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How Did The Industrial Revolution Change The World

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The Industrial Revolution changed the world in many ways. Prior to this time in history, most consumables were made by hand or involved some form of manual labor. Prior to the late 1700’s, very few manufacturing technologies existed that could assist in the production of products for the general public’s consumption. The development of new technologies involving machinery and the ability to efficiently power these machines, drastically changed the way that people around the world worked and lived.

During the late 18th century, new technologies in mechanization, chemical production, and agricultural practices experienced major advancements. The use of fluid and steam power lead to more efficient machinery that paved the way for the mass production of consumable products. This also led to the advent of the modern industrial factory system. These factories needed to employ laborers to operate and …show more content…

Manufacturing practices often introduced pollutants into the environment. By products from the burning of coal that powered the steam engines created what is now known as “Acid Rain”. Chemicals used in various manufacturing process were often dumped into the water system without regard to future consequences. Deforestation also became a problem due to the new and inventive ways of harvesting lumber that was needed to support the growing communities and industries.

Effects of this new era were not limited to adults. It was not uncommon for children to be pressed into labor in these large factories. Many suffered debilitating injuries or death at the expense of the newly invented manufacturing practices. Until the 1940’s, when Child Labor laws were introduced, children as young as 10 or younger, were often found working in conditions that were often very

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