What was the Industrial Revolution?

The Industrial Revolution was a major period of change that began in the late 18th century, primarily in Britain, and later spread to other parts of the world. It marked the transition from agrarian and handcrafted economies to industrialized and machine-based manufacturing. This revolution introduced new technologies such as the steam engine, spinning jenny, and power loom, which dramatically increased production capacity and efficiency. The impact of the Industrial Revolution was profound and far-reaching. Economically, it led to the rise of factories, urbanization, and the growth of new industries like textiles, iron, and coal mining. Socially, it transformed daily life by creating new job opportunities but also led to challenges such as poor working conditions, child labor, and environmental pollution. Additionally, it spurred advancements in transportation and communication, including railways and the telegraph, which helped shape the modern world. Overall, the Industrial Revolution laid the foundation for the contemporary industrial society and significantly influenced economic development and social structures globally.