GGH3704
Assignment 2
Semester 2 2024
Due 6 September 2024
, The evolution of urban systems can be understood through three key phases of
development: the urbanization during the Industrial Revolution, the rise of the
modern city, and the emergence of the postmodern -global city. Each of these
phases has profoundly shaped contemporary urban environments, influencing their
structure, function, and the way people interact within these spaces.
1. Urbanization During the Industrial Revolution
The Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century, marked the first
significant phase of urbanization. Prior to this period, most people lived in rural
areas, and cities were relatively small and primarily served as centers of trade,
administration, and religious activity. However, the Industrial Revolution brought
about drastic changes in production processes, leading to the growth of factories and
the demand for labor in urban areas.
1. Rapid Urban Growth: As factories proliferated, people migrated from rural
areas to cities in search of work. This mass migration led to a rapid increase
in urban populations, creating new challenges for housing, sanitation, and
infrastructure. Cities like Manchester, London, and New York saw
unprecedented growth, becoming industrial powerhouses.
2. Urban Problems: The rapid influx of people into cities during this period led
to overcrowding, poor living conditions, and inadequate sanitation. Diseases
such as cholera spread quickly in the congested urban environments, and the
lack of clean water and proper waste disposal exacerbated public health
issues.
3. Economic and Social Changes: The concentration of labor and resources in
urban areas also transformed the economy and society. The rise of a factory-
based economy led to the growth of a new working class, while the wealth
generated by industrial activities fueled the expansion of a capitalist economy.
Social stratification became more pronounced, with a distinct divide between
the working class and the wealthy industrialists.