How did the Industrial Revolution impact global trade and imperialism?

History The Industrial Revolution Questions Medium



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How did the Industrial Revolution impact global trade and imperialism?

The Industrial Revolution had a profound impact on global trade and imperialism.

Firstly, the Industrial Revolution led to a significant increase in the production of goods. The invention of new machinery and the development of factories allowed for mass production on a scale never seen before. This increase in production created a surplus of goods, which in turn fueled the need for new markets to sell these products. As a result, global trade expanded rapidly during this period, as European powers sought to find new markets for their manufactured goods.

Secondly, the Industrial Revolution also had a direct impact on imperialism. European powers, particularly Britain, sought to secure raw materials and resources from around the world to fuel their industrial production. This led to the colonization and exploitation of many regions, as European powers established colonies and protectorates to ensure a steady supply of resources. Imperialism became a means to control and dominate markets, ensuring access to raw materials and securing new markets for manufactured goods.

Furthermore, the Industrial Revolution also transformed transportation and communication systems. The invention of steam-powered ships and the expansion of railway networks facilitated the movement of goods across long distances, making global trade more efficient and cost-effective. This, in turn, further fueled the expansion of imperialism, as European powers could now easily transport goods and resources between their colonies and home countries.

Overall, the Industrial Revolution had a profound impact on global trade and imperialism. It led to the expansion of global trade as European powers sought new markets for their manufactured goods. It also fueled the growth of imperialism as European powers colonized and exploited regions for resources. The revolution also transformed transportation and communication systems, making global trade more efficient.