Economic Growth

I. Industrial Revolution Hits Begins in the mid-1700’s, England. People start moving to the cities.

II. New England NE has perfect geography for Industrial revolution. A. poor soil B. rushing rivers C. good ports

III. Factors that encourage industrial growth: 1. Geography 2. Capitalism/Free Enterprise (individuals put $ into business to make a profit) 3. Technology a. A. Eli Whitney, cotton gin b. B. Patent

IV. Industrial Revolution Moves to U.S. 1.GB wanted to keep new technology a secret. 2.Samuel Slater memorized machine design and moved to U.S.

V. More Advances A. Factory System 1814, Francis Cabot Lowell put different technology together. All stages of cloth making under one roof made the process more efficient.

B.Eli Whitney begins use of Interchangeable Parts. 1. One part can be replaced instead of whole machine.

Hardships of Industrial Life

Urbanization People start moving rapidly to the cities for jobs. Crowded cities have problems. –Disease, poor sanitation –Crime –Fire

Factory System Factory was the heart of the city. Work was very different from the farm. –Rigid schedule –Long hours (12-16), no sick days –Dangerous conditions No safety devices Dirty air

Women and Children A.Many employers preferred women workers 1. Easier to manage 2. Lower pay

B. Child labor was also common 1. worked on farms 2. had smaller fingers and bodies 3. Their wages were needed to support families 4. Paid lower wages 5. Worked long hours…could not go to school