The British Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution was more prevalent in Britain than in France because of the type of government that was in place at the time. A constitutional monarchy gave more power to the peasants, so they were more willing to accept the changing technology of the time. Also, the wealth of Britain was more evenly spread among the people, due to a number of peasant uprisings. The lower classes were able to ask for, and obtain, better working conditions. Also, British internalization due to the American revolution caused more emphasis on the industrial capacity of their own country.

The British closely guarded their industrial secrets. Until 1825 skilled artisans and engineers were not allowed to leave the country and until 1843 the export of industrial machinery was illegal, even to British colonies!

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