Industrial Revolution

The Industrial Revolution (c. 18th–19th centuries) was the transition from an agricultural- to a manufacturing-based economy. It led to widespread mechanization and urbanization, which greatly improved people's standard of living. In doing so, the Industrial Revolution caused sweeping socio-economic changes across Europe and around the world.

The Industrial Revolution was a major turning point in history. It marked the transition from rural, agricultural-based societies to industrialized, urban ones. Britain was key to this transition. By the 19th century, Britain was a major player in industrial development, and it held large reserves of coal and iron. Moreover, Britain controlled many overseas colonies, which gave it the resources it needed to conduct industrialization on a large scale.

From 1600 to 1800, developments...