Rewrite homework

1. Why did the Industrial Revolution start in Britain?

Britain was already experienced in the areas of metallurgy and mining because of their access to coal and iron. This would help give them a head start in the revolution. The individualistic attitude of the population of Britain, as well as the importance placed in understanding the rational aspect of nature gave the people a reason to create machines. The enclosure movement, where wealthy landlords could take land whenever needed, allowed for a mass migration of labor from the countryside to the cities of Britain. Factories now had the labor they needed to ensure productivity, and the perfect conditions for the Industrial Revolution were set.

2. What role did the cotton industry play in the beginnings of the Industrial Revolution?

New technology was introduced into the cotton industry that made it easier for it to be woven and spun. Buildings where these machines could be placed were needed, so more factories were built, and more jobs were created. As newer technology for spinners was invented, technology for weavers raced to catch up, and vice versa. This created competition that would continue to drive industry.

3. How did the development of steam power transform industry in Britain?

It allowed for factories to be built anywhere, whereas before they had to be built near the only reliable power source at the time, water. As steam power was more widely used, industry grew faster. Railroads were built that could transport goods at timely speed, and steam-powered boats were constructed so that bigger payloads could be shipped farther. As a result, weaker people – children and women – could work with these stronger, less demanding machines, and society in Britain was transformed.

4. What is Doctor Kay’s description of the mental and physical health of a worker in a Manchester cotton mill?

The workers become reckless since they work so hard yet they are given so little. They lived and worked in crowded and filthy environments, and they caught diseases easily. The home is only seen as shelter, and meals are prepared and eaten hastily, so that they can get back to making the little money that they do.

5. Kay does not seem to think the employer, the machines, or the society, are responsible for the workers’ misery. What do you think?

I believe that if applied correctly, the machines can be used to benefit society as a whole. The only reason that the people were as miserable as they were was the lack of compassion in the employers and in the government. All the employers care about is making as big a profit as possible, while the government allows this so that the nation’s economy can grow. If regulations were put into place, society would be different, and the workers’ lives would likely become better.