What was the Industrial Revolution?

The Industrial Revolution was a major period of transformation that began in the late 18th century and continued into the 19th century, primarily starting in Britain before spreading to other parts of the world. It marked the transition from agrarian economies based largely on manual labor and handcrafts to industrialized and mechanized systems of production. This shift was driven by new inventions, technological innovations, and changes in energy use, such as the development of the steam engine, mechanized textile machinery, and advances in metallurgy. The impact of the Industrial Revolution on society was profound. It led to the growth of factories and urban centers as people moved from rural areas to cities in search of work. This urbanization changed social structures, creating a new working class and altering traditional family roles. Economically, it boosted productivity and created new industries, contributing to increased wealth and the rise of capitalism. However, it also brought challenges such as poor working conditions, child labor, and environmental pollution. Overall, the Industrial Revolution laid the foundation for the modern industrialized world and reshaped nearly every aspect of daily life.