1. Shift from Agrarian to Industrial Economy:
Before the Industrial Revolution, most people lived in rural areas and relied on agriculture for sustenance. However, with the advent of industrialization, there was a shift from an agrarian to an industrial economy. This meant that many people moved from rural areas to urban centers to work in factories and industries.
2. Rise of Factories:
The development of factories during the Industrial Revolution led to the concentration of workers in large-scale production facilities. These factories employed specialized workers who performed specific tasks in the manufacturing process, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity.
3. Division of Labor:
Adam Smith's concept of the division of labor became prominent during the Industrial Revolution. It involved breaking down complex tasks into simpler ones, allowing workers to specialize in particular processes. This specialization increased productivity and efficiency in manufacturing.
4. Urbanization:
As factories were established in cities, there was a substantial migration of people from rural areas to urban centers. This rapid urbanization led to the growth of large cities and the emergence of urban areas as hubs of economic activity.
5. Growth of Industrial Jobs:
The expansion of factories and industries created numerous job opportunities. People found employment in various sectors such as textile mills, iron and steelworks, coal mining, and transportation.
6. Decline of Traditional Crafts:
The rise of mechanized production in factories led to a decline in traditional crafts and artisanal work. Many skilled artisans lost their livelihoods as their products were replaced by machine-made goods.
7. Social and Economic Impact:
The Industrial Revolution had a profound impact on society and the economy. It led to increased wealth and economic prosperity for some, but also resulted in challenging working conditions, low wages, and social inequality for many workers.
8. Emergence of the Working Class:
The concentration of workers in factories gave rise to the concept of the working class, which comprised individuals who earned their living through manual labor in industrial settings.
Overall, the Industrial Revolution transformed the way people earned their living by shifting from agriculture to industry and creating new employment opportunities in factories and urban areas. It also brought about significant social, economic, and technological changes that shaped the modern world.