Factory system

Definition

The factory system is a method of manufacturing that began during the Industrial Revolution, characterized by the concentration of production processes in a single location using machinery and a large workforce. This system revolutionized production by increasing efficiency, enabling mass production, and facilitating the use of specialized labor. It marked a shift from traditional artisanal methods to mechanized and organized manufacturing, shaping modern industry and labor practices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The factory system allowed for the centralization of labor, where workers performed specific tasks in a single facility rather than working at home or in small workshops.
2. Factories typically operated under strict schedules, contrasting with the more flexible work hours associated with artisanal production.
3. This system was heavily reliant on machines, such as steam engines, which powered various manufacturing processes and significantly boosted productivity.
4. The factory system also contributed to urbanization, as people migrated from rural areas to cities in search of factory jobs.
5. Labor conditions in factories were often harsh, leading to the emergence of labor movements and calls for reform during the Industrial Revolution.

Review Questions

• How did the factory system change the dynamics of labor during the Industrial Revolution?
  • The factory system transformed labor dynamics by centralizing production processes and introducing strict work schedules. Workers were no longer independent artisans working at their own pace; instead, they became part of a larger workforce focused on specific tasks within a factory setting. This shift not only increased productivity but also altered workers' relationships with their jobs, as they had to adapt to factory life that emphasized speed and efficiency over traditional craftsmanship.
• Evaluate the impact of the factory system on urbanization and social structures during the Industrial Revolution.
  • The factory system significantly contributed to urbanization as it drew large numbers of workers to cities seeking employment in factories. This influx of people led to rapid city growth, often outpacing infrastructure development and resulting in overcrowded living conditions. Social structures also changed as factory work became a dominant form of employment, creating a distinct working class and altering family dynamics where multiple members often had to work in factories to make ends meet.
• Synthesize the long-term effects of the factory system on modern industrial practices and labor relations.
  • The factory system laid the groundwork for contemporary industrial practices by introducing concepts such as mass production, mechanization, and specialization. These practices have continued to evolve, shaping industries today through advancements in technology and efficiency. Additionally, the labor issues that emerged during the rise of the factory system led to significant changes in labor relations, including the establishment of labor laws, unionization efforts, and improved working conditions that are foundational aspects of today's workforce protections.

Related terms

industrialization: The process of transitioning from agrarian economies to industrial ones, leading to the growth of factories and mass production.

division of labor: The separation of tasks in production processes, allowing workers to specialize in specific tasks to increase efficiency and output.

mechanization:

The use of machines to perform tasks previously done by hand, which enhances productivity and transforms industries.