The ‘Industrious’ Revolution

The term ‘Industrious’ Revolution was coined by Jan de Vries, an economic historian, to describe a transformative era in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. This period, which preceded the Industrial Revolution, witnessed notable shifts in work patterns and household economies. It marked a transition towards increased productivity and specialization within households. During this time, rural European households began dedicating more resources and time to market-oriented production, such as textile manufacturing, in addition to subsistence farming. The ‘Industrious’ Revolution was characterized by the emergence of cottage industries, where families collaborated within their homes to produce goods for the market. These developments laid the groundwork for subsequent industrialization and modernization in Europe.