The Industrial Revolution — Life in the UK Test practice questions
These practice questions cover The Industrial Revolution, part of the A long and illustrious history chapter of the official handbook, Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents. The correct answer and a clear explanation sit under every question.
Practice questions
What was the biggest source of employment in Britain before the 18th century?
- insurance
- shipbuilding
- ✓ agriculture — Correct answer
- banking
Before the 18th century, agriculture was the biggest source of employment in Britain. Many people also worked in cottage industries from home.
What was needed to power the new factories?
- Sea water and wind
- Taxes on imported grain
- ✓ Coal and other raw materials — Correct answer
- Only wool and silk
Coal and other raw materials powered the new factories. This helped increase production, and many people moved from the countryside to work in mining and manufacturing.
What helped the progress of the Industrial Revolution, along with new ideas and machinery?
- the Welsh dragon
- the Corn Laws
- ✓ steam power — Correct answer
- gold mining
The Industrial Revolution developed through machinery and steam power. The same period also saw more efficient production and increased output.
What helped Britain to industrialise on a large scale?
- The decline of coal mining
- ✓ The development of machinery and the use of steam power — Correct answer
- A ban on factories
- The expansion of canals and better transport links
Britain industrialised on a large scale because machinery developed and steam power was used. These changes made production faster and helped factories produce more goods.