Number of Pages 7

This research paper: This is a 7 page paper discussing the processes which lead to the reason why Britain was the first country in the world to industrialize. In the early 1700s, Britain’s mining, iron and textile industries were largely labour based and much of the country was still agricultural in its lifestyle. During the next century and a half however, Britain became the leading country in the industrial revolution, tripled its population and became the world’s leading producer of manufactured goods. Several elements played key factors in Britain leading the industrial revolution. Firstly, on a national scale, Britain had one of the best developed road and canal systems which enabled them to transport goods efficiently and manufacturers and businessmen were well supported in any upgrading methods they developed. These goods were also easily exported on a global scale by Britain’s expansive naval fleet of ships. Being an island nation provided Britain with certain advantages: firstly, they were separated from the wars on the continent which allowed them to progress industrially without interruption; and, their shipping fleet was maintained for overseas trade and security. Demands in the textile industry lead to machines which increased production in the weaving and spinning sectors. Increased production in the textile industry required further energy sources from water and steam which resulted in steam engine inventions which also proved exceedingly useful in the mining and iron processes. Britain was able to produce a vast amount of manufactured goods which were easily transported and unaffected by the Napoleonic Wars which slowed down industrial progress throughout Europe. The effects of the industrial boom are seen in the population growth at the time which more than tripled to over 21 million largely concentrated in the industrialized cities. Bibliography lists 4 sources.

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