Discussion Post #8

What was so "revolutionary" about the Industrial Revolution?

This post will close on January 26 at 5:00 PM.

100 Comments

The Industrial Revolution marked not only a leap in technology, but also sparked a shift in politics and society. For example, the arrival of large factories brought about harsh working conditions. These conditions led to the unionization of factory workers, particularly in Britain. As a result, the Labor Party was formed, a party which still exists in full force today.
Beyond this, advances in railroads and other transportation created a faster way to move goods across countries, such as the United States.
As industry skyrocketed, the demand for raw materials also rose. This caused a new form of colonialism amongst western powers, as seen in the colonization of Africa and even that of China in the 19th century. France, Britain, Germany, and the Netherlands all vied for control of resources in these new lands.

The Industrial revolution marked a new era in technology just as the American revolution marked a new era in politics and economics. As Tommy said, the use of industrialization to quickly produce better quality objects increased and demanded more raw materials. France, Britain, the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium, and other Western countries began colonizing areas that have the abundance in materials they need. China, India, and Africa became the main sources of materials such as cotton, silk, diamonds, gold, copper, rice, oil, tin, and others.
Also using machines to do jobs decreased the number of available occupations for the people. They began working for other people at home, in mines, and doing whatever they could to earn a living.
The revolution brought around new forms of transportation, communication, and production of goods.
The unionization of factory workers also resulted in Britain fighting other countries in order to help the working conditions.
Unfortunately, colonizing Africa, China, and India resulted in many revolts because of unfair treatment and displacement of natives.

The Industrial Revolution was quite revolutionary. It changed the way the world worked. Suddenly a factory could make triple or even quadruple what they normally made in a day due to new advances. Unfortunately, the influx of new technology gave way to people manipulating it. Seatshops became a problem all over the world as hundreds of people were forced to work for next to nothing in a very unsafe work environment. This would eventually lead to such things a s unions and the like.

Not only did the Industrial Revolution usher in a new era of economic prosperity and social change, it also brought about a massive change in demographics within society. Whereas before people lived in small communal villages that relied on subsistence farming for their survival, now people were beginning to move to large cities and take up specialized jobs. To cope with this massive influx of population the bureaucracy and social services of cities had to be expanded exponentially, and eventually resulted in the various civil codes, laws, and constitutions we have today. The Industrial Revolution was revolutionary in the sense that it changed the way people lived, worked, and saw the world around them. It delegated power from rural areas to urban population centers, and created the lasting class distinctions we have today such as industrialists, rich people, etc...

Responding to Tommy Bello's first post, I believe your completely accurate in your statement that the Industrial Revolution has shaped the modern world. However, today those countries that were once exploited by the imperialist powers of old Europe are now becoming prominent players upon the world stage. The old colonies have learned from their European masters, and thus the balance between master and slave has shifted to a more equal standpoint.

Responding to Rick, you make valid points in your arguement of the revolutionary part of the Industrial Revolution. I would like to point out however that in the beginning the putting-out system actually prevented factory workers from being exploited, rather it was the people not joined with the factory who felt the full brunt of market forces. Only after factories grew larger and integrated a bigger portion of the work force did traits of the Industrial Revolution such as poverty, poor working conditions, and child labor fully came into force.

The Industrial Revolution caused a huge shift in the way we live our lives today. Without such machines as the steam engine, the cotton gin and many others, the world would be completely different from what it is today. The Industrial Revolution was not only about new inventions and more advanced machinary. Because of these advancements, farming became a much easier task, requiring less workers than were needed before the revolution. Since not as many workers were needed in the fields, people would move into the cities so that they could find more work. When they went to find more work, many ended up working in factories. This chain of events is almost like a cycle. Yet another factor that made the Industrius Revolution so very, well, industrius!

@Frank: I completely agree with your points. I also like your analysis of the class distinctions made as a part of the Industrial Revolution that have lasted until today. I also thought it was interesting to note that the formation of labor unions in the UK led to the creation of the Labor Party. For those who don't know, the labor party is today the dominant left-wing party in the UK. Clearly, this was a revolution that changed the way we view politics and society, as its effects are still felt in full force today.

The Industrial Revolution had many effects on the lives of those who were involved. The most obvious of these is the change in technology, such as the creation of the railroad and steam ship. However, the effects of this creation are not only changing efficiency and technological development, but also the society and economy of the time. Many devices created caused jobs to be centered far more greatly on factories rather than plantations, changing the population density greatly. It also led to the greater levels of implementation of capitalism, as labor unions and private institutions would lead to greater competition than any prevoius system. In all, the Industrial Revolution was a major economic, intellectual, and social change.

