Industrial Revolution and Scientific and Technological Progress

This working paper is a draft chapter for the UNESCO-History of Humanity. Different views on the concept and spread of the industrial revolution, which took place from the late 18th century onwards, are dealt with. By way of example the revolutionary character of technological change and the search for new sources of energy is described and analysed for some major innovations and industries, namely the steam engine, the iron and steel industry and the use of electricity. Furthermore the question is discussed as to what extent sciences were related to technical progress. In this context the emergence of higher technical education at universities is put forward. Some brief remarks on the role of agriculture and the increasing economic ties among countries during the 19th century conclude this paper