The First Industrial Revolution began in Britain around the year 1760 and lasted until about 1840. This transformative period marked a shift from agrarian economies to industrialized and urban ones, characterized by innovations in machinery, manufacturing, and transportation. Key developments included the steam engine, mechanization of textile production, and the expansion of the iron and coal industries. The revolution led to significant social, economic, and environmental changes, such as urbanization, the growth of factory jobs, and improved production capacity. It laid the groundwork for technological advancements that would continue into the Second Industrial Revolution and shape modern society.