What major change marked the beginning of the American Industrial Revolution?

The beginning of the American Industrial Revolution is often marked by the opening of the first industrial mill. This event signifies the transition from agrarian economies, where goods were primarily produced by handcraft, to industrial economies reliant on mechanized production. The establishment of mills, such as the famous Slater Mill in 1793, introduced new manufacturing techniques and machinery that allowed for mass production. This shift not only revolutionized the textile industry but also set the stage for the broader industrialization that would affect various sectors across the economy. The construction of mills facilitated increased production efficiency, job creation, and urbanization, fundamentally transforming American society and its economy during the 19th century.