Britain's Industrial Revolution was propelled by more than just factories; the British Canal System played a vital role. This book examines how a network of man-made waterways reshaped Britain's economic landscape, facilitating the distribution of raw materials and finished goods before railways dominated.
The "canal mania" period saw rapid expansion, driven by the Bridgewater Canal's success. Efficient transportation became a catalyst for industrial growth, enabling cost-effective movement of bulk goods and unlocking economic expansion.
The book delves into the engineering feats of canal construction, detailing locks, tunnels, and aqueducts. It explores the economic impact on industries like coal mining and textiles, using tonnage records and cost analyses to quantify the waterways' influence.
By examining the pre-industrial transport limitations and the canals' subsequent decline with railway competition, the book provides a comprehensive view. Each chapter progresses chronologically, from the early canals to their lasting legacy and modern recreational use.
