The idea of an Industrial Revolution is a hotly debated concept among historians. Part of the argument against its usage is that it both implies a rapid, sharp historical break and a single model. Neither really help us understand the diverse ways in which economies industrialized. A major theme in Unit 5 is the diverse ways in which national economies industrialized and modernized. Britain was the first and others followed, roughly speaking, that model, but they did so on their own terms.

Task:

Compare and contrast the British experience of industrialization with at least one other national economy discussed in Unit 5 (Germany, United States, Russia, Japan). Your response should address the following questions:

What role did the nation-state play in the industrialization process?
a. What role, if any, did empire-building play in the industrialization process?
When did industrialization take place?
How long was the process?
What technologies and ideologies helped shape the process of industrialization?