The Steam Engine & the Industrial Revolution

Steam power was one of the most significant developments of the Industrial Revolution (1760-1840) in Britain. First invented as a pump in the 1690s, a host of inventors tweaked designs and tinkered with machinery until an efficient and powerful alternative to muscle, water, and wind power attracted commercial users. Through the 19th century, the steam engine revolutionised industry and travel, bringing benefits and challenges in equal measure.