What was the impact of the Industrial Revolution on Bury - Teacher's Notes

Teachers are provided with notes to aid in explaining the significant impact of the Industrial Revolution on Bury and the broader region of Greater Manchester. They are to inform pupils that the expansion of the cotton industry was a key driver of the Industrial Revolution, which in turn made Manchester and its neighbouring towns some of the richest areas globally. The notes highlight the profound transformation in the economy and society of Greater Manchester, with Manchester itself evolving into a crucial commercial hub due to the dominance of the cotton trade. This economic boom led to a surge in the city's population as people flocked to the area for employment opportunities or moved to cities for the first time.

However, the notes also draw attention to the darker aspects of the Industrial Revolution. Despite the prosperity and wealth generated, many factory workers faced harsh conditions and low wages, with only a small fraction of the population reaping substantial financial benefits. The educational unit's goal is to help pupils grasp both the positive and negative consequences of this pivotal period in history. To initiate the learning process, pupils are directed to watch a specific BBC Teach video on industrialisation, which serves as an introductory resource to the topic. Through this, they will begin to explore the reasons behind Bury's existence and the profound changes brought about by the Industrial Revolution in this locality.