Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Context: Introduce the Industrial Revolution in England (late 18th century) and its global impact. Thesis Statement: Assert that the Industrial Revolution was a significant factor in the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India, compounded by various ...
Model Answer Introduction The Industrial Revolution, a transformative process from agrarian economies to machine-based industries, began in England in the 18th century. By the 19th century, other European countries followed suit, but their experiences differed in various ways. These differences wereRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Industrial Revolution, a transformative process from agrarian economies to machine-based industries, began in England in the 18th century. By the 19th century, other European countries followed suit, but their experiences differed in various ways. These differences were shaped by factors such as timing, government involvement, economic structures, access to resources, technological advancements, and social relations.
Timing of Industrialization
England was the first to industrialize, beginning in the late 18th century. Other European countries, such as France and Germany, started industrializing in the 19th century, benefiting from the technological innovations that had already emerged in England. This time lag allowed these countries to adopt and refine existing technologies, enabling a quicker and more efficient industrialization processle of the State
The state’s involvement in industrialization varied significantly. In Germany, for instance, the government played a crucial role by providing financial support and infrastructure development, thus guiding the industrialization process. On the other hand, France and Belgium had more laissez-faire approaches, relying on private enterprises and market dynamics to drive industrial growth .
Eructures and Resources
Countries with pre-existing manufacturing industries, such as Belgium, had a smoother transition into industrialization compared to agricultural economies like France, which had to overcome greater challenges. Additionally, access to vital resources, such as coal and iron ore, was more abundant in England, whereas other countries had to explore alternative strategies or rely on imports .
Social andations
Social and labor conditions also varied. England experienced significant labor unrest early in its industrialization, which led to the formation of labor unions and workers’ rights movements. Later industrializing countries, having observed England’s challenges, implemented labor reforms sooner, which helped mitigate some social tensions .
Conclusion
Althoug principles of industrialization were shared, the experiences of European countries that industrialized after England were shaped by their unique contexts, resulting in distinct paths and outcomes during the 19th century.
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Model Answer Introduction The Industrial Revolution in England significantly contributed to the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India, fundamentally altering the economic landscape of the subcontinent. Introduction of Machine-Made Goods The arrival of machine-made textiles from EnglRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
The Industrial Revolution in England significantly contributed to the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India, fundamentally altering the economic landscape of the subcontinent.
Introduction of Machine-Made Goods
The arrival of machine-made textiles from England drastically reduced production costs, leading to the replacement of traditional Indian handmade goods. By the 1830s, British cotton textiles flooded Indian markets, resulting in the collapse of India’s once-thriving cotton weaving industry. This shift marked a significant setback for local artisans who could not compete with the cheaper, machine-produced alternatives.
Decline in Export of Indian Textiles
India’s textile exports, highly sought after in Europe, plummeted due to the competition from British goods. The collapse of the Bengal Muslin industry, renowned for its fine fabric, exemplifies this decline, as British textiles dominated the market.
Exploitative Trade Policies
British trade policies imposed heavy tariffs on Indian textiles, making it nearly impossible for them to compete globally. Indian cotton textiles faced tariffs as high as 70-80%, while British goods faced no such restrictions, further crippling local industry.
Shift to Raw Material Export
Under British rule, India was transformed into a supplier of raw materials, primarily cotton, for British factories. In the mid-19th century, Indian raw cotton exports increased by over 300%, while local weavers struggled with rising raw material prices.
Technological Disparity
Indian cottage industries, reliant on handlooms, could not compete with advanced British machinery. While British power looms produced textiles rapidly, Indian handlooms remained labor-intensive, rendering local products uncompetitive.
Conclusion
In summary, the Industrial Revolution in England was a primary driver behind the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India, exacerbated by exploitative colonial policies, technological disparities, and changing consumer preferences. As British industries flourished, India’s artisan communities faced devastating socio-economic consequences, leading to widespread impoverishment and the erosion of traditional crafts.
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