The Industrial Revolution in the Eighteenth Century: An outline of the beginnings of the modern factory system in England

by Paul Mantoux

This classic volume, first published in 1928, is a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of the Industrial Revolution. Arranged in three distinct parts, it covers:

* Preparatory Changes
* Inventions and Factories
* The Immediate Consequences.

A valuable reference, it is, as Professor T. S. Ashton says in his preface to this work, 'in both its architecture and detail this volume is by far the best introduction to the subject in any language... one of a few works on economic history that can justly be spoken of as classics'.

Genres: History

548 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 1983

Reviews

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written by a French historian, this is the most cogent history of the start of the industrial revolution that I know of. It explains very clearly and precisely the levers that moved English industry from hand-spun and hand-woven wool to machine spinning and machine weaving, and it is really very interesting. Then it moves on to coal mining and steam engines. A very pleasing history.

Come for the steam engine and the shuttlecock, stay for the enclosure movement, by which private property was allowed to take over communal property in a movement that turned the world on its head, brought about the destruction of the old classes and the old ethics to be replaced (eventually) by new pragmatic ethics, egotistical CEOs and, eventually, when the whole system is about to self-destruct, our robot overlords.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book I have read on the industrial revolution. Shows how changes in land tenancy and development of canals and roads helped create a dynamic market society in which technological changes were both stimulated and rewarded. Good explanation of the key technologies.