Industrialisation and social change in Britain, 1759–1928: forging a new society

This topic explores the profound transformation of British society between 1759 and 1928, driven by industrialisation. It covers the shift from an agrarian, rural society to an urban, industrial one, examining changes in social structure, living and working conditions, and political movements. Key themes include the rise of the factory system, urbanisation, class formation, and the eventual extension of the franchise. Understanding this period is crucial for grasping how modern Britain emerged, with its characteristic class divisions, labour movements, and democratic reforms.

The period begins with the early stages of the Industrial Revolution, marked by inventions like the spinning jenny and steam engine, and ends with the Representation of the People Act 1928, which granted universal suffrage. Students will analyse the impact of industrialisation on different social groups, including the middle class, working class, and aristocracy. They will also explore the role of government intervention, from the Factory Acts to the New Poor Law, and the rise of trade unions and political parties like the Labour Party. This topic is central to understanding the long-term social and political changes that shaped modern Britain.