Because of the large number of different actions carried out by a hand loom weaver, it was difficult to develop a powered loom for weaving cloth, and the first power looms were uneconomical. In addition, a way to stop the power if the thread broke had to be developed. Once perfected, this feature allowed one weaver to watch several operating looms at once.
The labor savings and profits to the mill owners resulting from power looms and other new industrial machinery threatened workers’ livelihood and resulted in violent protests. In 1811, for example, the Luddites destroyed industrial machines in England.
In spite of resistance, the number of operating power looms in Britain grew from 2400 to 14,150 from 1813 to 1820. By 1822 one model, Robert's loom, was the most widely used in England. By mid-century efficient power looms had displaced hand loom weaving for both cotton and worsted cloth.
Farmers improve Cotton plantations to Level III. Ranchers improve Wool farms to Level III. Both will produce four units per turn.
