Global Impact of the Industrial Revolution
Industrialization began in Britain in the 18th century with the creation of the steam engine. This invention allowed for energy production from coal, which was needed for factories and to produce new goods that were in demand due to a population increase. This was only the beginning of a revolution that would affect not only Europe but also other continents.
China and the Opium War
In 1839, China was drawn into this revolution. One of the many consequences of European industrialization was unfavorable trade terms between countries. One such case was between China and Britain, where unequal treaties occurred. China was obligated to cede Hong Kong as a colony and continue trading with Britain against its will. This all stemmed from the Opium War. China possessed something Britain greatly desired: tea. However, China would only accept silver in exchange. Britain eventually found something of interest to China: opium, a powerful drug that addicted approximately 11 million Chinese citizens. When Emperor Lin discovered this, he demanded all opium supplies and prohibited the trade. Consequently, China stopped trading with Britain, which resulted in a war that lasted for two years. Britain’s victory forced China to continue trading and accept unfavorable terms, similar to what happened in Africa.
Africa’s Exploitation During Industrialization
Africa was significantly affected by the Industrial Revolution. The Congo was massively exploited by other countries seeking its resources, such as ivory, timber, and copper. Furthermore, Africans were traded in exchange for goods. King Leopold II declared himself ruler and established a period known as “the terror.” Countries like France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Belgium scrambled for control of Africa. This situation was devastating for Africans while industrialization continued to spread across the rest of the world.
Industrialization’s Impact on Russia’s Social System
Industrialization had a profound effect on Russia’s social system. Initially, Russia had a stagnant economy with slow economic growth and an estate system where serfs worked in agriculture for the nobles. The Crimean War, which Russia lost against France and Britain, highlighted the need for industrialization. This realization led to the emancipation of serfs. However, nobles were reluctant to free their serfs and grant them rights without compensation. Although the Tsar freed the serfs and gave them land, the land was too expensive for them to purchase. Consequently, many serfs moved to the cities, contributing to the communist rebellion in 1917. Critics argued that better management by the Tsar could have prevented this outcome. The cities became populated with a large number of former serfs.
In conclusion, the Industrial Revolution not only caused several changes in Britain, but it also affected the rest of the world. It was the first step for a newly developed society, which has grown into what we have today. Despite the many unequal treaties and social system changes that caused rebellions, it was a way of developing the world.