Factories Flashcards
What was the significance of factories during the Industrial Revolution?
Factories allowed mass production of goods, increasing efficiency and productivity while reducing reliance on handcrafts.
When did the first textile factories emerge in Britain?
The first textile factories began in the 1760s, powered by water wheels, marking the start of industrial manufacturing.
What role did the steam engine play in factories?
Introduced by James Watt in 1776, the steam engine powered factories, allowing them to be located away from water sources and run continuously.
How did factories change the nature of work?
Factories introduced shift work with long hours, leading to strict routines and a focus on speed and efficiency over craftsmanship.
What were the working conditions like in factories during the Industrial Revolution?
Conditions were often harsh, with long hours, low wages, dangerous machinery, and little regard for workers’ safety or health.
When was the Factory Act of 1833 introduced and what did it do?
The Factory Act of 1833 limited working hours for children and improved conditions in textile factories.
What did factory owners prioritize in the early Industrial Revolution?
Factory owners prioritized increasing production and profits, often at the expense of workers’ well-being and safety.
How did factories contribute to urbanization?
Factories attracted workers to cities, leading to rapid urbanization as people moved from rural areas in search of jobs.
What were “sweatshops” during the Industrial Revolution?
Sweatshops were factories with poor working conditions, long hours, and low wages, often employing women and children in harsh environments.
When did the Factory Acts begin improving working conditions for adults?
The Factory Act of 1847 (also known as the “Ten Hours Act”) limited the working hours for women and young people to 10 hours a day.
How did the introduction of machines in factories affect skilled workers?
Machines replaced skilled labor, leading to a loss of jobs for artisans and craftsmen who once produced goods by hand.
How did the factory system affect family life?
Families were often forced to work long hours in factories, leading to the breakdown of traditional family structures and community life.
