The 19th century, spanning from 1801 to 1900, was a period marked by significant social, political, and technological changes. It saw the rise of the Industrial Revolution, which transformed economies from agrarian to industrial, leading to urbanization and changes in labor. This era also witnessed the expansion of empires, particularly the British Empire, which became the largest empire in history. Culturally, the 19th century was rich with movements such as Romanticism and Realism in art and literature. Notable figures included Charles Dickens, who highlighted social issues, and Vincent van Gogh, who revolutionized painting. The century also experienced major events like the American Civil War and the unification of Germany and Italy.