First Industrial Revolution 118th2

Apuntes

First Industrial Revolution (18th) •Great divergence: Why the west? The Industrial Revolution began in the West during the 18th century, specifically in England. •Why in the West? Earlier explanations point to Western exceptionalism, technological changes, and the rejection of political absolutism by Britain and the Dutch Republic. The scientific revolution, Enlightenment, and its religious context also played roles. Mercantilist and imperialist policies helped create a global trade network—routes established by the Portuguese to China, Spain’s Manila galleons, and others—facilitating expansion. •England’s overseas commercial networks By the end of the Middle Ages, England developed extensive overseas trade, bringing back: - English goods, including wool cloth - New products like spices, sugar, coffee, ceramics, and metals - Cotton textiles from India, which became highly popular in Britain As cotton’s popularity grew, Asia restricted its imports into Britain, prompting Britain to produce cotton goods domestically, marking the start of its cotton industry. •First Industrial Revolution: Key Factors and Characteristics - Population growth: Improved living s...