The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on the British Working Class in the 18 th and 19 th centuries

Abstract

The Industrial Revolution was one of the most important events in human history in the eighteenth century. It took its origin in Britain from 1750 to 1850. It occurred when industries as textile and iron witnessed the use of machinery and other sectors as agriculture and transportation became developed due to the use of steam power. Those significant economic changes had transformed Britain from an agricultural economy to an industrial one. Such economic changes were accompanied by significant changes on the social life as well. This study examines the social impact of the Industrial Revolution on the working class people and how they succeeded in achieving their social and political ambitions. This analysis shows that technological advancement was the key mechanism to develop a country yet in regard to fairness and democratic participation of all the parts of the society. This in turn would promote a sense of community and the well being of the society.