Britain's Industrialization Began in the 17th Century, Study Finds

Historical research challenges traditional narratives, suggesting a century-earlier start to the Industrial Revolution.

New research from the University of Cambridge reveals that Britain's industrialization began in the 17th century, challenging traditional historical narratives.
The shift from agriculture to manufacturing and services started much earlier than previously thought, with significant changes in the labor force distribution.
The study, based on over 160 million documents, shows a decline in agricultural labor and a rise in manufacturing and service sectors.
Female and child labor played crucial roles in the early stages of Britain's industrialization, with participation rates changing over the centuries.
This groundbreaking research suggests a need to rewrite the history of Britain's economic development and the global Industrial Revolution.