Unit 5 of AP World History covers a period of immense change: the Industrial Revolution and its global consequences. Mastering the vocabulary is crucial for success on the exam. This guide breaks down key terms, providing context and connections to help you understand the broader historical narrative.
Key Terms and Concepts: The Industrial Revolution's Impact
This section focuses on the vocabulary directly related to the Industrial Revolution's origins and spread.
Industrial Revolution:
This period of major technological advancements, primarily in Britain from the late 18th century, fundamentally transformed society through mass production, new energy sources, and urbanization. Understanding the causes (agricultural revolution, access to resources, capital, etc.) and consequences (social stratification, environmental changes, global trade shifts) is paramount.
Factory System:
A system of manufacturing characterized by centralized production in factories, using machinery and employing a large workforce. This contrasts sharply with earlier forms of production like cottage industry. Consider its impact on labor, living conditions, and the rise of industrial capitalism.
Mass Production:
The manufacturing of large quantities of standardized goods, often using assembly lines or other efficient techniques. This led to lower prices, increased availability, and significant changes in consumption patterns.
Interchangeable Parts:
Parts of a machine or device that are identical and can be easily replaced, greatly simplifying manufacturing and repair. Eli Whitney's contribution is key here.
Assembly Line:
A manufacturing process in which parts are added to a product sequentially, typically on a moving conveyor belt. This drastically improved efficiency and lowered production costs.
Capitalism:
An economic system based on private ownership of the means of production and their operation for profit. Explore the different forms of capitalism that emerged during this period and its impact on social structures and global trade.
Socialism:
An economic and political ideology advocating for social ownership and/or control of the means of production and distribution of goods and services, often with a focus on social equality. Understand how this ideology emerged as a response to the inequalities of industrial capitalism.
Communism:
A socioeconomic ideology that advocates for a classless society and the abolition of private property. Analyze its development and its contrasting relationship with both capitalism and socialism.
Proletariat:
The working class, typically employed in industrial settings, often lacking ownership of the means of production. This concept is central to Marxist theory.
Bourgeoisie:
The middle class, typically associated with property ownership and control of the means of production in capitalist societies. Examine its changing role and relationship to the proletariat.
Global Consequences and Transformations: Expanding the Scope
This section delves into the vocabulary related to the global impact of industrialization.
Imperialism:
The policy of extending a nation's power and influence through diplomacy or military force. The Industrial Revolution fueled a new wave of imperialism, as industrialized nations sought resources, markets, and strategic locations.
Colonialism:
The policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically. Understand the different forms of colonialism and their lasting impacts on colonized societies.
Sphere of Influence:
A region or country over which a powerful state claims exclusive political or economic influence. This was a key feature of late 19th and early 20th-century imperialism.
Extraterritoriality:
The right of foreign residents in a country to be governed by the laws of their native country rather than the laws of the host country. This practice highlights the unequal power dynamics in imperial relationships.
Global Trade:
The exchange of goods and services across international borders. The Industrial Revolution greatly expanded global trade, leading to new economic interdependencies and power dynamics.
Migration:
The movement of people from one place to another, often driven by economic opportunities or political circumstances. Industrialization spurred massive internal and international migration patterns.
Urbanization:
The process of increasing the proportion of a population living in urban areas. The Industrial Revolution led to rapid urbanization, creating new social challenges and opportunities.
This vocabulary provides a strong foundation for understanding Unit 5. Remember to connect these terms to specific examples and case studies from the period to solidify your understanding and prepare effectively for the AP World History exam. Remember to consult your textbook and other resources for further detail and context on these key terms.
