The social and political impact of industrialization – IB History Standard Level Revision

Social Impact of Industrialization

Industrialization significantly influenced the social structure and class system. A new, wealthy middle class or bourgeoisie emerged, whose wealth was based on manufacturing and trade rather than land ownership.
The rural population migrated to urban areas driven by employment opportunities, resulting in rapid urbanisation. This led to the growth of slums and overcrowding in cities.
The factory system created a new class of industrial workers, often living in poor conditions and exposed to unsafe environments. This eventually led to the founding of trade unions and early labour movements.
Improvements in transportation allowed easier mobility and increased social interaction. The railways also facilitated the growth of new towns and cities.
Industrialization led to dramatic changes in everyday life. For instance, the widespread use of artificial light fundamentally altered sleep patterns and work schedules.
New social divisions occurred, especially between the urban-based, industrial middle class and the rural gentry. Traditional craftspeople also suffered as factories produced goods more efficiently, leading to the decline of the old artisan class.

Political Impact of Industrialization

Political systems and ideologies evolved in response to industrialization. The increased wealth produced by industry changed power dynamics, with the bourgeoisie gaining significant political influence.
The conditions of the industrial working class pushed forward demands for political change, leading to greater democratization and the extension of the franchise. Political parties began to represent working-class interests alongside those of the middle and upper classes.
Increases in productivity and global trade made industrialized nations more economically and militarily powerful. This contributed to the growth of nationalism, Nazism and other totalitarian ideologies in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Industrialisation also led to the emergence of socialist and communist ideologies, responding to the harsh conditions of the working class in the emerging capitalist system.
In Britain, the transfer of wealth and power to the new industrial capitalists led to gradual political reforms. The ideology of laissez-faire economics influenced government policy, resulting in a general reduction in state intervention.
On a global scale, industrialised nations sought new markets and raw materials, leading to the imperialism characteristic of the 19th and early 20th centuries.