Evolution of Technologies

Began with the developments of semiconductors in 

the 1960s and was further catalyzed by the spread 

of mainframe computing, personal computers, and 

the Internet in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s respec-

tively.

First Industrial Revolution

The first industrial revolu-

tion mechanized production, using water and steam 

power.

Second Industrial Revolution

The second industrial revolution created mass 

production with electricity and the assembly line.

Third Industrial Revolution

The third industrial revolution automated production 

with electronics and information technology. 

Fourth Industrial Revolution

The fourth industrial revolution began at the turn of the 

twenty-first century and is characterized by a much 

more ubiquitous and mobile internet; smaller, more 

powerful, and cheaper sensors; and AI, particularly 

machine learning.