The Agricultural Revolution was a period of significant change in farming practices that occurred in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. This transformation led to an increase in food production, which had far-reaching effects on society. By introducing new farming techniques and improving crop yields, the revolution played a crucial role in shaping the modern world.
The Impact on Productivity and the Poorer Agricultural Classes
The introduction of crop rotation, selective breeding, and the enclosure movement were some of the key changes that characterized the Agricultural Revolution. These innovations boosted agricultural productivity by allowing more efficient use of land and resources. However, while the overall output of food increased, the shift also had negative consequences for the poorer agricultural classes. Many small farmers were unable to compete with larger, more efficient farms and lost their livelihoods as common lands were enclosed for private use.
Elimination of Famine and Rise of Obesity
One of the most significant outcomes of the Agricultural Revolution was the virtual elimination of the threat of famine in Europe, particularly in Western Europe. With the ability to produce surplus food, European populations no longer faced the persistent fear of hunger that had plagued them for centuries. Ironically, this abundance of food led to a new problem—obesity. As food became more readily available and diets changed, obesity began to emerge as a health concern.
Improvements in Living Standards and Population Growth
The increased agricultural productivity brought about by the revolution resulted in higher living standards for many people. With more food available, populations began to grow due to a decrease in mortality rates and an increase in birth rates. This population growth further stimulated demand for goods and services, contributing to economic expansion in other sectors.
Agriculture’s Role in Supporting Industry and Commerce
Agriculture not only fed the population but also supported the burgeoning industrial sector by providing raw materials and a labor force. As agricultural efficiency improved, fewer people were needed to work the land, which allowed a surplus labor force to migrate to urban areas and seek employment in factories. This transition helped fuel the growth of industry and commerce, setting the stage for the Industrial Revolution.
Commercial Revolution and the Age of Mercantilism
The prosperity in agriculture coincided with the Commercial Revolution and the age of mercantilism. European nations began to establish colonies around the world, creating global markets and trade networks that would dominate the economy for centuries. The colonies served as sources of raw materials and markets for finished products, creating a cycle of trade that enriched the home countries.
General Survey of Global Trade Expansion
European explorers discovered new lands, leading to the establishment of colonies across the globe. These colonies provided merchants and manufacturers with access to a variety of new products and raw materials. Finished goods from Europe were then sold in these colonial markets, creating a profitable system of trade. Europeans acquired spices, gems, porcelain, and cloth from Asia, among other goods, which were highly valued back in Europe.
Questions for UPSC
1. How did the Agricultural Revolution contribute to the demographic changes in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries?
2. In what ways did the Agricultural Revolution and the Commercial Revolution complement each other, and how did they collectively contribute to the rise of Western Europe?
3. Can the displacement of the poorer agricultural classes during the Agricultural Revolution be seen as an early example of the socio-economic repercussions of technological progress?