The Industrial Revolution was a period of significant change that began in the late 18th century and continued into the 19th century. It marked the transition from hand production methods to machines, leading to the growth of factories and mass production. This shift greatly increased efficiency and productivity in various industries, including textiles and iron. The revolution also brought about major social changes, as people moved from rural areas to cities in search of work. Innovations such as the steam engine and the spinning jenny transformed how goods were produced and contributed to the rise of capitalism and modern economies.