Industrial Revolution

In this episode of History 102, 'WhatIfAltHist' creator Rudyard Lynch and Erik Torenberg explore the origins, impacts, and global spread of the Industrial Revolution, from 18th century Britain to modern challenges.

Unleashing progress or Pandora's box? This episode presents a unique perspective, framing the Industrial Revolution as "the magic of kings" - a transformative force that granted humanity godlike powers while leaving our fundamental nature unchanged.

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This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.

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FOLLOW ON X:

@whatifalthist (Rudyard)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@SamoBurja (Samo)

@TurpentineMedia

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:23) Change of topic to Industrial Revolution

(01:16) Magic of kings vs magic of priests

(03:23) Pre-industrial vs post-industrial life

(06:16) The Unabomber's critique of industrial society

(09:58) Oversocialization and leftism

(15:55) Sponsor: Fundrise | WorkOS

(16:58) Historical origins of the Industrial Revolution

(21:23) Agricultural Revolution and its impacts

(25:58) Different models of industrialization

(30:23) Industrialization and European colonialism

(34:58) Post-industrial societies and their challenges

(38:23) Global spread of industrialization

(42:58) Positives and negatives of the Industrial Revolution

(47:01) Recommended books on the Industrial Revolution

(48:48) Wrap

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

"Why Nations Fail" by Daron Acemoglu and James A. Robinson 

"Tragedy and Hope" by Carroll Quigley

"Bloodlands" by Timothy Snyder

"Enlightenment Now" by Steven Pinker