Most important ideas/trends/events of the 19th century - Essay Example

Lecturer Essay # The most important ideas, events and trends of the 19th Century The second Industrial Revolution The second industrial revolution, which started around 1870, was a major breakthrough in major fields during the 19th century. As noted in the article by Lauren Axelrod (2014), this revolution led to the creation of new products, bigger factories and larger markets. This revolution is considered to be one of technology, especially in the area of metals, electricity and chemicals. Iron, which was previously the main metal in use, was replaced by steel.

More efficient machines and railroads were created. Germany, which is considered the leader in the second industrial revolution, was engaging in the production of new chemicals for paper and soap manufacture. In addition, new fertilizers for use in farms were produced. During the first industrial revolution, coal was the min source of power. However, this was replaced with electricity. The discovery of oil allowed for the use of airplanes, automobiles and water vessels. There was an increase in production volumes due to better machinery and production methods, and these expanded markets.

Technical advances were dispersed across various geographical regions, unlike was the case during the first revolution where everything was concentrated in Brittan. The second industrial revolution was important in satisfying the needs of the increasing population at the time. Wages and standards of living were greatly improved. The Gothic Revival The Gothic Revival was a major event of the 19th century that changed the people’s tastes for buildings. This was a shift from the traditional building designs that were mainly inspired by classical styles from Greece and Rome.

This style was used as a reflection of the public’s taste in buildings inspired by the medieval design. During this period, the Gothic Revival style was promoted as the best design for rural settings. It was characterized by highly complex and irregular shapes, which made it fit well in the rural areas. As a result, many religious, domestic and civic buildings were built using this style. As highlighted in the article in the Victoria and Albert Museum (2011), the buildings were characterized by pointed arches, decorative patterns and steep roofs.

In addition, the furniture was characterized by high detailed paintings. Gothic script was also included in the design and construction of the Gothic Revival objects. The Gothic Revival style is termed as the architectural manifestation of the Romanticism where the medieval period was celebrated. This makes it an important event in the 19th century history. An example of a building in this style is the Palace of Westminster which was constructed between 1837 and 1867. It is the largest Gothic Revival building.

The Theory of Evolution During the 19th century, Charles Darwin proposed the theory of Evolution. According to his theory, all life can be traced back to a single ancestor. For instance, He argued that all humans developed from an ape-like creature. The theory has two major components. First, there is the idea of natural selection in which living things are sorted based on their ability to adapt to their environment. As creatures interact with the environment, the desired characteristics are enhanced while the less useful are suppressed.

Secondly, the nature of inheritance is also a major component of the theory. This refers to the manner in which genes are altered and transferred from one population to another, and how species end up drifting apart. This theory was particularly important in the 19th century because it helped change scientific thinking and reasoning. The theory opened avenues for discussion on aspects such as genes, mutations and the general history of the earth. Works CitedAxelrod, Lauren. “The Second Industrial Revolution During the 19th Century.” 2014. Knoji.

Web < https://history.knoji.com/the-second-industrial-revolution-during-the-19th- century/ > 19 Oct. 2014.The Conversation. Explainer: Theory Of Evolution. N.p., 2011. Web < http://theconversation.com/explainer-theory-of-evolution-2276 >. 19 Oct. 2014.Victoria and Albert Museum. Style Guide: Gothic Revival. N.p., 2014. Web < http://www.vam.ac.uk/content/articles/s/style-guide-gothic-revival/ >. 19 Oct. 2014.