Forging Modernity: Why and How Britain Developed the Industrial Revolution

During the Industrial Revolution, Britain surpassed its European competitors due to its superior policies, effective marketing, control systems, and logistics, which resulted in a significant industrial lead by 1830. However, the decline of Industrial Britain was caused by changes in policy after the Tories lost power. Nonetheless, the policies that drove growth, ingenuity, and rising living standards remain available for those bold enough to adopt them.

Format: Hardback
Length: 450 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2023
Publisher: James Clarke & Co Ltd

The Industrial Revolution brought about the most significant improvement in living standards the world has ever witnessed, propelling Britain to supremacy on the global stage. Martin Hutchinson delves into the factors that led to Britain's ascendancy in his book, Forging Modernity, by examining how and why it surpassed its European competitors. Hutchinson compares the endowments and political structures of Britain and other European countries as early as 1600 and traces how Britain, through superior policies primarily advocated by the political Tory party, diverged from its counterparts.

Hutchinson's background in Harvard MBA provides a unique perspective on the early industrial enterprises. He highlights that many successes resulted from marketing, control systems, and logistics rather than solely relying on production technology. On a national scale, the scientific method and commercial competition played equally significant roles alongside physical infrastructure. By 1830, Britain had established a substantial industrial lead, surpassing its rivals by half a century through continuous policy improvements. However, the political landscape shifted when the Tories lost power, leading to a significant policy change that would have a lasting impact.

In the conclusion of his book, Hutchinson explores how changes traditionally perceived as positive by historians contributed to the decline of Industrial Britain. Nevertheless, the policies that drove growth, ingenuity, and rising living standards remain accessible to those bold enough to embrace them. The Industrial Revolution marked a pivotal period in human history, transforming societies and economies worldwide. By examining the factors that led to Britain's success, Hutchinson sheds light on the principles that can still drive economic prosperity and innovation in the modern world.

Weight: 842g
Dimension: 242 x 165 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780718896867