The significant technological advancement that emerged from the Industrial Revolution was the development of the steam engine. Invented and improved by figures like James Watt, the steam engine revolutionized industries by providing a reliable power source beyond human and animal labor. It facilitated the growth of railroads and factories, enabling mass production and efficient transportation of goods. This advancement not only transformed the economic landscape but also significantly impacted society by promoting urbanization and changing labor patterns, ultimately leading to a profound shift in lifestyle and work dynamics during the 19th century.