The Past Speaks

In a new book, The Industrial Revolution in Global Perspective, Robert C. Allen tackles one of the big questions in history, namely, “why did the industrial revolution take place in 18th century Britain and not somewhere in Continental Europe or East Asia?”  Allen’s answer to this important question should concern those of us who study the history of North America, since the Industrial Revolution helps to explain, inter alia, why English became the dominant language on this continent. His book will interest economic historians, historians of science and technology, and many others.

Coalbrookdale at Night, 1801

You can watch Allen talk about this book here. The video incorporates a powerpoint presentation with some really good images.

Dr Allen is a member of the Royal Society of Canada, btw.