What is a defining characteristic of the factory system?

The defining characteristic of the factory system is mass production with machines. This system revolutionized the way goods were manufactured during the Industrial Revolution by introducing mechanization that enabled the production of large quantities of products in a more efficient and consistent manner. Factories typically housed specialized machines that could perform tasks faster and with greater precision than hand production methods. This shift from artisanal crafting to machine-based production not only increased output but also reduced costs, allowing for lower prices and greater availability of goods.

The establishment of factories led to significant changes in labor dynamics as well; instead of skilled artisans working individually or in small groups, factory workers often performed repetitive tasks in a larger workforce setting, which further contributed to the speed and scale of production. This transformation formed the foundation of modern manufacturing and is a key reason for the economic and social changes seen during and after the Industrial Revolution.