The invention of the steam engine had a transformative impact on industry, propelling the Industrial Revolution. Developed in the 18th century, it revolutionized transportation and manufacturing processes by enabling mechanization. Factories shifted from manual labor to steam-powered machinery, increasing production efficiency and scale. This led to the rise of urban centers and changed labor dynamics, as people moved from rural areas to cities for factory jobs. The steam engine also improved transportation networks, including railroads and steamboats, facilitating trade and the movement of goods. Overall, it profoundly influenced economic structures and societal organization, marking a pivotal shift in history.