The Changing Face of Europe at the Turn of the Century

 

Most countries in Western Europe were ruled by liberal governments who welcomed social and economic change (Britain, Germany, France, and Netherlands).  The European model for industry and colonial expansion also created change in Europe.  In general, Europeans were living a much better life than they had in the past.  The exception to this was Russia.  Crops were easier to cultivate and starvation was not as big an issue, due to the agricultural revolution, a spin off of the Industrial Revolution.

 

More people were employed in different industries however, increases in production and the factory process kept many people un or under employed.  With the gradual growth of the middle class, people had more disposable income to spend and there was an increase in consumer buying of domestic products.  Improvements in transportation made sea travel safer and efficient.  Improvements in rail systems enabled freight to move quickly around Europe very cheaply.  The invention of the motor car was also a new revolution in transportation that also allowed families more time for leisurely pursuit.

 

In terms of communication, the invention of radios and the extensive use of the telegraph allowed information to travel faster.  Improvements in literacy and the printing process allowed greater volumes of books and newspapers to be read.  This allowed people to become acquainted with global issues; new developments in radar and the detection of enemies.   The invention of the telephone further revolutionized communication.

 

Medical advancements allowed people a greater chance of living.  For example new vaccines for diseases, new anesthetics allowed then to endure pain during surgery.  The sterilization of surgical tools, and blood transfusions started to take place.

 

Social and Economic Change

Industrial Revolution

  • Middle Class
  • Consumer Buying
  • Disposable Income
  • More time for leisure

 

Transport

  • Motor vehicles, slowly replacing horses

 

Communication

  • Telegraph
  • Publishing – Literacy
  • Telephone
  • Sonar
  • Radar

 

Medial Advances

  • Vaccines
  • Anesthetics
  • Sterilization
  • Blood transfusions