The term refers to a period of significant technological advancement, particularly in Great Britain from the late 1700s, that dramatically altered production methods and societal structures. It involved the mechanization of labor, the introduction of new energy sources like coal and steam, and the rise of factory systems. An example is the shift from hand-woven textiles produced in homes to machine-made textiles manufactured in large factories.
This transformative era is a crucial element in the AP World History curriculum due to its profound impact on global economies, social hierarchies, and political landscapes. Its effects included increased urbanization, the development of new social classes (e.g., the industrial working class), intensified global trade networks, and altered relationships between nations. Understanding this period is essential for comprehending subsequent historical developments like imperialism, globalization, and modern political ideologies.