Question

The job of historians is to develop theses to support or refute positions. Defend or refute this statement: 'Without the steam engine, the Industrial Revolution would not have amounted to more than a pile of rickety machines." Use supporting evidence from the book and what we covered in class. Must be at least 1 paragraph (5 sentences).

A) True

B) False

Answer 1

The steam engine was integral to the success and advancements of the Industrial Revolution, replacing slow human and animal-powered work with efficient mechanized labor. The correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that 'Without the steam engine, the Industrial Revolution would not have amounted to more than a pile of rickety machines' is largely accurate.

The steam engine was a pivotal invention during the Industrial Revolution, representing a major leap in technology that dramatically increased productivity. Before its introduction, human and animal power were the primary sources of energy, making production slow and labor-intensive.

With James Watt's improvements to the steam engine in 1782, it became possible to perform tasks that previously would have required the labor of many workers or the use of several animals. The Industrial Revolution is characterized by the transition to powered machinery, most notably the steam engine, which played a critical role in shaping the economic and social changes of the era.

Hence, Option A is correct.