@ Frank
I agree with many of your points. The shift away from plantations allowed for the specialization of far more workers. The law changes, such as ones concerning unions, were also present and an important factor. The creation of new classes is also an important social change, brought about by changing conditions, which could be seen as those which would be supported by men such as Adam Smith. Your statements about this are valid and important factors of this great change.

Industrialization i think was very revolutionary because it took a lot of new technology and tools to make the factories. What it did was make more jobs for people, but under harsh working conditions and little pay. And it also had people buy off farmers' farms and their neighbors' and make a larger farm and make it more efficient so you pay less and get more.

@ Mariha ya i totally forgot about all new means of transportation they have now and ya unionization brought a lot of people from England who thought that the working conditions were horrible and wanted to find a new place to work. Like Alicia said it kind of is like a cycle too.

@ Alicia
other than the question of whether or not industrius is a word, I completely agree with you. Its like the circle of life in Lion King. Things are the way they are for a reason. Factories made machines helped farming and needed more workers, while the machines that were made required less workers on the farm. Maybe that is why factories made stuff like the tractor, so they could get farmers to fire workers and supply more workers for their factories so they could make more machines.

Many places havent gotten the full effect of the Industrial Revolution. Because the industrial revolution really hasnt stopped since it started. We have been improving things since the beginning, but Americans and Europeans are the only few who feel the whole luxury of this revolution. Places like India, China, Pakistan, I've heard even some parts of Bulgaria, dont have AC or washing machines or even full blown toilets, just holes in the ground with places on each side to put your feet!!

The industrial revolution was revolutionary because it changed peoples way of life. Many new machines were invented that greatly increased production. Also many people had to work long hard ours in poor factory conditions which caused unions and strikes. Also new technology such as steam ships and railroads changed the ways of life.

@Rick: I agree with you that the industrial revolution was an unfortunate change for some people, as it forced them to work under harsh conditions. Another important thing to note is that the industrial revolution increased neo-colonialism, such as the colonization of Africa and India by Britain and other European countries. Particularly in the case of Africa, this colonialism resulted in an under-developed economy and society, as native populations were forced to gather resources that were then shipped off to the dominant nation. That is the main cause of modern third-world countries; the Industrial Revolution benefited certain countries at the expense of other nations.

What was not revolutionary about the Industrial Revolution. It was different than all the others because rather than war this was accomplished with no blood shed practically. It was a HUGE "technological breakthrough" as Tommy put it. It just really set us off for advancement. Starting with cotton and iron. And how those were just the foundation of this incredible period in time. Steam Engines as well were a big deal. They made life so much more efficient by transporting things from one place to another ten times faster..even over ocean. This revolution was so unlike the others.Even the Scientific Revolution was just many discoveries but this was invention. That's what made it "revolutionary." People had never seen anything like it before.

Meant to put a "?" after the first sentence! Sorry.

@ Alicia:
I completely agree with you! I forgot how all of these conveniences caused people to move to the city and become factory workers. And with this, labor unions were made which are still around today. Just another reason the whole revolution is amazing! My point is you're totally right.

I think the most revolutionary think about the industrial revolution was the way the wealthy where able to exploit the commoners again. Think about it in the dark ages the land owners and nobles exploited them by reaping their harvest. In the colonial era the wealthy charted voyages and took all the profits from them. In the south plantation owners did it with slaves. Right before the industrial revolution workers and artisans especially were gain some credit.With this new boom in technology they where able to undermine the workers and take the profits. Once again man conquers man.

Everybody's pretty much right here about the new tech, but i don't think the tech is what was impressive. Whats impressive is how some people were able to capitalize on it. The technology would eventually come but the way some people harnessed it and turned a profit, now thats impressive. Adams smith's wealth of nations at work.

I know frank tommy ajay sean james and josh will all frown at me but i'm going to say it anyway. The most revolutionary thing is that the industrial revolution caused the cold war. The industrial revolution caused undermining and poor work conditions for the working class. This caused unionization of the workers. One of these involve Karl Marx, who led the socialist movement.Because of that the Communist manifesto was written. Communism spread to Russia and the soviet union was formed. After WW2 our capitalistic society tried to rid the world of communism. This sparked the cold war. Pretty cool but you can do it with any two things in history.

@ Elan. I agree withyour points on what Industrial Revolution as a whole. The steam engine and ship revolutionized trade and transportation and changed where it was and was not possible to travel to. The invention of mass production also made things much easier on workers. An example of this would be the spinning jenny.

