Industrial Revolution DBQ Essay

The American Industrial Revolution was a century-long transition from a culture dependent on agriculture to a culture with a more industrial based economy. This revolution marked a major turning point in history, and almost every aspect of daily life was influenced in some way. Many factors led up to this important period in history including mercantilism enforced by the british, which led to the Embargo Act, the greater opportunities available in industry that offered better wages and hours, and the various factory labor and entrepreneurial innovation, such as in the Slater Mill. Each of these things- war, opportunities, and innovations- individually aided in the development of the American Industrial Revolution.
The first cause of the American Industrial Revolution was the continuous bullying of America by the British. They enforced mercantilist policies, blockaded ports, and impressed sailors. Thomas Jefferson issued the Embargo Act of 1807 to restrict trade with all foreign countries, particularly Britain and France, with the goal of hurting their economy. Unfortunately the opposite occurred, America’s economy suffered instead. Without foreign trade there was high unemployment,

There were many farms, and for most it was where they made their living. But as the Industrial Revolution approached, more and more were deciding to leave that behind to find work in manufacturing and industry (doc C). The wages were substantially higher and the work was less physically stressing and more repetitious. In addition, people moved to these areas to get an education. In the cities the government promoted schools and encouraged science and the arts to produce a more educated labor force. (doc B,A). By doing this, the government not only bettered society, but drew people to the cities, where they acquired factory jobs and helped to start the Industrial