key term - 1750 to 1900

Definition

The period from 1750 to 1900 marks a significant era in global history characterized by rapid industrialization, technological advancements, and profound social and economic transformations. This era saw the expansion of industrial economies, the rise of new social classes, and sweeping changes in political thought and organization, which collectively reshaped societies across the globe.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Industrial Revolution began in Britain in the late 18th century and spread to other parts of Europe and North America by the mid-19th century.
2. Technological innovations such as the steam engine, spinning jenny, and power loom played crucial roles in increasing productivity during this time.
3. The rise of factories changed the nature of work, leading to a shift from home-based craftsmanship to wage labor in industrial settings.
4. This period also saw significant social changes, including the growth of the middle class and changes in labor dynamics that led to labor movements advocating for workers' rights.
5. Political ideologies such as socialism and liberalism emerged as responses to the challenges posed by industrialization, influencing governance and society.

Review Questions

• How did the Industrial Revolution contribute to social changes between 1750 and 1900?
  • The Industrial Revolution significantly altered social structures during this period by creating new social classes, particularly the industrial working class and the bourgeoisie or middle class. As factories emerged, many people left rural areas for urban centers seeking work, leading to urbanization. This migration brought about shifts in family structures, living conditions, and gender roles as women began to enter the workforce, ultimately challenging traditional societal norms.
• Discuss the impact of technological advancements on economies during the period from 1750 to 1900.
  • Technological advancements during this period transformed economies by enhancing production efficiency and enabling mass production. Innovations like the steam engine revolutionized transportation with railways and steamships, facilitating trade and movement of goods. Additionally, advancements in manufacturing processes allowed for faster production rates and lower costs, which fueled economic growth but also resulted in harsh working conditions for laborers.
• Evaluate how the emergence of new political ideologies shaped societies during 1750 to 1900.
  • The emergence of new political ideologies such as socialism and liberalism had profound effects on societies during this time. Socialism arose as a response to the inequalities produced by capitalism, advocating for collective ownership and workers' rights. Meanwhile, liberalism emphasized individual freedoms and democratic governance. These ideologies not only influenced political movements but also contributed to significant reforms in labor laws, education, and social welfare systems, ultimately leading to a rethinking of government roles in addressing economic disparities.

Related terms

Industrial Revolution:

A major turning point in history that began in the late 18th century, marking the transition from agrarian economies to industrialized and urban ones, with advancements in manufacturing and transportation.

Urbanization:

The process through which cities grow as a result of migration from rural areas, leading to increased population density and significant changes in living conditions.

Capitalism:

An economic system characterized by private ownership of the means of production and operation for profit, which became more prevalent during this period due to industrialization.