The Industrial Revolution was very revolutionary. This is because it was a turning point in the world, just like any other revolution. During this revolution, new tecnologies were invented. For example new and easier ways to weave like the flying shuttle or the spinning jenny. Also new transportation systems were being introduced, like the steam ship. Factories started to become the most popular source of work, even though the workers worked long hours for little pay and were treated very poorly. All of this changed how the world worked, which is exactly what a revolution is.

The Industrial Revolution was the shift from the old to modern world. The world was compacted by trade; the need for transporting goods connected the worlds both physically and socially. The emergence of factories created standardized products, whose cheap and reliable nature increased the amount of purchases world wide. The Industrial Revolution simply changed everything.

The Industrial Revolution did not cause large cities. It did change them drastically them, but civilizations were centralized in concentrated areas since the neolithic age.

@ James
I agree with your points. The shipping improvements of the Industrial Revolution were very important, one of which even included crossing the Atlantic Ocean within the short span of time of 11 days. Trains were also an important development, as they allowed for mass shipping over a large distance. Factories, as you said, also allowed for mass production of goods without a loss of quality, improving the standards of living now that everyone would be able to afford what they wanted. In many ways, the Industrial Revolution led to the ability of many to acquire goods that would previously have been inacessible due to shipping or monetary concerns.

The industrial revolution was so revolutionary becasue it was what makes it possible for us to live our lives the way that we do today. During the industrial revolution the lives of many were changed, becasue there was a lot less need for labor. Also important inventions such as steam engines, and things made out of iron, changed transportation forever. Also, the industrial revolution was the beggining of the snowball effect that has made so much technology available today.

The industrial revolution was so revolutionary becasue it was what makes it possible for us to live our lives the way that we do today. During the industrial revolution the lives of many were changed, becasue there was a lot less need for labor. Also important inventions such as steam engines, and things made out of iron, changed transportation forever. Also, the industrial revolution was the beggining of the snowball effect that has made so much technology available today.

Rick:)

I compltetly agree with everything that you said. You brought up a few good points that i did not think of myself, such as that the industrial revolution greatly influenced how the world reacted, traded, and the econmics everywhere! Overall, i think that the industrial revolution was an extremely amazing event.

Rick:)

I completly agree with all of the points that you made! you even brought up some things that i hadnt thought of, suchas that the industrial revolution was influential on not only the peope but also the entire world! Nice work!

Rick:)

I completly agree with all of the points that you made! you even brought up some things that i hadnt thought of, suchas that the industrial revolution was influential on not only the peope but also the entire world! Nice work!

sorry, my computer doesnt work!

@James. I agree with your points on how the Industrial Revolution caused the change from the old to the modern world. So many new things were introduced so quickly that all of the sudden the entire infrastructure of the world had changed.

James-
I really thought that you made a good point by saying that the industrial revolution was a shift from the old world into the new world, I said something similar to that im mine as well but I think that the way that you worded it is much more effective. Also, what you said about the world being put together by trade in both physical and social ways also brought up a good point, because that is how it all started, and it is still like that today. Another good thing that you said was how the cheapness of the new manufactured products increased people buying them brought up a very good point! Overall, everything that you brought up made a very good point and was true!

As we all know, a revolution is a fundamental change in society. The Industrial Revolution marked a period of a huge advancement in technology and in the way things moved around the world. Large factories began prominent and steel and chemical industries also appeared. This caused a fundamental change in the way products were created and also in the way that workers were treated. Their working conditions got harsher and quite frankly, more disgusting and unsanitary. Some new inventions that were created were the Bessemer Steel converter in Britain (1856) and the Siemens-Martin open-hearth in Germany in 1864. Another change that makes the Industrial Revolution so "revolutionary" is that there was a breakthrough in advancement in cameras. In 1888 Eastman invented the Kodak and this allowed the mass production of pictures. This allowed the Crimean War and the Civil war to be photographed by Fenton and Brady respectively. The Industrial Revolution also displayed it's advancement in U.S. as sewing machines, typewriters, clocks, telephones, and cinemas all appeared in the U.S. during the Industrial Revolution. Therefore, the U.S. was the leader of mass market innovations. On a further note, shipping of goods also changed during the Industrial Revolution. Railroads appeared in the United States and allowed for a quicker and more productive way to move goods across countries.

Responding to Mariha S Pd 4...

