Introduction

The Industrial Revolution began in Great Britain because Britain had a foreign and home demand for manufactured goods, agricultural improvements, a large free-trade area, good transportation, and a fairly advanced banking system.  It began in the textile industry when textiles were in high demand.  New machines were invented to keep up with this high demand.  Consequently, some of the first factories were created. Then there was an energy crisis which made room for Watts' new steam engine.  Instead of using wood like in the past, people made use of the abundance of coal available.  With the invention of the steam engine, came the railroad.  New jobs were created but this also led to separation in gender.  The spread of the Industrial Revolution throughout the rest of Europe occurred because of the railroad.  the Industrial Revolution affected women differently than men.  Women were given low-paying and dead-end jobs or they became homemakers.  Child labor became a problem and as a result the Factory Act of 1833 was created.  Poor working conditions continued so labor unions began to form. 

Chapter Objective: explain the effects of the Industrial Revolution on peoples lives and traditional industry.
Essential Question: What is the significance of the Crystal Palace?

The Crystal Palace was built out of cheap iron and glass from the industrial age.  In 1851 the Great Exhibition took place here.  Millions of people visisted the exhibition, most of whom traveled on the newly built railroad.  Companies from around the world displayed new inventions, hoping to win a prize awarded by a jury.