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Agricultural advancements during the industrial revolution allowed for increased production which in turn had a positive impact on the revolution.
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Agricultural advances prior to the Industrial Revolution
The Agricultural Revolution was a period of technological change in agriculture that occurred in Europe and Britain between the 16th and 19th centuries. The changes made during this time led to an increase in food production and an improvement in the efficiency of farming. This, in turn, helped to spur the Industrial Revolution by providing a ready supply of food for the workers in the factories.
The Enclosure Movement
The Enclosure Movement was the process by which common land in England was appropriated by the rich and fenced off for private use. This process began in earnest during the 18th century, although it had been underway on a small scale since the 13th century. The effects of enclosure were to increase agricultural productivity, but also to dispossess peasants of their traditional rights to land and its proceeds. This, in turn, helped to create a pool of landless workers who were available for employment in the new factories that were springing up during the Industrial Revolution.
The development of new crops
One of the most important agricultural advances prior to the Industrial Revolution was the development of new crops. The adoption of new crops allowed farmers to increase their yields and produce more food. This, in turn, led to a decrease in the price of food, which made it more affordable for workers. The introduction of new crops also contributed to the growth of the global economy by making it possible to trade goods between different continents.
Other agricultural advances included the development of new methods for irrigation and crop rotation. These advances helped to increase crop yields and improve the quality of farmland. The development of livestock breeds was another important advance. This allowed farmers to raise animals that were better suited to their needs and gave them a higher chance of survival.
The impact of agricultural advances on the Industrial Revolution
Technological advances in agriculture played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution. One of the main reasons for this was that the agricultural sector was able to provide a consistent and reliable source of raw materials for industry. This in turn led to increased productivity and efficiency in the industrial sector, which helped to spur on further economic growth.
The increased demand for labor
The Agricultural Revolution had a profound impact on the Industrial Revolution. One of the most important changes was the increased demand for labor. Prior to the Agricultural Revolution, most people were employed in agriculture. However, with the introduction of new technologies, fewer people were needed to work in agriculture, and more people were available to work in other industries. This increased labor supply was one of the factors that helped to spark the Industrial Revolution.
The increased demand for food
The Agricultural Revolution allowed for an increased food supply, which in turn led to a population increase. The increased population created a greater demand for goods and services, jump-starting the Industrial Revolution. The Agricultural Revolution also resulted in the creation of new jobs in the agricultural and food processing industries, which contributed to the growth of the economy.
The impact on other industries
While the agricultural advances of the Industrial Revolution increased farm production, they also had important effects on other industries. The increased food production made it possible for more people to live in cities and work in factories. The demand for new farm equipment created a market for iron and steel, which spurred the growth of these industries. In turn, the increased production of iron and steel led to advances in transportation, as railroads were built to transport raw materials and finished products. The growth of industry, agriculture, and transportation facilitated trade and prosperity throughout Europe and North America.
