The Oxford Handbook of Industrial Archaeology

This comprehensive handbook examines the origins and evolution of industrialization from 18th century Europe to today, highlighting its environmental and social impacts while addressing critical debates surrounding the Anthropocene.

The Oxford Handbook of Industrial Archaeology offers a comprehensive examination of industrialization, tracing its origins from 18th century Europe to its pervasive presence in today's world. This volume features a series of international and multi-period chapters that delve into the complex factors that contributed to the rise of industrialization, including the extensive exploitation of natural resources. As it explores the environmental and social ramifications of this transformation, the book highlights the significant legacy that industrialization has left on our global society.

As the first major English-language text on Industrial Archaeology in a decade, this handbook arrives at a crucial moment when the effects of industrialization are being critically re-evaluated. Key discussions surrounding the Anthropocene—a proposed new geological epoch defined by human impact on the Earth—are woven throughout the text. The book addresses pressing issues such as climate change, urbanization, and labor relations, emphasizing the need to understand the historical context of these challenges in light of industrial development.

Through its diverse material framework, the handbook provides readers with insights into both the positive and negative consequences of industrialization. By examining the physical remnants of industrial activity alongside the human experiences it has shaped, the volume fosters a deeper understanding of our modern world and its industrial foundations. Ultimately, The Oxford Handbook of Industrial Archaeology serves as a valuable resource for those interested in the intricate interplay between industry, society, and the environment in the 21st century.