Negative issues associated with the Industrial Revolution - History of Bury - Year 3

The Industrial Revolution brought about remarkable economic growth in towns like Bury, yet it was not without its drawbacks, particularly for the working-class population. The transformation began around the turn of the 19th century when Bury's population was a modest 7,000 without a single mill. However, by 1901, the population had surged to 58,000, and mills had become a staple of the town's landscape. This period of rapid industrialisation, fuelled by coal and the advent of the factory system, significantly altered the production of goods and the daily lives of people.

Despite the economic prosperity that factories and mines brought to some, the era was marred by the exploitation of workers by wealthy owners. The working-class people of Bury faced numerous hardships. Poor working conditions were rampant, with many toiling in dirty environments for meagre wages. Overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions were common, and the use of child labour was widespread. Pollution from the mills filled the air, and the exploitation of workers was prevalent, with mill owners often holding more sway over local laws than the government. These factors contributed to a lower life expectancy, with many dying at a young age. The impact of the Industrial Revolution on Bury was thus a mix of economic success and social challenges, painting a complex picture of progress and its costs.