I completely agree with everything that you said. It is so true that the Industrial Revolution opened up so many jobs for people and perhaps this even lead to harsher working conditions. I also agree with you that the revolution made a change in the way that we transported good with the addition of the railroad system. However, there is one thing that you said in your comment that I did not realize previously. I didn't realize that the Industrial Revolution caused the displacement of natives in countries such as Africa, China, and India. This is a completely true statement and I am glad that I realize this now.

The Industrial Revolution was undeniably one of the most significant events in history. It brought about great technological developments, and caused political, economic, and social changes. Inventions such as the spinning jenny and the Rocket locomotive revolutionized industries and infrastructure, and paved the way for future advances in technology. The Industrial Revolution also created harsh conditions for workers, which in turn led to the formation of labor unions.

@James: I completely agree. The industrial revolution involved significant advances in transportation that facilitated trade and global connections.

Although we consider revolutions to be extremely violent in nature, such as the bloody French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution does indeed qualify as “revolutionary”. According to Spodek, the term “revolution” can be defined as “a fundamental and often rapid change in the way systems operate” (Spodek 478). Therefore, though not nearly as brutal as the revolution led by the Third Estate, the Industrial Revolution certainly altered the many systems; leading to economic, political, as well as social changes. For instance, the incredible invention of the railroad and other methods of transportation created new and possibly simpler ways of delivering goods. Additionally, many products were now being formed more easily (not to mention faster and in greater amounts) in factories. Politics were somehow altered as labor unions and protesters had to be regulated, and more rights were given to citizens as more creative/intelligent minds began to question inequality. As for the social aspects, the many innovations of the Industrial Revolution were overwhelmingly beneficial as daily life became easier, jobs were created in factories, and people gained more rights (for example, the Factory Act of 1843 abolished child labor in Britain). In conclusion, it is clear that the Industrial Revolution was in fact “revolutionary” as it forever altered the way of life that will continue to be improved for centuries to come.

Aaryn, I completely agree with your above response as you mentioned the fact that the Industrial Revolution was “revolutionary” as the many inventions from that era have changed our lives forever. Your assessment is perfect as this one statement has proven the question due to the fact that a revolution does just that: it changes our way of life. For example, the French Revolution changed the way lower classes in France were treated, the American Revolution provided Americans with the ability to embrace freedom, etc. Therefore, I do comply with your response as it accurately explains the reason for this “revolution”.

Priya, your comment about the invention of the camera was very appropriate as this amazing product did in fact contribute to the Industrial Revolution. The camera specifically proves that this revolution was indeed “revolutionary” as this instrument changed the way that we view and remember life/events. If it were not for this device, we would not have footage of the Civil War by Matthew Brady, and would therefore not be able to fully grasp the intensity that lingered on those battlefields. As a result, the Industrial Revolution did alter life and is therefore “revolutionary”.

Responding to Lauren Bacon Pd 4...

I agree with everything that you have said. It is true that the Industrial Revolution was so "revolutionary" because it had lasting political, social, ad economic changes. The railroad did indeed make transportation of goods easier and more productive. I also agree that this Industrial Revolution made life easier. However, it is important to note that it only made life easier for the people that were using the inventions. Life actually became harder as work conditions became poorer for the people that worked in this industries. Also, once again your comment about people gaining rights in completely correct. It seems like we both agree that the Industrial Revolution was indeed "revolutionary" for the changes that it brought about!

@Priya: You are correct in saying that people who worked in the industries had harsh living conditions. However, those conditions were present primarily during the early years of the Industrial Revolution in Britain. Over time, however, conditions improved. New standards of hygiene and food greatly improved the quality of life of the majority of the population.

@Priya: You are correct in saying that people who worked in the industries had harsh living conditions. However, those conditions were present primarily during the early years of the Industrial Revolution in Britain. Over time, conditions improved. New standards of hygiene and food greatly improved the quality of life of the majority of the population.

What was so revolutionary about the industrial revolution is all the technology that was beginning to be massed produced in large quantities. The ability to keep these technological feats continuing because at anytime during that period technology could have completely stopped. Also the riots and strikes did play their own rolls with the factory workers.

