The key processes that have shaped the geography of modern Britain are rooted in the significant demographic, economic, technological and social transitions of the early 18th century, the impact of which was not fully diffused through the nation and its regions until the mid-20th century. This book provides students with an overview of Britain's development from a pre-modern to a modern economy and society. The book is structured in a way that makes its material particularly accessible, covering the period 1740 to 1950. For each period of history examined, the principal aspects of change in population, industry, the countryside and urban life are examined and regional examples are given in each case to support the general analysis.