Re: Industrial Revolution

Apart from external problems including urban crowding, insanitation, pollution, and social and order problems, what may have also been (2) problems created by industrialization/urbanization during this time?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Industrial_revolution

In this article, be sure to scroll down and find the table of contents links. Read especially section 3. And be sure to check out the external links and references toward/at the bottom of the webpage.

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During the Industrial Revolution, industrialization and urbanization brought about significant changes in society, economy, and the workforce. In addition to the external problems mentioned, two other challenges that emerged during this period were labor exploitation and inadequate working conditions.

1. Labor Exploitation: One problem created by industrialization was the exploitation of laborers, particularly those working in factories and mines. As industries expanded, the demand for labor increased, and many workers, including men, women, and children, were forced to work long hours in dangerous conditions for very low wages. Factory owners held significant power and often prioritized maximizing profit over the welfare of their workers. This led to the exploitation of laborers, who endured harsh working conditions, little to no job security, and unfair treatment.

To understand the extent of labor exploitation during the Industrial Revolution, you can explore historical accounts, writings of labor activists, and government reports of the time. Investigating primary sources, such as workers' diaries, newspaper articles, and testimonies from laborers, can provide insights into their lived experiences and shed light on the challenges they faced.

2. Inadequate Working Conditions: Another problem arising from industrialization was the inadequate working conditions in factories and other industrial settings. The rapid growth of industries led to overcrowded factories, with workers often packed into small spaces without proper ventilation or safety measures. Machinery and equipment were often poorly maintained, which increased the risk of accidents and injuries. Furthermore, due to the lack of regulations, workers faced dangerous situations without sufficient protection or access to medical care.

To delve deeper into the issue of inadequate working conditions, you can study accounts of workplace accidents, reports from factory inspectors, and investigations conducted by reformers. Exploring historical records and articles on workplace safety and hygiene will offer insights into the challenges faced by workers during the Industrial Revolution.

Understanding these problems requires studying primary and secondary sources from the time, including historical documents, books, journals, and eyewitness accounts. By analyzing various perspectives and sources, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the problems created by industrialization and urbanization during the Industrial Revolution.