Some events and incidents in history are so significant that they divide the past and present into two distinct parts. The past becomes a symbol of conservatism, while the present discovers paths for future progress. The importance of the Industrial Revolution becomes evident when analyzing European society before it and reflecting on its backwardness. The Industrial Revolution not only transformed Europe’s economic and social life but also, through intellectual development, paved the way for the future by breaking free from the past. On this subject, Carlo M. Cipolla discussed European society before the Industrial Revolution in his book Before the Industrial Revolution.
Social Structure of Pre-Industrial Europe
European society was divided into three classes: religious officials, nobles, and the common people. The first two classes were privileged. High-ranking positions in the state were reserved for them. For nobles, war was a profession, allowing them to amass wealth through plunder. These two powerful classes did not pay taxes, placing a heavy burden on the common people. Due to this inequality, the gap between the rich and poor was immense. Poverty and deprivation led to an increase in crime rates, with major crimes often being patronized by feudal lords, such as cattle theft.
Unemployed youth had very few job opportunities. Many worked in foundries where iron was melted, weakening their lungs due to the smoke. Some worked in coal mines with inadequate fresh air, while others cleaned animal hides, exposing them to diseases. There were few doctors, and medicines were scarce. Hospitals often placed two patients on a single bed, resulting in a high mortality rate among young people.
The Role of Religious Institutions
The church was not only powerful but also wealthy, as nobles would donate a portion of their agricultural land to secure a place in heaven. Another significant religious institution was the monasteries, where monks devoted themselves entirely to worship. These monasteries were funded by noble donations of arable land. However, this non-productive sect of monks was a financial burden on society.
The Emergence of Cities and Bourgeoisie
From the 11th to the 13th century, a transformation occurred with the establishment of cities. After the fall of the Roman Empire, feudal lords resided in castles on their estates, accompanied by their servants and armies. Small settlements existed for religious officials, traders, and common people. These settlements had small populations, but when traders began international commerce, they established weekly and fortnightly markets to sell imported goods. People from nearby villages and towns started visiting these markets, which gradually evolved into permanent marketplaces with shops selling essential goods. This led to the emergence of the bourgeoisie class, which was intellectually progressive, proactive, and more successful than the feudal lords.
Urban Growth and Cultural Transformation
Cities gained prominence when rulers began supporting their development. Urban merchants established institutions, including municipalities, which managed sanitation, crime prevention, and basic public needs. Essentially, cities were governed by merchants. If a farmer fled to a city, they could not be arrested. A German proverb stated, “The air of the city makes you free” (Stadt Luft Macht Frei).
Cities also introduced a new culture, bringing fresh ideas to literature, art, music, and architecture, alongside the establishment of educational institutions.
Decline of Feudal Lords’ Influence
The bourgeoisie class, with its capital, education, and political acumen, diminished the influence of feudal lords. Observing the growth of cities, feudal lords realized that isolating themselves in their castles would lead to their decline. Consequently, they began building residences in cities, spending part of their time there. However, their power continued to weaken against the rising bourgeoisie.
The Importance of Change
This analysis reveals that societal transformation does not occur on its own. It requires a change in mindset, acknowledging that progress is impossible with outdated traditions. Progress demands new ideas, innovations, and technology. European society met this need, particularly with technological advancements like the water mill, which reduced labor and increased convenience. Studying the Industrial Revolution from this perspective highlights its significance in reshaping the world.
