What ideas come to mind when you hear the word revolution? The word revolution is commonly used in a political context, here, however, it is used in combination with industry. What do you think are the reasons for using such a powerful word as revolution to define this historical event?
Before you start listening to the interview with Jeff, the taxi driver and history teacher, you should make sure that you are familiar with what the Industrial Revolution was and how it all started in Britain and Manchester. Due to its abundant coal reserves and its location by the river Mersey, the city soon became the hub of the Industrial Revolution.
Manchester Ind. Rev
Tasks and Activities
Comprehension
Listen to the interview. Copy the table into your text editor. What does Jeff tell you about the listed issues? Provide your key words and explanations in the link collection.
| Textiles produced in the area | |
| Sources of power | |
| Steam Engine | |
| Population | |
| Migration | |
| Infant mortality | |
| Child labour | |
| Working conditions | |
| Show rooms | |
| Historical traces | |
| Global trade | |
Present-day attitudes to local history |
Oral
Look at the pictures. Choose one of the pictures and present its "story" in the class.