1. Predominant Agricultural Economy: Britain's economy was largely agriculture-based. Most of the population lived in rural areas and relied on farming for their livelihood. Agricultural practices were relatively traditional, with limited mechanization and innovation.
2. Rural Craft Industries: Small-scale craft industries existed, such as weaving, pottery, and metalworking, often located in rural areas or small towns. These industries were characterized by individual craftsmanship and specialized skills passed down through generations.
3. Limited Trade: Trade was limited to local markets and specialized goods, with limited long-distance trade. Transportation infrastructure, such as roads and canals, was not well-developed, making it challenging to transport goods over long distances.
4. Mercantilism: The economic policies of the time were based on mercantilism, which focused on increasing a nation's wealth and power through international trade. This involved regulating imports and exports, imposing tariffs, and encouraging the establishment of colonies to acquire raw materials and new markets.
5. Growing Urbanization: Although the majority of the population lived in rural areas, urbanization was gradually increasing. Cities like London, Bristol, and Manchester were growing in size and significance as centers of trade and commerce.
6. Cottage Industry System: Before industrialization, many British workers engaged in what was known as the cottage industry system. Under this system, workers, often referred to as "cottage workers" or "outworkers," performed their crafts and labor from within their own homes. This system was particularly prevalent in textile manufacturing.
7. Limited Technology: Technology in Britain before the Industrial Revolution was relatively simple, as most work was done manually. Water and wind power were used for certain tasks, but steam power had not yet been widely adopted.
8. Guilds: Trade and manufacturing were regulated by guilds, which were associations of skilled workers in specific trades. Guilds set rules for apprenticeships, controlled standards of quality, and limited competition.
9. Enclosure Movement: The enclosure movement was taking place in Britain before the Industrial Revolution. This process involved the privatization of common lands, which had previously been used by the community for farming and other activities. The enclosure movement led to changes in land ownership and contributed to the migration of people from rural areas to urban areas.
10. Rising Middle Class: The Industrial Revolution was preceded by the growth of a middle class that was increasingly involved in mercantile and manufacturing activities. This middle class played a significant role in driving the changes that came with industrialization.