The Industrial Revolution: History, Documents, and Key Questions

Through this book's roughly 50 reference entries, readers will gain a better appreciation of what life during the Industrial Revolution was like and see how the United States and Europe rapidly changed as societies transitioned from an agrarian economy to one based on machines and mass production.

• Provides entries on a wide range of ideas, individuals, events, places, movements, organizations, and objects and artifacts of the Industrial Revolution that allow readers to better grasp the lasting significance of the period

• Offers a historical overview essay that presents a narrative summary of the causes of the Industrial Revolution and a timeline of the most important events related to the Industrial Revolution

• Includes primary sources—each introduced by a headnote—that supply contemporary perspectives on vital elements of social history, especially the actions and conditions of laborers during the Industrial Revolution, providing insights into people's actions and motivations during this time of transition