Industrialization is the process of transforming an economy from primarily agricultural to one based on the manufacturing of goods and services. It typically involves the development of large-scale industries, the establishment of factories, and the adoption of new technologies and production methods. Industrialization often leads to urbanization, as people move from rural areas to cities in search of work in factories and industries.
Key features of industrialization include:
- Technological Innovation: Development of new machines and processes that increase production efficiency.
- Mass Production: The ability to produce large quantities of goods, often using assembly line techniques.
- Labor Shift: Movement of labor forces from agricultural work to manufacturing jobs.
- Economic Changes: Shift in economic focus from farming to industrial output, which can lead to increased GDP and economic growth.
- Infrastructure Development: Expansion of transportation systems (like railways and roads) and utilities to support industrial activities.
- Global Trade: Increased trade as industrialized nations export goods and import raw materials.
Industrialization has historically been associated with significant social changes, including changes in labor conditions, family structure, and social organization, as well as environmental impacts due to increased pollution and resource consumption.