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 ...
The Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century and lasted until the early 19th century, was a transformative period in human history. It marked the shift from manual labor to machine-based manufacturing and had a profound impact on economic and social structures. Here are some key tRead more
The Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century and lasted until the early 19th century, was a transformative period in human history. It marked the shift from manual labor to machine-based manufacturing and had a profound impact on economic and social structures. Here are some key technological innovations that drove the Industrial Revolution and their impact:
1. Steam Power (1769): James Watt’s invention of the steam engine revolutionized industry by providing a reliable and efficient source of power. Steam-powered machines enabled mass production, increased productivity, and reduced labor costs.
Impact: Steam power enabled factories to operate around the clock, leading to increased production and economic growth. It also transformed transportation by powering locomotives and ships.
2. Cotton Gin (1793): Eli Whitney’s invention of the cotton gin made it possible to efficiently process cotton, a major cash crop. This led to an explosion in cotton production and trade.
Impact: The cotton gin led to the growth of the textile industry, which became a major driver of the Industrial Revolution. It also created new economic opportunities and transformed the southern United States into a major cotton producer.
3. Spinning Jenny (1764): James Hargreaves’ invention of the spinning jenny enabled simultaneous spinning of multiple spindles of yarn, increasing production and reducing labor costs.
Impact: The spinning jenny revolutionized the textile industry, making it possible to produce large quantities of cloth quickly and cheaply. This led to an increase in textile production and trade, which drove economic growth.
4. Power Looms (1813): Edmund Cartwright’s invention of the power loom enabled weaving on a large scale, further increasing textile production and reducing labor costs.
Impact: Power looms enabled the mass production of cloth, which led to an increase in textile trade and economic growth. They also transformed the textile industry by creating new jobs and industries.
5. Iron and Steel Production (1750s): The development of new iron and steel production techniques enabled mass production of these materials, which were essential for construction and machinery.
Impact: The availability of iron and steel enabled the construction of large-scale factories, canals, and railways, which transformed transportation and communication.
See less
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.
See less