Agricultural Revolution

Agricultural Revolution

The Agricultural Revolution refers to a period of significant agricultural development marked by new farming techniques and inventions that led to a massive increase in food production. This transformation began in the 18th century and continued into the 19th century, laying the groundwork for the Industrial Revolution.

Historical Context

The Agricultural Revolution took place in Great Britain and was a precursor to the Industrial Revolution. It was characterized by a shift from traditional farming methods to more productive and efficient techniques. This period saw the introduction of new crops, the improvement of soil fertility, and the development of new tools and machinery.

Key Innovations

Crop Rotation

One of the most significant innovations was the development of the four-field crop rotation system. This system, popularized by Charles Townshend, involved rotating different crops such as wheat, barley, turnips, and clover. This method improved soil fertility and increased crop yields.

Enclosure Movement

The Enclosure Movement was another critical aspect of the Agricultural Revolution. It involved consolidating small landholdings into larger farms, which were then enclosed with fences or hedges. This allowed for more efficient farming and increased productivity.

Mechanization

The introduction of machinery, such as the seed drill invented by Jethro Tull, revolutionized farming practices. The seed drill allowed for the efficient planting of seeds in neat rows, which improved germination rates and crop yields.

Impact on Society

The Agricultural Revolution had profound effects on society. It led to an increase in food production, which supported population growth and urbanization. As fewer people were needed to work on farms, many moved to cities in search of work, fueling the growth of the industrial workforce.

Long-term Effects

The changes brought about by the Agricultural Revolution set the stage for the Industrial Revolution, as increased food production supported a growing population and freed up labor for industrial work. It also led to changes in land ownership and rural society, with many small farmers losing their land and becoming wage laborers.

See Also

• Industrial Revolution
• Enclosure Movement
• Jethro Tull (agriculturist)
• Crop rotation

References

• Overton, Mark. Agricultural Revolution in England: The Transformation of the Agrarian Economy 1500–1850. Cambridge University Press, 1996.
• Allen, Robert C. The British Industrial Revolution in Global Perspective. Cambridge University Press, 2009.