Final answer:
Germany's industrialization occurred rapidly after its unification in 1871, focusing on heavy industry and steel production, unlike England’s earlier textile-led industrialization. Belgium leveraged its geography and British expertise to industrialize, especially in textiles. France's industrial growth was slower due to protective tariffs and traditionalist leanings.
Step-by-step explanation:
Germany's industrial development differed from England's in several ways. England, as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, began industrializing in the 18th century. The country quickly advanced in industries such as textiles, and applied machine technology to the mass production of goods. Conversely, Germany was politically fragmented until its unification in 1871, which is when its rapid industrialization commenced. Germany focused on heavy industry over textiles, imported technology, and emphasized steel production, surpassing Great Britain by the 1890s.
Belgium, as the first nation to industrialize on the European mainland, had a geographic advantage with a network of waterways and proximity of coal and iron resources. Belgium's industrialization was aided by skilled British workers who emigrated and assisted in the textile industry despite Britain's efforts to protect its technological lead. France, meanwhile, experienced slower industrial growth due to tariffs and a preference for traditional methods, along with less abundant natural resources and slower population growth.