Essay, Research Paper: Industrial Revolution In Enlgand

Geographic features are often an important influence on specific events.
Throughout the world many people have been subject to certain actions due to their
geographical location. The Industrial Revolution in England, building the Suez Canal in
Egypt, and European efforts to colonize Africa are three of many examples.
The Industrial Revolution in England was helped brought about by its geographic
features. One geographic feature of Great Britain that contributed to this event is its
island status. The British Isles are separate from the main continent of Europe which
allowed the Britains to do more things on their own without being bothered by bordering
nations. They were able to spend more time and concentrate on industry because they
didn’t have to deal with the major land wars and other disputes that took place on the
main continent between bordering nations. Also England’s island status caused it to be a
very seafaring nation and a very imperialistic government. Due to the smallness of the
isles, the Britains constantly sent out ships to other parts of the world to make them part
of the empire and expand their industry while at the same time expanding its borders and
ability to claim natural resources.
The building of the Suez Canal in Egypt was another result of particular
geography. Since the times of Ramses II to the present day canal, waterways have been
built across the Isthmus of Suez in Egypt to connect the Red and Mediterranean Seas. It
was and still is an ideal spot to build such a canal because of its elevation and proportion.
The fact the isthmus is so narrow and fits perfectly between the seas a canal could’ve been
built.
European efforts to colonize Africa is a third example of geography influence.
“The scramble for Africa” was a result of natural resources and territory being necessary
for European industry. Africa was a very underdeveloped continent with vast amounts of
land and resources which made it very susceptible to outside influence. With countries
such as Britain who do not have an abundance of natural resources and territory on its
home isles, they saw the need and potential to colonize Africa and use its benefits.
Many events in history took place due to geography. Whether it would be to
expand ones borders or use of natural resources, etc. the need and potential and action is
present in history.


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