Second Industrial Revolution

Definition

The Second Industrial Revolution, occurring roughly between the late 19th century and early 20th century, marked a period of rapid industrial growth and technological advancement. This era is characterized by the expansion of electricity, steel production, and chemical processes, significantly influencing global economic structures and leading to the rise of new industries and transportation systems. The steam engine played a crucial role in this revolution, driving innovations and applications that reshaped industries and transformed societies worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Second Industrial Revolution introduced significant technological innovations like the internal combustion engine, which led to the development of automobiles and airplanes.
2. This period saw the rise of major corporations and industrial magnates, which transformed business practices and capital investment strategies.
3. Transportation networks expanded greatly with the proliferation of railroads and steamships, facilitating global trade and communication.
4. Urbanization accelerated as people moved to cities for factory jobs, leading to changes in social structures and the rise of labor movements.
5. The Second Industrial Revolution also spurred advancements in science and technology, including breakthroughs in medicine and communication, such as the telegraph and telephone.

Review Questions

• How did advancements in technology during the Second Industrial Revolution influence global industrialization?
  • Advancements in technology during the Second Industrial Revolution, such as electricity and mass production techniques, significantly influenced global industrialization by enabling factories to operate more efficiently. Innovations like the assembly line revolutionized production processes, allowing for faster manufacturing and lower costs. This not only increased productivity but also led to a shift in labor dynamics as more workers were needed to support these growing industries.
• Evaluate the impact of steam engine applications on transportation during the Second Industrial Revolution.
  • The steam engine had a transformative impact on transportation during the Second Industrial Revolution by powering locomotives and steamships. This revolutionized how goods and people were transported, leading to faster travel times and expanded trade networks. The ability to transport raw materials to factories and finished goods to markets opened up new economic opportunities and facilitated globalization.
• Analyze how the societal changes brought about by the Second Industrial Revolution contributed to modern labor movements.
  • The societal changes resulting from the Second Industrial Revolution, including rapid urbanization and harsh working conditions in factories, laid the groundwork for modern labor movements. As workers faced long hours, low wages, and unsafe environments, they began organizing for better rights and conditions. This shift was pivotal in forming labor unions that advocated for workers' rights, ultimately influencing labor laws and social reforms that shape today's workforce regulations.

Related terms

Electricity: A form of energy that became widely harnessed during the Second Industrial Revolution, leading to innovations in lighting, communication, and manufacturing.

Steel: A strong alloy of iron that saw increased production due to advances in manufacturing techniques, becoming essential for construction and machinery.

Mass Production: The process of producing goods in large quantities through the use of assembly lines and automation, a hallmark of the Second Industrial Revolution.