155k views
4 votes
1. What geographic factors helped Britain industrialize first?

2. What factors held back early industrialization in China and Japan?

3. What social factors helped Britain industrialize first?

4. How might the institution of slavery have helped cause industrialization?

1 Answer

4 votes

Answer:

Some of the geographic factors that helped Britain industrialize first include its abundant supply of coal and iron, which were important resources for fueling the machines of the Industrial Revolution. Additionally, Britain's extensive coastline and numerous ports allowed for easy transportation of goods and raw materials, which further facilitated industrialization.

One of the factors that held back early industrialization in China and Japan was their focus on agriculture as the primary economic activity. In addition, their isolationist policies and lack of interaction with other cultures hindered the exchange of ideas and technology. Furthermore, the rigid social structures in both countries, with a powerful ruling class and a large peasant population, limited social mobility and innovation.

Social factors that helped Britain industrialize first include a relatively stable political system, which provided a foundation for investment and innovation, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit among its citizens. Additionally, Britain had a well-developed financial system that facilitated investment in new businesses and technologies.

The institution of slavery in Britain's colonies in the Americas and the Caribbean helped to fuel the demand for manufactured goods in Britain, as the slave labor produced raw materials like cotton that were then manufactured into finished goods in Britain's factories. This system of forced labor allowed for the production of large quantities of raw materials at a relatively low cost, which in turn helped to fuel industrialization by providing cheap inputs for manufacturing. However, it is important to note that the exploitation of slave labor is a morally reprehensible practice and cannot be justified on economic grounds.

User Toddgeist
by
8.3k points