The Victorian era refers to the period of Queen Victoria's reign in the United Kingdom from 1837 to 1901. This time was marked by significant industrial, cultural, and scientific advancements, as well as the expansion of the British Empire. The era saw the rise of the middle class and changes in social norms, including the roles of women and children in society. During the Victorian era, literature flourished with notable authors like Charles Dickens and Charlotte Brontë. The period also witnessed the development of new technologies, such as the steam engine and the telegraph, which transformed communication and transportation. Overall, the Victorian era was a time of great change and progress.