Industrial history refers to the development and transformation of industries from manual labor to mechanized production. This shift began in the late 18th century with the Industrial Revolution, which introduced innovations like the steam engine and power looms. These advancements significantly increased productivity and changed the way goods were manufactured. As industries grew, urbanization followed, with people moving to cities for work. Key figures, such as James Watt and Henry Ford, played crucial roles in advancing industrial techniques. Over time, this evolution led to the establishment of modern economies and the global trade networks we see today.