The major event that precipitated the advent of the modern era in Europe was the Industrial Revolution, which began in the late 18th century in Britain. This transformative period marked a shift from agrarian economies to industrialized and urban societies, characterized by advancements in technology, manufacturing, and transportation. Innovations such as the steam engine and mechanized textile production revolutionized industries and changed labor dynamics. The rise of factories led to urbanization, fundamentally altering social structures and economic systems. The Industrial Revolution laid the groundwork for contemporary society, affecting everything from global trade to the nature of work and everyday life.