Early steam engine development

Early steam engine development began in the 17th century, primarily driven by the need for efficient pumping in mines. Key pioneers like Thomas Newcomen created the atmospheric steam engine in the early 1700s, using steam to generate power by creating a vacuum. James Watt improved upon this design in the late 1700s, introducing a separate condenser, which made engines more efficient and practical for various applications. These innovations laid the foundation for the Industrial Revolution, revolutionizing transportation and manufacturing by enabling factories and locomotives to operate with powerful, reliable machinery.