The economic, social, and political consequences of the Industrial Revolution in Great Britain (Essay Sample)

Student’s Name Professor’s Name Course Date The economic, social, and political consequences of the Industrial Revolution in Great Britain Numerous turning points in history have significantly impacted the various aspects of life. Such phenomena set the stage for various changes and continuities over time in different parts of the world. The industrial revolution had monumental consequences in Great Britain, transforming the region socially, economically, and politically (Stearns 8). Overall, the most significant consequences of the industrial revolution in Great Britain were urbanization, the rise of capitalism, materialism, and consumerism, and a shift in the role of women, which enabled them to take part in government and leadership. Urbanization was one of the industrial revolution's defining and enduring social impacts on Great Britain. In pre-industrial society, more than 75% of the citizens of Great Britain were in rural regions. As people migrated from rural areas, small towns started developing into large cities. According to Mantoux, by 1860, the majority of Great Britain’s population lived in cities compared to rural areas (13). For instance, the industrial revolution saw the population of the city of London grow by about three million within a period of four decades. What is more, the small town of Manchester also developed both rapidly and famously, becoming the quintessential industrial city. Prompted by the industrial revolution, urbanization served to stimulate the presently booming industries by concentrating factories and workers together. The most significant economic consequence of the industrial revolution in Great Britain was the emergence of capitalism, materialism, and consumerism. With the rise in technological innovations and political control over the colonies, capitalism was on the rise in Great Britain (Stearns 14). Factory owners as well as those who controlled the means of production, quickly became wealthy and had more money to invest in more industries. With the rise of industries, more goods and services could be produced and offered, leading to the economic development of Great Britain (Stearns 15). As production continued increasing, it necessitated a proportional increase in demand. Based on the basic human aspiration to have more, a cycle of more production and more consumption was created, leading to the rise of consumerism and materialism. The primary political fallout of the industrial revolution in Great Britain was the drastic change in the role of women, which saw them participate in government. Due to the industrial revolution, women started getting jobs in the growing cities (Pinchbeck 34). Moreover, they became secretaries, teachers, nurses, and sales associates, among other lucrative careers. Consequently, women developed a more robust sense of self-importance, leading to the rise of the Suffrage movement, which enabled them to champion their constitutional right to vote. As such, women beca...