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Western Europe manufacturing improvements

Definition

This refers to the advancements and innovations made in manufacturing processes in Western Europe, particularly during the Industrial Revolution, which increased efficiency and productivity.

Analogy

Think of it as upgrading from a basic cell phone to a smartphone. The smartphone can do everything the basic phone can but faster, more efficiently and with many more features.

Related terms

Industrial Revolution: This was a period from 18th to 19th century where major changes in agriculture, manufacturing, mining and transport had a profound effect on socioeconomic conditions. It's like moving from horse-drawn carriages to cars.

Mass Production: This is the production of goods in large quantities using machinery and often an assembly line. It's like baking cookies not one by one but dozens at once using a big oven.

Factory System: A method of manufacturing first adopted in England at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution where laborers were employed by factory owners rather than working for themselves. It's like shifting from studying alone at home to going to school where there are teachers (factory owners) guiding you (laborers).