Second industrial revolution

Definition

The second industrial revolution was a period of rapid industrial growth and technological innovation that occurred from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, characterized by advancements in steel production, electricity, and chemical processes. This phase built upon the first industrial revolution and marked a significant shift in economic practices, leading to increased productivity and the rise of new industries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The second industrial revolution introduced significant advancements in technology, including the widespread use of electricity and the internal combustion engine.
2. The rise of steel production facilitated the construction of skyscrapers, railroads, and bridges, transforming urban landscapes and transportation networks.
3. Chemical innovations led to new products such as synthetic dyes, fertilizers, and explosives, expanding the scope of industries and consumer goods available.
4. The second industrial revolution also saw the growth of large corporations and monopolies, influencing economic structures and labor relations.
5. Global trade expanded as countries adopted new technologies, leading to increased economic interdependence and competition among nations.

Review Questions

• How did technological advancements during the second industrial revolution reshape economic practices?
  • Technological advancements such as electricity and the Bessemer process significantly reshaped economic practices by increasing efficiency and productivity in manufacturing. The ability to produce steel at lower costs enabled large-scale construction projects, while electricity transformed industries with new machinery and methods. This led to a surge in mass production techniques, altering labor dynamics and creating new job opportunities within burgeoning industries.
• Analyze the impact of mass production on society during the second industrial revolution.
  • Mass production had a profound impact on society during the second industrial revolution by making goods more affordable and accessible to the general public. The introduction of assembly lines allowed for faster production rates and standardized products, which reshaped consumer behavior. This shift not only stimulated economic growth but also changed living standards, as people began to purchase items that were once considered luxuries.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of the second industrial revolution on global trade relations.
  • The long-term consequences of the second industrial revolution on global trade relations included increased economic interdependence among nations and the rise of international markets. As countries adopted new technologies and expanded their industries, they sought raw materials from other regions, leading to complex trade networks. This interconnectedness fostered both competition and collaboration among nations, shaping the foundations of modern global trade dynamics.

Related terms

electricity: A form of energy resulting from the flow of electric charge, which became a key driver of industrial progress during the second industrial revolution.

mass production: The manufacturing of large quantities of standardized products, often using assembly lines, which became a hallmark of industries during this period.

Bessemer process: An innovative method for producing steel efficiently and in large quantities, which played a crucial role in the development of modern infrastructure.