The transformation of a society from primarily agrarian to a manufacturing and industry-based economy is a fundamental process studied in human geography. This process encompasses significant shifts in production methods, technological advancements, and societal organization. It is characterized by the increased use of machinery, the growth of factories, and the concentration of labor in urban centers. A prime example is the 18th and 19th-century shift in Great Britain, marked by the rise of textile mills and coal mining.
This economic and social restructuring is critical to understanding global development patterns. It leads to increased economic output, higher standards of living (though initially often with significant inequalities), and the creation of new consumer goods and services. Historically, it has been a driver of urbanization, as populations migrate from rural areas to cities in search of employment. Furthermore, it has reshaped global trade relationships, creating a demand for raw materials and new markets for finished products. It also is vital to know its impact on global cultural changes and social aspects within human geography studies.