What was the primary focus of the Second Industrial Revolution?

The primary focus of the Second Industrial Revolution, which took place approximately from the late 19th century into the early 20th century, was indeed on heavy industry and machinery production. This period marked a significant shift from the earlier phase of industrialization that emphasized textiles and agriculture.

The Second Industrial Revolution was characterized by advancements in steel production, chemical processes, and electricity, fundamentally transforming industries such as manufacturing and transportation. Innovations such as the Bessemer process for steel making allowed for the mass production of steel, essential for constructing railroads, buildings, and machinery. This industrial growth facilitated the rise of large factories and the increased use of mechanization, leading to greater efficiency and productivity in numerous sectors.

While transportation and communications also saw significant advancements during this period—like the expansion of railroads and the development of the telegraph and telephone—these were often aspects that supported the overarching focus on heavy industry and machinery. Craftsmanship and manual labor dominated earlier industrial phases, but the Second Industrial Revolution represented a departure towards a mechanized and industrialized economy. Therefore, the emphasis on heavy industry and the production of machinery was central to understanding the transformative economic landscape of this era.