Chapter 4: The Age of Industrialisation
Overview
The Age of Industrialisation marks a significant period in world history that transformed economies, societies, and cultures. This chapter explores the pre-industrial world, the emergence of industries, their impact on different social groups, and how industrialization spread globally. It also highlights the role of colonialism in shaping industrial growth.
Before the Industrial Revolution
Before industries and factories emerged, most goods were produced by hand or in small workshops. Important aspects of pre-industrial production include:
Proto-Industrialisation
- A phase before large-scale factory-based industrialization.
- Goods were produced by rural households who worked for merchants.
- This system connected rural workers to international markets, especially in Europe.
Handicrafts and Artisanal Production
- Skilled artisans made goods like textiles, iron tools, and pottery.
- These industries were controlled by guilds, which regulated quality and prices.
The Industrial Revolution in Britain
Britain was the first country to experience the Industrial Revolution due to several factors:
Factors Leading to Industrialisation in Britain
- Availability of Capital and Banking System – Investments in industries and trade.
- Natural Resources – Coal and iron ore were essential for machines.
- Agricultural Revolution – Increased food production led to population growth and labor surplus.
- Technological Innovations – The invention of the steam engine, spinning jenny, and power loom boosted production.
- Colonial Trade – Raw materials from colonies and export markets fueled industrial growth.
Industries and Their Growth
- Textile Industry – The first industry to be mechanized; inventions like the spinning jenny (James Hargreaves) and power loom (Edmund Cartwright) revolutionized textile production.
- Iron and Steel Industry – Improved techniques (Bessemer Process) led to the expansion of railways and construction.
- Coal Mining – Provided energy for steam engines and industrial machinery.
Industrialisation in Europe and Beyond
Industrialization spread from Britain to other parts of Europe and the world.
Industrialisation in Other Countries
- Germany and France – Focused on heavy industries and railways.
- USA – Became a major industrial power in the late 19th century, driven by inventions and large-scale production.
- Japan – Adopted Western technology during the Meiji Restoration to modernize industries.
Role of Colonies in Industrial Growth
- Colonies supplied raw materials like cotton (India, Egypt) and were markets for manufactured goods.
- British policies restricted industrial growth in colonies to benefit British industries.
Impact of Industrialisation
Industrialisation had both positive and negative effects on different sections of society.
Positive Effects
- Increase in production and economic growth.
- Growth of cities and urbanization.
- Technological advancements improved transport and communication.
Negative Effects
- Harsh working conditions in factories, long hours, and low wages.
- Rise of slums and poor living conditions for workers.
- Loss of traditional handicrafts due to machine-made goods.
Industrialisation in India
India had a rich tradition of handicrafts and textile production before British rule. However, industrialization in India was shaped by colonial policies.
Decline of Indian Handicrafts
- British policies discouraged local industries to promote British goods.
- Heavy taxation and competition with cheap British machine-made textiles led to the decline of traditional industries.
Emergence of Modern Industries
- Cotton Mills – Bombay and Ahmedabad became centers of textile production.
- Jute Mills – Developed in Bengal, supplying sacks and ropes.
- Iron and Steel Industry – Tata Iron and Steel Company (TISCO) was established in 1907, marking India’s entry into heavy industries.
Workers, Protests, and Labor Movements
Industrialisation led to the emergence of the working class, which faced exploitation and poor working conditions.
Working Conditions in Factories
- Workers had long hours (12-14 hours per day) and low wages.
- Women and children were employed under harsh conditions.
- Lack of health and safety measures led to frequent accidents.
Worker Movements and Trade Unions
- Workers organized strikes and protests demanding better wages and conditions.
- Early trade unions emerged to fight for workers’ rights.
Conclusion
The Age of Industrialisation transformed societies, economies, and global trade. While it brought technological advancements and economic growth, it also led to social inequalities and exploitation of workers. Understanding this period helps us analyze the long-term impact of industrialization on modern economies and labor movements.