The Unfolding of the American Industrial Revolution Amidst Britain’s Industrial Transformation
The British industrial revolution, which spanned from the late 18th to the early 19th centuries, was a hallmark of technological and economic progress. However, during this period, a parallel revolution was occurring across the Atlantic in the United States. This article delves into the key aspects of the American industrial revolution, its timeline, and how it evolved in tandem with the British revolution.
Colonial Httle Against the British Monopoly
The American industrial revolution began during the overall colonial revolution of 1776, which marked America’s independence from Great Britain. Prior to this, the British Crown had limited the production of manufactured goods in its colonies. This policy was enforced to protect British manufacturers, who were the major suppliers of manufactured goods to the colonies. The list of prohibited but essential products was extensive, including but not limited to distilling, milling grains, sawmills, shipyards, furniture-making, hand-tool making, wagon and wheelmaking, brewing, wine-making, printing/bookbinding, barrel-making, and food processing, among others. In essence, the expectation was that sophisticated manufacturing would occur solely in Britain.
Following the declaration of independence, American manufacturers seized this market opportunity. From 1775-1777, these freshly-independent colonies began producing everything from munitions to textiles. Companies like DuPont chemical and Ames tools surged during this period. The Springfield Armory, established during this time, became a hub for advancing machine tool design. Innovations such as the multi-spindle lathe, milling machines, and precision manufacturing of small parts played a critical role in streamlining production and standardization. Over time, the Springfield Armory’s innovations and techniques spread to other New England manufacturers, greatly accelerating their capabilities.
Key Resources and Discoveries
Key to America’s burgeoning industrial revolution were the vast natural resources discovered throughout the new nation. Significant deposits of high-quality coal, iron ore, and copper were found in Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and West Virginia. The high-heat anthracite coal was readily accessible, closely followed by significant quantities of high-quality iron ore. Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin provided high-quality iron ore and surface deposits. Additionally, oil was discovered and extracted by 1859 in Pennsylvania. This provided a powerful energy source for various industrial applications, along with the lubricants and cutting oils necessary for machinery and machine tools. The oil also served as protective coatings for metal and wood components, enhancing their durability and stability.
The lack of easy transportation was initially a significant barrier to large-scale manufacturing. However, as the railroads were completed in 1893, the logistical challenges largely disappeared. Innovative transportation networks facilitated the movement of goods, allowing local manufacturing to thrive and become competitive. Another pivotal development was the emergence of mail-order catalogs, starting with the 1872 Montgomery Ward catalog. This accelerated American mass manufacturing, expanding the reach of industrial products across the nation.
Innovations and Business Growth
The early 19th century saw numerous American inventions, many of which were foundational to modern business practices. Among the innovations were typewriters, telegraphic sets, telephones, and switchboards, which were developed initially for a single building and later for city-wide use. Minimal “job” printing presses and mechanical adding machines were introduced, significantly boosting productivity and accuracy in offices. These inventions were not just tools but essential elements in the growth of larger, more complex organizations.
Beyond technological advancements, the concept of "business schools" was born in the United States in the early 19th century. While the intention was to educate a new generation of business leaders, these institutions eventually began to prioritize the needs of financial speculators over practical business skills. This shift was unfortunate as it stifled the American industrial revolution. Interestingly, the British eventually adopted some of these education models, which ultimately aided in the decline of their own industrial revolution.
Conclusion
The American industrial revolution, much like its British counterpart, was characterized by rapid advancements in manufacturing, technological innovation, and resource discovery. While the British revolution had a profound impact on global industrialization, the American revolution, driven by the independence movement and natural resources, played a equally vital role. The inventions, innovations, and educational models born during these periods laid the groundwork for modern industries and underscore the transformative power of technological and economic progress.