Dawn of the Industrial Age Causes of the Industrial Revolution

A Portrait of Life in 1750 Most people were peasant farmers who worked the land with hand tools. They knew very little of the world outside their towns. They could not read or write, and therefore had no education. All goods were produced at home (clothing, food, etc.)

A New Agricultural Revolution Improved methods of farming The Dutch separated the land from the sea and made fields larger. British farmers improved on this new technology. British Enclosure Movement Enclosing small portions of land to create large fields Many small farmers lost their jobs and moved to cities.

The Population Explosion European population rose from 120 to 190 million in less than a century Reasons for the explosion: Decreasing death rate More food, less disease Better hygiene and sanitation Improved medical care

An Energy Revolution In earlier times, people relied on the strength of their own bodies for work. Water power became the standard during the late 18th and 19th centuries. New sources of energy became available, such as coal. 1712: Thomas Newcomen developed the very first steam engine (would be improved later by James Watt)

Review Questions 1.) What factors contributed to the agricultural revolution? 2.) Why did populations soar in Europe? 3.) What energy sources powered the Industrial Revolution?