Industialisation Flashcards
What does Edward Royle say about the extent of British industrialisation by 1800?
It would be wrong to imply most industry was based in factories and large workshops. Much industry, including larger scale industry, was still based in the countryside. Major changes did not occur until the application of steam power in the 19th century
Define entrepreneur
A person who undertakes an enterprise, often involving financial risk
Define industrial revolution
A rapid development in industry which took place in Britain in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The phrase was coined by economic historian Arnold Toynbee in his ‘lectures on the industrial revolution in England’, published in 1884
Why do some historians disagree with the term ‘industrial revolution’?
They believe the change was more gradual than revolutionary.
What does historian Ronald Hartwell say about industrialisation?
1760-1830 is regarded as the most acceptable revolutionary period, with 1780 marking the beginning of a sharp upward movement in industrial production.
What happened in the 1780s and 90s that marked a sharp increase in economic activity?
There was a sharp rise in both imports and exports
Which economic statistics suggests that the 1780s in particular may have been a turning point?
The annual growth of industrial output increased to 3-4% from the long-term national average of 2%
What was Britain renowned for before the industrial revolution?
The variety and quality of its manufacturing industries
Give some examples of Britain’s pre-industrial manufacturing industries and where they were based
- Small metal goods from Birmingham
- Woollen cloth from Yorkshire
- Tin was mined in Cornwall and used for the manufacture of many utensils
- There were printing works, breweries, glass-making and leather-curing.
Where was the biggest market for these manufacturing goods and why?
London, because of its ease of access to home and foreign markets through its sea port
What does philosopher David Hume suggests was the spur of industry?
greed
What was the East India Company?
The largest and most influential British tradig company, formed in 1600. It enjoyed a trade monopoly in India and the Far East until the 19th century and large parts of India came under its political control
What is a census?
An official count or survey, especially of a population
Describe the different preconditions for economic growth in Britain at this time
- Shipbuilding, expolration and the discovery of new overseas markets and colonies had brought a growth in trade and this, in turn, had stimulated the development of banking and finance
- Because of the thriving markets, there was capital available to borrow at low interest rates, which could be invested in the expansion of existing industries and to set up new indusries
- The increased population meant there was a larger labour force available
- The larger population led to increased demand for food, clothing, housing and other commodities
- Political stability allowed more enlightened ideas to flourish
- Scientific thought encouraged invention and innovation
- Because Britain was a relatively liberal and democratic society, people were free to move themselves and goods around the country, meaning there was little hindrance to new ventures
Describe Arthur Young
Best known as an agricultural reformer, but was also a political and social observer, writer and traveller. As he travelled round England, he formed the opinion that the population was rising, and made interesting observations on the signs of industrialisation. He was also an improving farmer, although not financially successful
