The Steam Engine (1712)

The steam engine powered the Industrial Revolution, with James Watt's 1776 design boosting efficiency by 75% compared to Newcomen's 1712 version. By 1800, over 2,500 Watt engines were in use, mechanizing textiles and railways, and shifting global economic power from land to industry. It is 40% more responsible for Britain's 19th-century GDP growth than any other single invention, creating the modern working class and urbanizing Europe.