Which agricultural innovations accelerated the move towards industrialisation?

The agricultural innovations that accelerated industrialisation include the seed drill, crop rotation, and selective breeding.

The seed drill, invented by Jethro Tull in the early 18th century, was a significant innovation that accelerated the move towards industrialisation. Before its invention, seeds were scattered by hand, a method that was inefficient and wasteful. The seed drill allowed for seeds to be sown in neat rows at the correct depth, improving germination rates and crop yields. This increased productivity freed up labour for other tasks, contributing to the growth of other sectors, particularly manufacturing.

Another key agricultural innovation was the system of crop rotation. This was a method of farming where different crops were planted in the same field in a sequential season. This practice replaced the traditional three-field system, where one field was left fallow each year. Crop rotation improved soil fertility and increased crop yields, as different crops took different nutrients from the soil. This meant that fields could be used more intensively, increasing overall agricultural productivity. The surplus of food produced allowed for a growing urban population, providing the labour force necessary for industrialisation.

Selective breeding, also known as animal husbandry, was another important innovation. Robert Bakewell, an English farmer, pioneered this method in the 18th century. He selectively bred livestock for specific traits, such as size or meat quality, leading to significant improvements in livestock productivity. This not only increased the supply of meat and wool but also provided more manure, which was used as a natural fertiliser, further boosting crop yields.

The mechanisation of farming was another crucial factor. The invention of machinery such as the horse-drawn hoe and the threshing machine made farming more efficient, reducing the need for manual labour. This allowed for a shift in the labour force from agriculture to industry, a key factor in the process of industrialisation.

In conclusion, these agricultural innovations - the seed drill, crop rotation, selective breeding, and mechanisation - played a significant role in accelerating the move towards industrialisation. They increased agricultural productivity, creating a surplus of food and freeing up labour for other sectors, paving the way for the Industrial Revolution.