History · Week 6
Why industry took off, and what changed for workers and cities.
Britain industrialized first because of coal, iron, capital, colonies, and new machines such as the spinning jenny and steam engine.
Factories pulled people into cities. Production rose, but hours were long and child labor was common at first.
Railroads and steamships moved goods and people faster, tying regions into a bigger market.
Reform laws later limited child labor, improved safety, and expanded voting as workers organized.