The Industrial Revolution marks a transformative period in modern history when economies shifted from agrarian and handicraft-based to those dominated by industry and machine manufacturing. Beginning in Great Britain around 1760, it spread to other parts of the world, instigating changes in energy consumption, socioeconomics, and culture. The term was popularized by English economic historian Arnold Toynbee to describe Britain's economic development from 1760 to 1840.
The First Industrial Revolution, primarily confined to Britain, spanned from the mid-18th century to around 1830. The Second Industrial Revolution occurred from the mid-19th century until the early 20th century, expanding to continental Europe, North America, and Japan. Key features included the use of new materials like iron and steel, new energy sources such as coal, steam, electricity, and petroleum, and inventions like the spinning jenny and power loom. These advancements led to the factory system, increased division of labor, and significant developments in transportation and communication, including the steam locomotive, steamship, automobile, telegraph, and radio. The rise in coal consumption also played a role as deeper coal mines needed effective ways to pump out water.
