Changes during the industrial revolution

• The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes as people moved to urban areas to work in factories under harsh conditions
• Before the Industrial Revolution, goods were mainly made in domestic industries at home
• Wealthy British individuals invested in new inventions and factories, with much of the money coming from the process of colonisation
• Colonies were crucial for Britain as they provided raw materials for manufacturing industries and new markets for British products
• In the 18th century, Britain's colonies played a vital role in financing the Industrial Revolution
• The profits from the Transatlantic Slave Trade significantly contributed to Britain's wealth in the 18th century and helped finance the Industrial Revolution
• During the 18th century, Britain shifted its focus to the slave trade, leading to increased trade with the colonies in the West Indies and North America
• The Transatlantic Slave Trade, also known as the 'triangular trade', was based on slaves and played a key role in Britain's economic growth
• Steam engines were used to power trains, boats and factories.
• The steam engines was invented by James Watt in 1765.
• The industrial revolution was able to happen as a result of merchants wealth as the invested profits in buildings the machines and factories that developed the industrial revolution
• Canal building began in 1760 and continued until 1830
• Improvements in transport such as canals allowed goods to be moved more quickly and cheaply around the country
• In 1794, Richard Arkwright opened his first cotton mill at Cromford in Derbyshire
• Cottagers were forced to move to the countryside to make way for the industrial revolution
• By 1820 there were over 1 million people living in towns with populations greater than 10,000
• Mineral Revolution


  A period of rapid industrialization and economic growth in South Africa, driven by the discovery and extraction of mineral resources, the development of mining technology, and the creation of large mining companies. It had significant impacts on the economy, society, and politics of South Africa.
• Discovery of minerals


  The discovery of vast mineral deposits, including diamonds and gold, in South Africa led to a boom in mining activity.
• Development of mining technology


  The development of new mining technologies, such as deep-level mining and mechanized mining, allowed for the extraction of minerals from greater depths and in larger quantities.
• Creation of mining companies

  Large mining companies, such as De Beers and Anglo American, were established to exploit the mineral resources of South Africa.
• Infrastructure development


  The mining industry drove the development of infrastructure, such as railways and ports, to transport minerals to markets.
• Economic impact


  The mineral revolution transformed the South African economy, making it one of the largest and most industrialized economies in Africa.
• Labor migration


  The demand for labor in the mining sector led to large-scale migration of workers from rural areas to mining towns and cities.
• Social impact


  The mineral revolution also had significant social and political impacts, including the growth of urbanization, the emergence of a black working class, and the intensification of racial and economic inequalities.
• Chamber of Mines


  A South African mining industry organization established in 1889 to represent the interests of mining companies operating in the country. It is responsible for promoting the interests of its members, engaging in advocacy, research, and stakeholder engagement, and has been involved in a range of issues related to the mining industry, including labor relations, health and safety, environmental management, and social responsibility.
• Migrant labor


  A system of labor in which workers, often from rural areas, are recruited to work in mining operations for extended periods of time, leaving their families behind. The system of migrant labor has been criticized for its social and economic impacts on families and communities, and for perpetuating racial and economic inequalities.
• Sustainable development


  A development approach that seeks to balance economic, social, and environmental objectives to ensure long-term sustainability. The mining industry has been increasingly focused on promoting sustainable development, including through the use of cleaner technologies, responsible sourcing, and community engagement.
• Health and safety


  The measures taken to ensure the safety and health of mining workers, including the use of protective equipment, training programs, and safety protocols. The mining industry has been focused on improving health and safety outcomes, in response to concerns about the high rates of injury and illness in mining operations.
• Environmental management


  The practices and policies used to minimize the environmental impacts of mining operations, including the management of waste, water, and energy resources, and the restoration of mined lands. The mining industry has been working to reduce its environmental footprint and promote sustainable development.
• Social responsibility


  The responsibility of mining companies to contribute to the social and economic development of the communities in which they operate, including through community engagement, investment in local infrastructure, and support for local businesses. The mining industry has been increasingly focused on social responsibility as a means of building trust and support among local communities.