Second Industrial Revolution

Definition

The Second Industrial Revolution, occurring roughly from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, marked a period of rapid industrial growth and technological advancement, characterized by the expansion of electricity, steel production, and chemical processes. This era was pivotal in transforming economies, enhancing productivity, and altering social structures as it laid the foundation for modern industry and urbanization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The introduction of electricity powered factories and streetcars, revolutionizing transportation and urban life.
2. Steel production techniques improved significantly with the Bessemer process, allowing for stronger materials essential for infrastructure and machinery.
3. Innovations in communication, such as the telephone and telegraph, transformed how businesses operated and facilitated global trade.
4. The rise of large corporations and monopolies occurred as industries consolidated, influencing economic practices and labor relations.
5. Labor movements gained momentum during this time as workers organized to demand better conditions, leading to significant social changes.

Review Questions

• How did advancements in electricity impact industries during the Second Industrial Revolution?
  • Advancements in electricity fundamentally transformed industries by enabling machines to operate more efficiently and reliably. Factories could now run longer hours without relying on daylight, increasing productivity. Additionally, the use of electric-powered streetcars improved urban transportation, connecting workers to jobs and reshaping city layouts. This shift not only enhanced industrial capabilities but also facilitated the growth of urban centers around factories.
• In what ways did mass production techniques evolve during the Second Industrial Revolution, and what were their implications for labor?
  • Mass production techniques evolved significantly during the Second Industrial Revolution with the adoption of assembly lines and standardized parts. This innovation allowed factories to produce goods faster and at a lower cost, changing how products were made. However, it also led to a more repetitive work environment for laborers, which resulted in demands for better wages and working conditions as workers sought to improve their quality of life amidst these changes.
• Evaluate the social consequences of the Second Industrial Revolution, particularly regarding labor movements and urbanization.
  • The Second Industrial Revolution had profound social consequences, particularly through the rise of labor movements and rapid urbanization. As factories grew in size and number, millions flocked to cities for work, leading to significant demographic shifts. This urbanization often resulted in overcrowded living conditions, prompting workers to organize into unions to advocate for their rights. These movements were critical in pushing for labor reforms such as better wages, reduced working hours, and safer workplace conditions, ultimately shaping modern labor laws and practices.

Related terms

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

Mass Production:

The process of producing goods in large quantities using assembly lines and standardized parts, significantly advanced during this period.

Chemical Industry: A sector that grew dramatically during the Second Industrial Revolution, focusing on the production of chemicals used in various applications, including agriculture and manufacturing.