Cotton Famine - Stuff That I Find Interesting

The video discusses the impact of the Industrial Revolution on Manchester's cotton industry, highlighting the overproduction of cotton before the American Civil War. The war led to a cotton shortage, causing unemployment and unrest in England. Despite hardships, Manchester workers supported Abraham Lincoln and the Union. Some British regions showed Confederate support, but Britain remained neutral. The Lancashire cotton famine prompted Britain to diversify its cotton sources. Historical strikes in Preston, observed by Karl Marx, are also covered.

What was the initial expectation about the duration of the American Civil War?

• It would be a short conflict.

• It would last for several decades.

• It would involve many European countries.

• It would not affect the cotton industry.

How did the workers of Manchester express their support for Abraham Lincoln?

• By sending a letter of support to Lincoln.

• By flying the Union flag in Manchester.

• By organizing protests against the Confederacy.

• By refusing to work in cotton mills.

What was one of the reasons some English people supported the Confederacy?

• They wanted to maintain neutrality.

• They were against the Union's policies.

• They had economic ties with the Confederacy.

• They believed it would lead to cheaper cotton.

What was Britain's strategy to prevent future cotton shortages?

• Diversifying cotton sources to Egypt and India.

• Investing in synthetic fibers.

• Relying solely on American cotton.

• Increasing domestic cotton production.

What did Karl Marx observe in Preston during the labor strikes?

• The strikes were peaceful and resolved quickly.

• Preston was becoming a revolutionary center.

• The workers were satisfied with their pay cuts.

• The government supported the workers' demands.