The 19th century in Britain was a time of significant change and development. It was marked by the Industrial Revolution, which transformed the economy from agriculture-based to industrial and manufacturing. Cities grew rapidly as people moved from rural areas to urban centers in search of work, leading to the rise of factories and new technologies. This period also saw important social and political changes, including the expansion of the British Empire and movements for reform. Key figures like Queen Victoria symbolized the era, while events such as the Chartist movement aimed to improve workers' rights and expand voting access.