The Industrial Revolution (contextual influence)

The Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century, marked a significant shift from agrarian economies to industrialized ones, primarily in Europe and America. Advances in technology, such as the steam engine and machinery, transformed manufacturing processes and increased production efficiency. This period also saw urbanization, as people moved to cities for factory work. Social structures changed, with the rise of the working and middle classes, while economic theories like capitalism emerged. The resulting societal shifts led to both progress and challenges, including labor rights issues and environmental impacts, shaping modern economies and lifestyles.