Pre-industrial Revolution

The Pre-industrial Revolution period, prior to the late 18th century, was characterized by primarily agrarian societies where most people lived in rural areas and worked in agriculture, crafts, or trades. Technologies were simple, and goods were produced mainly by hand. Life was often dictated by seasons and local resources. Communities were small and tightly knit, with a focus on subsistence living. Social structures were rigid, and trade occurred on a local level. This era set the stage for the Industrial Revolution, which began to transform economies and societies with innovations in manufacturing, transportation, and urbanization.