Industrialization

Industrialization is the process by which an economy is transformed from primarily agricultural to one based on the manufacturing of goods. Individual manual labor is often replaced by mechanized mass production, and craftsmen are replaced by assembly lines. Characteristics of industrialization include the use of technological innovation to solve problems, increase productivity, and improve quality; the creation of new job opportunities; and the use of new organizational structures and practices.

History

The Industrial Revolution, which took place from the 18th to 19th centuries, was a period during which predominantly agrarian, rural societies in Europe and America became industrial and urban. Prior to the Industrial Revolution, which began in Britain in the late 1700s, manufacturing was often done in people’s homes, using hand tools or basic machines. Industrialization marked a shift to powered, special-purpose machinery, factories and mass production.

Effects of Industrialization

Industrialization has had profound effects on modern society. It has led to increased productivity and wealth, but it has also introduced new problems, including those related to the environment, worker exploitation, and social inequality.

Economic Effects

Industrialization has been the key to modern economic growth and rapidly rising incomes. It is characterized by a shift from an economy where the majority of people work in agriculture to one where the majority work in industry and services.

Social Effects

Industrialization has brought about significant social change, including new types of organizations (like the corporation), new forms of labor (like wage labor), and new centers of life and work (like the city).

Environmental Effects

Industrialization has also led to negative impacts on the environment. Industrial pollution, resource depletion, and climate change are among the most serious environmental problems.

See Also

• Industrial Revolution
• Economic Growth
• Urbanization

Industrialization Resources
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