The Industrial Revolution brought into being a distinct world, a world of greater affluence, longevity and mobility, an urban rather than a rural world. But the great surge of economic growth was balanced against severe constraints on the opportunities for expansion, revealing an intriguing paradox. This book, published to considerable critical acclaim, explores the paradox and attempts to provide a distinct model' of the changes that comprised the industrial revolution.

‘… an intellectual breakthrough which, like it or not, will influence all our thinking in the future … Brief though it is, the book makes a profound impression. Much research will be necessary to extend and modify it, but here undoubtedly is a major contribution of our time.’

Sidney Pollard Source: Economic History Review

‘General history is often interesting, but rarely important and searching. Continuity, Chance and Change succeeds on all three counts.’

Julian Hoppit Source: The Times Higher Education Supplement