Turning Points During The Industrial Revolution

Technology and innovation have always been and will be major catalysts behind change or provided a framework for important future developments. Certain technological advancements have allowed for turning points in history that lead to the creation of the modern world. The 20th century allowed for the sudden advancements in technology such as electronics, computers, telecommunications, and so on. The history of technology informs us of how creative individuals acquired knowledge about the world and use it to serve human needs. Some technological advancements that have allowed for turning points in history include the creation of the discovery of the compass, Industrial Revolution, creation of electricity during the second industrial revolution,

It also resulted in grim employment and living conditions for the poor and working classes. An increase in factories caused an increase of jobs which meant a rise in population for certain cities. Europe’s workers dwelled in these rapidly growing cities causing them to become overcrowded and unhealthy. There was also a lack of running water, poor garbage and sewer system, and the spread of disease. Every member of the family including children and women would find work in the factories for low wages working long hours up to twelve hours or more. The effects of the revolution on the working-class families raised widespread concern causing social protests and emigration. An example of protests was in England in the 1810s when jobless craftsmen called Luddities would smash machinery that had caused them to be out of work. Thus, cam the creation of new laws and legislation that advocated for better working conditions, ending child labor, and limiting the workday. Many issues that arose during the Industrial Revolution influenced today’s working environment and

Electricity came along with the second industrial revolution beginning in 1850. New materials such as steel, coal, oil, electricity, and other chemicals and pharmaceuticals became vital for industrial production. It was a period of growth for pre-existing industries and expansions of new ones. From these new-found materials came automobiles, shipbuilding, and railways. Although, electricity introduced by Michael Faraday proved to be the catalyst for the Second Industrial Revolution. Electricity opened people to a whole new world of innovation where prior to the discovery, machines used water and steam. Electricity allowed for more advance forms of communication. For example, the telegraph cable technology created quicker communication means. It led to the creation of the telephone, information could be sent in the matter or seconds rather than days. Nations could be warned of attacks or knowledge that must be shared. Electricity also changed the means of transportation. The steam-powered gunboats allowed for new trade routes and the exchange of goods and services. The railroads also facilitated movements of people and goods to costal ports. Electric streetcars began to replace horse-drawn carriages in European cities. Lastly, electricity also influenced social aspect of living and changed the way people worked and lived. Appliances and devices such irons, stoves, and vacuums as which were