The Industral revolution is very revolutionary considereing that it changed the world through technology, transportation, economy, and social effects. The Industrial revolution began through advances in the tecnology of producing textiles, and further created a huge impact. New machinery replaced more and more factory workers, perfecting the durability and demand of products. Not only did this revolutionize the way things were made, but it changed the conditions people worked in and overall created a more harsh envirorment. With machines replacing humans, jobs were increasingly difficult to find, and their atmosheres became crude, and malicious. Besides the effect on society, the new appeals for raw materials and trade between countries raised a demand for better transportation, leading to the creation of first canals, then steamboats and steam engines. Societies pace further increased and the worlds trade and econony flourished under the revolutions in the industrial arts and technology. Inventions and the concept of inventing was obtained from the industrial revolution This revolution was not a fight or a war like the recent revolutions had been known for, yet was a revolution in technology advances that efficently moved the world forward and changed living conditions and ways of life.

i think ajay is write about how over time things got better for the workers, but we can't relate those same arguments to todays life. When unions strike today it is often for greed and it cause more harm than good. It often cost people's jobs and destroys families. The same principals of the first unions are lost in todays world.

Kalina
I agree with you response and feel that you are very correct in saying that the factories changed the way the world worked. It lead to demands in production, invention and raw materials overall increasing the economy, the lives of workers, trade and transportation. The Industrial revolution affected people in different ways, making things easier and more efficent, or more difficult and harsh at the same time. Usually those that expiernced the downside where the factory workers. Everything that occured throughout the industrial revolution is what makes it so revolutionary

The Industrial Revolution was so revolutionary because, just like everyone beat me to the point in saying, it changed all the rules.

Not only did it revolutionize the productivity of agriculture with new inventions such as the cotton gin, it brought new transportation and thought processes to the table. No longer were horses the fastest and most efficient way to travel and move goods - the improved steam engine train, at 29 miles per hour, was more powerful and could carry more. Steam engine boats also speed into the picture, altering water transportation as well.

Then, the way of thinking. As inventors created new and wonderful things, it got people thinking. Others felt that they could do it, too. Finally, the common man had a way to fame and fortune. The revolution also created an inventing frenzy, that brought competition into society, further supporting the idea of a free market economy.

Audrey-

I didn't really think about ALL the things that the Industrial Revolution changes completely (you said technology, transportation, economy, and social effects). But after reading your post, it makes sense! I specifically like how you mentioned society's pace quickening as the economy and everything flourished. Good insights!

The Industrial Revolution represented a complete change not only in technology but in ideology. Those involved in this shift began to think of manufacturing goods much more as a massive enterprise and less as a personal, one-by-one construction. A massive migration into larger cities from remote farming settlements occurred, causing more collaboration and sharing of ideas between all kinds of people. The whole word of mass-production and factory working was established, a method by which nearly everything today is produced. From this came such innovations as worker's unions, modernizing business and symbolizing its growing importance in the world as a whole. Trade was revolutionized and made much more efficient with inventions such as the steamboat and railroad. Everything in the modern world was streamlined, making possible all industry in the world today.

The Industrial Revolution was so revolutionary because it changed the dynamic ability of The United States, England and all of Europe. It wasn't just the arrival of new technologies, but it was also the factories and productivity that enhanced the standard of living. Things such as the factories brought hard conditions on the workers. But as stated in the book, the Industrial Revolution didn't just revolutionize things such as machinery, it went beyond to the locations of the workplace, which was people revolving around the cities. The Revolution did not have one specific ideal that was revolutionary. It varied among the relationships among nations, wars, as well as transforming the societies like England the United States and Europe to their roots.
Also stated by everyone else, it brought new inventions into civilization like transportation, advancements on original creations, and steam boats. The Revolution brought, easier, and more harsh ways of living as different affects among people.

Hadley -
I love that you mentioned that "the common man had a way to fame and fortune" with the ushering in of these new ideas. In a way, this is the beginning of the American Promise. As ideology evolved, people came more to the conclusion that they should be able to rise in class based solely on their contributions. Business gave people a way to accomplish this goal. Countries who went through the Industrial Revolution began to be much more of the mind that a person would be judged by their merit rather than their cultural or economic beginnings. This way, anyone with a useful innovation could make something useful and reap the benefits, making for a much more personally driven economy.

Aaryn,
I agree with your statement that the Industrial Revolution is an effect on how we live today. Because it is still felt enormously in todays society all around the world. But I have to add theres was a lot of less labor but there was also a difficulty looking for labor because there was more machinery doing the work for the workers, resulting in the replacement of them, making life more harsh.

Aaryn,
I agree with your statement that the Industrial Revolution is an effect on how we live today. Because it is still felt enormously in todays society all around the world. But I have to add theres was a lot of less labor but there was also a difficulty looking for labor because there was more machinery doing the work for the workers, resulting in the replacement of them, making life more harsh.

