Abstract:
...With industrialization came rapid urbanization, which required
robust infrastructure: railroads, sewer systems, and urban planning
projects to support growing cities and industries. Factories became
hubs of innovation, particularly in mechanical engineering, driving
productivity, improving standards of living, and fueling economic
growth. Yet, these advances were not without consequence. The
era saw labour exploitation, environmental degradation, and social
inequality, prompting waves of reform. The Industrial Revolution
laid the foundation for the technological breakthroughs of the 20th
century and beyond. Importantly, this period also marked a shift in
gender roles. Women entered the workforce in large numbers,
especially in textile factories, challenging societal norms and
contributing to industrial output. However, industrialization
initially brought poor health outcomes, pollution, overcrowding,
and unsafe working conditions. These...