The First Industrial Revolution

The first industrial revolution took place in the 18th century, from 1760 to 1830 (T.S. Ashton. The Industrial Revolution 1760-1830. Oxford University Press. 1998). During this time, the production of goods changed from hand production to mechanical production, that is, it was driven by the advent of machines in combination with the use of power.

In fact, the power loom (or weaving machine), which was invented by Edmund Cartwright in 1784, played an important role (see Figure 2.3). It was a steam-powered weaving machine. Although it improved the weaving process, it took some time before the technology was widespread.

However, these weaving machines raised many concerns about the loss of workplaces and worsened conditions for workers. Finally, it led to the so-called Machine Storm. This protest movement destroyed many production sites. Nevertheless, power loom technology continued to improve over the next 47 years, until a new design by Kenworthy and Bullough...