The spinning jenny and steam power may be the textbook markers of the Industrial Revolution – but Edmond Smith argues the story starts earlier, and runs much deeper. In this conversation with Elinor Evans, he traces the threads of industrialisation from sheep pastures to global markets, revealing how British economic power was built on innovation – but also empire, slavery, and ruthless ambition.

-----

GO BEYOND THE PODCAST

Curious to go beyond what you learned in the school classroom? Find out more about the Industrial Revolution at https://bit.ly/49H4YMe2

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices