World-history / Industrial Revolution / Agriculture Revolution
Agriculture Revolution
The Agricultural Revolution, often overlooked in discussions of the Industrial Revolution, actually preceded the latter. It was a transformation in agricultural practices that played a crucial role in supplying the demands of the British industry.
- Cash Crops and Industrial Demands: The revolution in agriculture focused on producing more cash crops to meet the growing demands of British industry. This shift was significant in preparing the agricultural sector for the industrial transition.
- Mechanization and Labor Efficiency: The introduction of new farm types of machinery such as steel ploughs, harrows, mechanical seed drills, horse-drawn cultivators, and reaping and threshing machines greatly reduced the need for manual labour. These innovations increased the efficiency of farming operations.
- Enclosure Movement: Big landlords, in collaboration with legislators in Parliament, spearheaded the Enclosure Movement. This involved consolidating small landholdings of marginal peasants and acquiring village commons. As a result, a surplus of labour became available for urban industries. This surplus labour helped keep labour costs low, contributing to higher profits for businessmen.
- Intensive Farming Practices: New agricultural practices, including intensive manuring and crop rotation, were adopted. These practices enhanced soil fertility and ensured food security for Britain, which was vital for sustaining a growing population.
The Agricultural Revolution was a crucial precursor to the Industrial Revolution, providing the necessary foundation for the transition to an industrialized economy. By modernizing agricultural practices, Britain was able to meet the increasing demands of its burgeoning industry. This transformation played a significant role in the overall economic growth and development during the period of industrialization.
