The Industrial Revolution started in Britain towards the end of the 18th century and subsequently to other regions. Where machines were used, this increased production and led to industries. This transformation defined the nature of work and life systems, which had a long term impact on social and economic systems across the globe.
The change of farming economies to industrial ones was one significant consequence. Individuals emigrated in large numbers to urban centers to find jobs in factories. This led to the rapid process of urbanization, and the traditional farming society was eroded. Shortly after, industrial employment was the main income source to significant segments of the population.
The development of factories also divided people socially. An enlightened mass class grew up, striving through its hard work and wretched working, and the business proprietors benefited in wealth and power. It further segregated the rich and the poor and reformed the industrial society class structure.
World trade continued to increase as more products were produced by industrial nations. Nations depended upon others as the source of raw materials and markets. Exchange of resources was provided by colonies, and finished products were embraced in industrial countries. This trade was wide in extent and established some economic imbalance between the developed and the less-developed areas.
In the long run, reforms solved problems of industrialization. Labor movements demanded the increase of salaries, shortening of working days, and better working conditions. Labor laws were instituted by the governments, and the social amenities such as education, and healthcare were enhanced. These changes stabilised societies to adapt to the life of factories and contributed to slow increase in the quality of life.
Conclusion
The Industrial Revolution transformed social and economic systems of the world. It spawned production and commerce, formed new types of classes and spawned inequalities. These issues were decreased with reforms later, but the Industrial Revolution was also one of the major turning points in constructing modern societies.
