"According to some, this turning point in history is responsible for an increase in population, an increase in the standard of living, and the emergence of the capitalist economy."
The Industrial Revolution is loosely considered to have taken place between the late 18th century and early 19th century, though the technological advancements that define the period began much earlier. During this time, the pace of change appeared to speed up significantly, and technical innovations brought about an array of new tools and machines. As a result, new ways of living, being, and working developed just as rapidly, ultimately ushering much of the world into the modern era. What a time to be alive!
If you lived during the Industrial Revolution, you might be ...
Struggling to make ends meet on your home farm or through a traditional trade/craft that your family has been practicing for generations.
Adapting to a much faster pace of life in a growing industrial city, with new innovations and discoveries around every corner - exciting or overwhelming?
Working a twelve to sixteen-hour day in an unsafe, unsanitary factory, where speed of production is the only objective - no matter how old you are!
Adjusting to changes in domestic and social life. Instead of a domestic system of work where entire families often worked side-by-side in the home, you and/or your loved ones might now have to travel for income and work among strangers, significantly changing family dynamics and community life. How do you relate to others in the midst of all these changes?
Thriving as a factory owner or entrepreneur, enjoying increased economic prosperity and wealth, with domestic servants taking care of your every need!
"The reorganization of daily life wrought by industrialization had effects that weakened the material basis for the institutions of the family and the community. These effects were so lasting that they can still be felt in the present day—even as developed societies have shifted into an era that scholars describe as 'postindustrial.'"