Innovations and Impact of the First Industrial Revolution

The First Industrial Revolution (1760 - 1830)

The First Industrial Revolution was one of the most important achievements in the history of mankind. Manual labor, which had developed over centuries, was replaced by inventions like the steam-powered weaving machine, which made England the first industrial country in the world. In this first revolution, which occurred around the year 1720, the primary driver was James Watt, who perfected the steam engine.

Raw Materials and Commodities

New inorganic materials such as coal and oil were used. Other important raw materials included wood, with which ships were built, and cotton, from which thread was extracted for use on the looms.

Primary Energy Sources

Coal was the energy source used in this phase par excellence, as it was the fuel for the steam engine—the great machine perfected at this stage (1785) by James Watt. Water power and mechanical (man-made) energy were also used to operate the first steam engines.

The Pursuit of Mechanization

The industrial revolutions ensured that production was more rapid and abundant. There was a drive toward mechanization that sought to eliminate manual labor performed by humans through machines that performed the same functions. The most important machine was the steam engine, which influenced transport, manufacturing, and more. Other important machines related to the textile sector included the flying shuttle and the power loom.

Industry and Its Applications

The aim of this stage was to produce on a large scale, though processes were long and expensive. This industry depended on the inventions of the era, with the most developed sectors being steel and textiles.

• Steel: This sector underwent many changes in usage, including puddling and steel fabrication.
• Textiles: This industry suffered significant changes depending on the improvements made to the machines.

Increased production was achieved thanks to the power of the steam engine.

Key Social Actors

The primary actors in this stage were the bourgeoisie and the workers. While the former were wealthy and held high social status, the latter worked 14 hours a day, all week, often handling dangerous machinery and working in deplorable situations. Managers of factories exploited children, though factory laws eventually sought to prevent these events.

Evolution of Business and Companies

During this period, both private and public property emerged. The aim was to obtain greater benefits from cheaper raw materials. At first, company owners were responsible for the means of production, but these small traders eventually joined to form larger companies divided into shares to distribute benefits equally.

Global Expansion and Cultural Impact

Industrialization began in England, extending to Western Europe, the USA, and Japan. At this time, culture was a privilege, and only people with money had the opportunity to be educated.