AP Human Geography

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England

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AP Human Geography

Definition

England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom, located on the island of Great Britain. It played a pivotal role during the Second Agricultural Revolution, which significantly transformed agricultural practices and rural society, leading to increased food production and population growth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The Second Agricultural Revolution in England occurred during the 17th and 18th centuries, marking a shift from subsistence farming to more commercial agriculture.
  2. Innovations such as the seed drill invented by Jethro Tull improved planting efficiency, allowing for greater crop yields.
  3. The rise of the agricultural industry led to urban migration as people moved to cities in search of work in factories, fueling the Industrial Revolution.
  4. Landowners began to adopt new agricultural techniques that increased productivity, which contributed to a surplus of food and a growing population.
  5. The combination of improved farming methods and a more efficient use of land had a lasting impact on social structures, leading to the decline of feudalism in England.

Review Questions

  • How did the Enclosure Movement impact rural society in England during the Second Agricultural Revolution?
    • The Enclosure Movement dramatically transformed rural society in England by consolidating small farms into larger, privately owned plots. This process often displaced peasant farmers who relied on common land for subsistence, forcing many into urban areas in search of work. As a result, while agricultural productivity increased through more efficient farming practices, it also contributed to significant social upheaval and changes in land ownership patterns.
  • Discuss the relationship between agricultural innovations in England and the onset of the Industrial Revolution.
    • Agricultural innovations during the Second Agricultural Revolution laid the groundwork for the Industrial Revolution in England. With improvements like crop rotation and new tools, food production became more efficient, leading to surplus crops. This surplus supported a growing population and provided laborers who migrated to cities for industrial jobs. The increase in food supply also reduced food prices, enhancing economic stability and allowing more resources to be directed towards industrial growth.
  • Evaluate the long-term effects of the Second Agricultural Revolution on England's economy and social structure.
    • The Second Agricultural Revolution had profound long-term effects on England's economy and social structure. It led to increased agricultural efficiency, which contributed to population growth and urbanization as people moved from rural areas to cities. This shift not only facilitated the rise of industrial economies but also changed social hierarchies as a new working class emerged. The decline of feudalism was accelerated as landowners embraced capitalist agricultural practices, reshaping class dynamics and setting the stage for modern economic systems.
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