchester were linked by canals, promoting the textile industry in the early nineteenth century. By this time, military production also promoted the innovation and development of machine tools. For example, at the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich, a machine tool trainer known as Henry Maudslay trained tool makers in developing wooden machines used in boring cannons. He also developed and produced metal locks and later improved on the slide rest lathe that was used to cut machine screws.

In conclusion, technological improvements and scientific innovations contributed towards the progression of agriculture, trade, shipping, economic expansion and industry. As production grew, it simultaneously became necessary to create well-organised transport systems which boosted the Industrial Revolution. These developments, consequently, led to the adoption of steam-powered locomotives and better connected railways and roads that eventually led to more reliable, cheaper, easier, quicker and safer transportation of goods and traders.