The British Industrial Revolution in Global Perspective: How Commerce Created The Industrial Revolution and Modern Economic Growth (original) (raw)

The paper explores how Britain's unique economic conditions, characterized by high wages and cheap energy, facilitated the Industrial Revolution. It argues against the notions of British cultural superiority or mere luck as reasons for this period of rapid innovation, positing instead that it was Britain's success in global commerce and its geographic advantages, particularly the availability of inexpensive coal. The study analyzes various factors including technological advancements, the role of international trade, and local economic policies, concluding that these elements combined to create an environment ripe for significant technological and economic growth.