@ Aaryn
I like how you said "the industrial revolution was the beggining of the snowball effect that has made so much technology available today." This is completely true, a few huge inventions were made and got better and better and more advanced, but some of it is the same general idea from back then that we have today, such as railroads. They have the same basic idea as they did back then such as long transportation, but they have become more advanced.

The Industrial Revolution is considered revolutionary because it lead to many economic, political, and social changes. The arrival of factories and creation of textiles made a huge impact, just as the use of the railroad and steam engines changed trade and transportation. These methods simplified the trading process, and allowed goods to be traded farther and more efficiently. The Industrial Revolution led to political changes as workers started to unionize, and intelligent people began fighting for their rights. It also revolutionized the production and effectiveness of agriculture, with inventions such as the cotton gin. This revolution did not include violence like most of the revolutions of the past, but instead was an advance in technology that changed the lifestyles and conditions that efficiently move the world into what it is today.

Sean,
I liked the way you mentioned the change in ideology that the Industrial Revolution brought. As people began to notice changes in other countries, they realized they could also have those same rights. They wanted to have the opportunity to rise among classes based solely on their merit and contributions, instead of their family background or the economic class that they were born into. This led to specialized jobs, and a more efficient economy.

@ Garrett

Well I agree with your statement because yes, the Industrial revolution could have sparked the cold war. Also through that occurrence we were able to jump far ahead technologically then most surrounding countries. To me, if we had not tried to conform Russia into a state of government like us, life today may be fairly different. But also putting all that effort into being the first, helped us to become a "one-step ahead" society.

Priya,
I completely agree. All of the inventions and new technologies are what made the industrial revolution so revolutionary. I like the fact about the Kodak too.

As many people have said, the Industrial Revolution was very revolutionary, just not in the same manner as most other revolutions. This revolution was not outrageously violent but it still considered a revolution. It caused all sorts of things to change from rules to how people lived their daily lives. Machines started replacing work humans did and this made productivity was much faster. New inventions were being created all the time and the way people lived and worked was changing quickly and drastically. The Industrial Revolution changed the world in a different manner than any other revolution; it offered new ideas that are the basis for machines and transportation we use today.

Hadley,

As Sean said, I liked how you mentioned normal people now had a way to become famous, make tons of money, and even change the world. The competition this brought advanced technology and as you said, led to the idea of a free market economy.

The Industrial Revolution was different from many other revolutions because of how it progressed, but it was still a major revolution. It revolutionized the working industry, and it changed how we transported our goods. Revolutions do not have to be bloody, violent, or even have fighting in it, it just has to bring change to whatever is in it's wake, and this revolution did do that.

Garret, ALL of history is connected. Everything that ever happened in some way affects future events, pointing out one particular chain segment is no relevant.

Lauren,
You're completely right! Revolutions do not need to be bloody in order to be revolutions. I like how you pointed that out. A revolution can be revolutionary without violence because a revolution is just people wanting change, so it does not have to inlude brutal battles like the French Revolution.

Mariha,
You make a great point about how the industrial revolution is an ongoing thing. It really has not stopped since it began. New technologies are always being invented, like new versions of the iPod. Also because now is exactly like how it was during the Industrisl Revolution as Mr. Waddell said. China is producing so much stuff other countries dont even bother. During the revolution, this was England.

Alyssa Y. -
I completely agree with your entire explanation of the conditions and implications of the Industrial Revolution. Your mention of the radical shift in the importance and efficiency of trade was a critical part of this event and an example of the evolution of the world economy. This kind of giant, sweeping change could not have come about without such a revolution, either. The steam engine, railroads, steam boats, and other innovations in transportation propelled the trade industry to new heights. This allowed exchange of ideas and products on a scale never before imagined by any in business.
I also loved your definition of the revolution as bloodless and without violence, essentially, "an advance in technology that changed the lifestyles and conditions that efficiently move the world into what it is today." This is a very key point, because it highlights the fact that, without the Industrial Revolution, all modern enterprise is impossible. This movement redefined the entire world of technological progression and economic success, making possible the competitive, business-driven world in which we live today.

The Industrial Revolution was revolutionary because it changed the way everything worked. With the new factories, products were made quicker and easier. Then these products, as a result of the new technologies, were able to be sent across longer distances with the use of railroads and steam ships. Although the factories helped create more products, the conditions were poor, so workers formed unions and went on strike. This caused, as Tommy said, a shift in politics.

