Works in Progress Podcast How Henry VIII accidentally started the Industrial Revolution, with Anton Howes
49 snips
Jul 29, 2025 Historian Anton Howes, known for his Age of Invention Substack, dives into the surprising origins of the Industrial Revolution, born from the chaos of Henry VIII’s England. He reveals how mismanagement and inflation during Henry's reign slumped Britain into economic despair. Yet, a savvy group of innovators turned the tide. From advancements in infrastructure to the role of currency debasement, Howes illustrates how human agency, not mere luck, propelled Britain into an era of unprecedented growth and change.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Superior Roads Boost Growth
- England's well-maintained roads and efficient turnpike system enabled unusually fast, continuous wagon travel.
- This infrastructure boosted commerce and communication, contributing broadly to economic growth.
Coal's Role in Land and Population
- Coal use in England from the 1580s freed land from fuel gathering to agriculture, increasing food and horse fodder.
- This resulted in muscle abundance with larger populations and widespread horse ownership, vital for industry.
Population Growth Drives Economy
- England's population stagnated post-Black Death but then grew rapidly from late 16th century onward, surpassing pre-plague levels.
- This demographic growth happened alongside rising living standards supported by agriculture and trade improvements.
