"Eric Hobsbawm explores the origin and dramatic course of the Industrial Revolution over two hundred and fifty years and its influence on Britain's social and political institutions and on society in general. He argues that the country's relative decline this century is due to its early and long-sustained beginnings as a world industrial power. " "Completely revised and updated, this second edition includes a new chapter on the events of the last twenty years and a new conclusion that discusses the shape of Britain today. "--BOOK JACKET.