Victoria,
You are totally right about how this revolution was completely different from the other revolutions. Instead of fighting and using violence to change their lives, they used technology and their brains to help improve their country. Good job!(:

A revolution is a change in the way people think and live their lives. That is exactly what the Industrial Revolution did. As new inventions were coming out and production increasing people began to change their views. The idea of developing materials quickly and efficiently captured many people and many citizens took advantage of that and profited off of it. It also changed the way people lived. People were migrating into the cities and working in factories. Overall, the Industrial Revolution was revolutionary because it changed the way people lived and the way they went through their lives.

Mariha,
I liked how you said that the Industrial Revolution is an ongoing process. I never really looked at it that way. Countries are still progressing and inventing new things all the time. It seems like everyone's point of view is how we can make life easier and that leads to new advancements and new technology.

The Industrial Revolution was "revolutionary" because it changed things, which is what a revolution really aims for. Productivity was enhanced, transportation of raw materials increased, success was all around the world. Inventions, such as the railway and the steam engines were being cranked out, improving the econonmy. Chemical and electricity were now more involved in everyone's lives. Also, the way people were living changed, as most farmers were either bribed or forced out of their land, that would eventually be grounds of a factory, and ended up homeless or working for a company.

McKinley!
I agree with your whole entire statement. I like how you wrote of people profiting from the new productivity line, which is definitely true. However, I don't think it was just the idea that caused people to go into a frenzy, but the result that came from the ideas. It's also true that people migrated into cities and worked in factories.

The reason that the Industrial Revolution was considered so revolutionary was because of the change, whether bad or good, and new ideas that it brought to society. That is how change works in revolutions; some win and the rest lose. The factory owners and other people on the high end of the social class system won when farmers and factory workers consequently lost. Some technological advancements that greatly changed the society were the many inventions such as the steam boat, the iron-steel conversion, and railroad all greatly impacted the way the society functioned and operated. Those sources of change are what make the Industrial Revolution truly "revolutionary".

@Cindy
Cindy I agree with almost everything with what you are saying about how change made the Industrial revolution "revolutionary". The change you described was a very vital part in shaping the foundation for the industrial revolution. The only thing I am a little confused about that you mentioned is when you said "transportation of raw materials increased". This might have been true on a minor scale but was not a major factor in the revolution. If anything I would think raw material transportation would decrease because Mr.Waddell explained how a company did everything from obtaining the raw materials to making the final product. This would not make it necessary to transport raw materials. However there are a few exceptions and I bet you could still be considered correct. However I don't think this made the Industrial Revolution revolutionary. I still agree with all of your other points though. =D

I think that the biggest aspect of the Industrial Revolution is the way basic ideas of commerce were changed. All of the points being made here about how society and politics were changed are valid, and I don't want to repeat anything. The point I'm trying to make is that the means of production- which are really the only reason society was formed in the first place- became defined by efficiency and not mere numbers. Now machines and unskilled laborers did the work of skilled artisans,and our current idea of the standard, throwaway product was created. It has been said that the biggest effect of the Industrial Revolution was turning the source of power from land to capital, and I would agree with this.

I don't think that the Industrial Revolution is still going on. Inventions and improvements have been made all throughout history, the Industrial Revolution was special because it produced an entirely new method of production. The Industrial Revolution ended when factory machines were commonplace and sweeping changes were not made as rapidly. Our industries are always changing, but they aren't completely changed as rapidly as industries were at that time.

The Cold War wasn'y about us trying to change Russia into a copy of our government, it was about both parties in a power struggle, trying to get the upper hand in the arms race to maintain global security.

The revolutionary aspect of the Industrial Revolution was simply the transition between manual labor and machine labor. Before the revolution, most products were one of a kind, and after the world realized the benefits gained with mass-production.

@ Joshua

So you would not consider the latest developments in technology part of the Industrial Revolution?

Technology is always changing because of the simple introduction of simple machines.

As Moore's law says "the number of transistors that can be placed inexpensively on an integrated circuit has doubled approximately every two year".

it was called the scientific revolution for a reason. it brought about a rapid change in thinking. the industrial revolution not only brought about inventions but it changed the life style, gender roles and interaction between peoples. nor does inventions alone justify the relevance of one revolution over another, neither does the blood shed associated with it. the power of a revolution is judged solely by its speed and degree of change.

okay ill change the pace on these blogs. the industrial revolution was so drasctic a change not because of the technology but how it impacted the people. sure the steam engine was great but so are the recent inventions surfacing, but are we revolutionizing? no. the inventions alone don't decide, the peoples reactions and changes to their life do. inventions now are amazing but it didn't jerk us out of one mind frame and put us into another mindframe. or out of one way of life and into another entirely. without this drastic change in culture there is no revolution.

