Works in Progress Podcast How Henry VIII accidentally started the Industrial Revolution, with Anton Howes
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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.
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Industrial Revolution: Broad, Early Growth
- The Industrial Revolution marks the start of sustained, continuous technological economic growth across sectors.
- It began with gradual innovation acceleration from the 16th century, not sudden 18th-century steam engine breakthroughs.
Britain: The Early Innovation Leader
- By 1700, Britain was already the world's leading innovation hub, attracting spies and restricting artisan emigration.
- Britain was more industrialized and urbanized than anywhere else, setting the stage for the Industrial Revolution.
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.
