Q. What were the reasons for the rapid growth of the Industrial Revolution in Europe? Discuss in the context of the relative absence of modern industrialisation in the prosperous lands of India and China till the 19th century.
Ans: The Industrial Revolution in Europe, particularly in Britain, was driven by a unique convergence of economic, political, technological, and geographic factors. In contrast, India and China, despite their historical prosperity, did not experience similar industrialisation until much later due to structural and colonial constraints.
Reasons for Rapid Growth in Europe
- Capital Accumulation: Profits from colonial trade and mercantilism created surplus wealth for industrial investment.
- Technological Innovation: Inventions like the spinning jenny, steam engine, and power loom revolutionised production.
- Access to Resources: Abundant coal and iron deposits supported energy and machinery needs.
- Political Stability and Legal Frameworks: Property rights, patent laws, and a pro-business environment encouraged entrepreneurship.
- Agricultural Revolution: Increased food production freed labour for industrial work and created surplus capital.
- Transport Infrastructure: Development of railways, canals, and ports facilitated movement of goods and raw materials.
- Colonial Markets and Raw Materials: Colonies provided cheap inputs and captive markets for manufactured goods.
Relative Absence of Industrialisation in India and China
- Colonial Exploitation (India): British policies led to deindustrialisation, draining wealth and suppressing indigenous industries.
- Lack of Capital and Infrastructure: Absence of investment in modern machinery and transport systems.
- Artisanal Dominance: Reliance on handicrafts and cottage industries without mechanisation.
- Political Fragmentation (China): Internal instability and resistance to Western technology delayed industrial adoption.
- Trade Imbalances: India and China were integrated into global trade as raw material suppliers, not industrial producers.
In conclusion, Europe’s industrial surge was enabled by systemic advantages and colonial leverage, while India and China’s delayed industrialisation reflected external suppression and internal inertia.
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