Alyssa Y.
I really the like the way you pointed out not just the change in industries and products but the political change.

The Industrial Revolution was so revolutionary because it completely changed the way countries produced exports. It happened quickly which allows it to be a revolution. We were able to produce more and in just as good of quality, which allowed us to grow rich and improve our economy. However, we did affect other countries economies because we offered them everything and they did not feel the need to industrialize as quickly, but we did create progress in many places. This is why the industrial revolution is so revolutionary.

Cindy,

I totally agree with you about the changes brought to society and the economy. Many farmers were forced to give up their lands in order for factories to expand. Also, other technologies like the telegraph and railroads helped expand communication. Good thoughts.

I agree with Marcus's opinion with the steam engine and how it was a help to the revolution but I also believe that the spinning jenny was also a help in the revolution and how it was created to out show India and their import of cotton. But not only did thee life of the people change like marcus said, but it was also the technology.

The Industrial revolution brought innovation to an already evolutionized workforce.It is considered revolutionary becuase it opens up vast opprotunities to then and now urbanized cultures. Due to the Industrial era, communications and trade networks are strengthened through simplicities as the railroad or even the magnificent steam boat as it is all hieghtened in Britain.Through all these new inventions in process and progress, labor unions are established not only simpliffying our lifestyle but coming up with job occupations while at it to produce goods for all. The Industrial Revolution is a perfect example of an "upgrade" for the world and its inhabitants.

@rachel
The Industrial Revolution has indeed done its dew in shaping the world into what it is today.Your posts reminded me that countries surrounding Britain felt, it was unnecessary to keep up with the English's production rates therefore affecting their economy.

@Elisa
I wouldn't say that there was absolutely no bloodshed during the industrial revolutions as children got hurt or killed working for the very factorys that were developed.The foundation that was merely cotton and iron did make its dew during this era as it was the key materials needed for this revolution to take route.Your comparison between the scientific and industrial revolution is innacurate becuase there were inventions produced in the scientific revolution such as the telescope.

Victoria-

I like how you clearly state that productivity went up due to the new machines, and that the Industrial Revolution laid the foundation for our society today. I didn't really think of how closely modern America is tied to this revolution; our entire way of life is centered around the opportunities that were created then. Good thinking!

Deric, Though the industrial revolution was a big upgrade for alot of people, it was a bad things for many people like factory workers and farmers and etc...

Clint, You are very right when you say that a revolution is a revolution due to change, wether that change was good or bad, kinda like the french revolution, many people were gettign killed, but that was still change.

Hadley,
I like how you said that the Industrial Revolution brought new thought processes as well. I didn’t really think about the fact that it changed the way everyone thought, but you’re totally right. Now anyone with a good idea was able to make money and be recognized, as you said.

Rachel
You are right in saying that the industrial revolution helped us significantly in exporting goods, however that is not the only thing that it did, so it would be wise to not focus on that. It did help in transportation of goods, transportation of poeple, efficiency of making goods, and many other things. It is not fair to just say that it helped with transportation.

Stephanie,

I like how you mentioned how technological advances like railroads and steam boats helped because they made transporting things easier and faster. Also, you are totally right when you say the poor conditions in the factories led to unions which in turn, led to a shift in politics.

@ Maddie,
yes it was big for technology but it was also big on location because a lot of people had to live in the cities where it was really rough like you said about the factories.

sorry that last one was from me

Okay well now that I have more information cool. First off, there was no intentional blood shed. No one purposely trying to make anyone die or bleed to death? This does make it different from many of the others. Marcus, although yes we do continue to make new inventions everyday, the Industrial Revolution is different because now we make machines and inventions that are simply more complex versions of what has already been made. We discussed this in class. This revolution introduced machinery and new ways toward efficiency. Something that had not been done necassarily to the same degree as this time. I agree that culturally many changes were made due to the Revolution, which definitely plays a part. However, our immigration in and out of cities changes all the time. During that time life became more urbanized but later, for example, in the U.S. poeple began to move to rural areas again like suburbs. That didn't make it a revolution. My point is both have to coincide. Culture and invention. That's what made it so revolutionary. I feel like I forgot something but that's all I can think of right now.

The Industrial Revolution was the rise of modern life (which is pretty revolutionary). Factories were created (specifically textiles first). Although working conditions were appalling, many people worked there. Life started moving away from home-made to manufactured. MANY inventions were made, including trains and steamboats to transport all of the factory-made goods.

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