Second Industrial Revolution

Definition

The Second Industrial Revolution, also known as the Technological Revolution, was a period of rapid industrial development from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, characterized by advancements in technology, energy, and manufacturing processes. This era saw the rise of electricity, the internal combustion engine, and innovations such as steel production and chemical processes, which transformed industries and led to the growth of factories and mass production systems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Second Industrial Revolution marked a shift from steam power to electricity as a primary energy source for factories, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.
2. Innovations such as the assembly line, pioneered by figures like Henry Ford, drastically reduced production time and costs, making goods more affordable for consumers.
3. This period saw significant advancements in transportation, including the expansion of railroads and the advent of automobiles, which reshaped both industry and society.
4. Chemical processes developed during this time enabled the production of synthetic materials like plastics and dyes, further expanding manufacturing capabilities.
5. The rise of large factories during the Second Industrial Revolution concentrated labor in urban areas, fueling rapid urbanization and changing social dynamics in many regions.

Review Questions

• How did advancements in technology during the Second Industrial Revolution contribute to the growth of the factory system?
  • Advancements in technology during the Second Industrial Revolution were pivotal in fostering the growth of the factory system. Innovations such as the internal combustion engine and electricity allowed factories to operate machinery more efficiently and on a larger scale. Additionally, the introduction of assembly lines streamlined production processes, enabling factories to produce goods at unprecedented rates. This shift not only increased output but also transformed labor practices and urban development.
• In what ways did mass production techniques introduced during the Second Industrial Revolution impact consumer behavior?
  • Mass production techniques revolutionized consumer behavior by making goods more accessible and affordable. As factories adopted assembly line methods, production costs decreased significantly, allowing for lower prices on everyday items. This led to a surge in consumer demand for products that were previously considered luxuries. The ability to produce standardized goods also encouraged a culture of consumption, with people increasingly buying items based on availability rather than necessity.
• Evaluate the social implications of factory growth during the Second Industrial Revolution on urban communities.
  • The growth of factories during the Second Industrial Revolution had profound social implications for urban communities. As factories centralized labor in cities, there was a massive influx of workers seeking jobs, leading to rapid urbanization. While this created economic opportunities for many, it also resulted in overcrowded living conditions and strained infrastructure. Furthermore, working-class neighborhoods often faced poor sanitary conditions and limited access to healthcare. These changes contributed to social tensions and movements advocating for labor rights and improved living standards.

Related terms

Mass Production: The process of producing large quantities of goods efficiently and at a lower cost, typically using assembly lines and mechanization.

Electricity: A form of energy resulting from the existence of charged particles, which became a key power source during the Second Industrial Revolution, enabling factories to operate machinery more efficiently.

Steel Production: The process of creating steel, a stronger and more versatile material than iron, which played a crucial role in construction and manufacturing during the Second Industrial Revolution.